Dominican Potato Salad Recipe

This Dominican Potato Salad is a classic dish often enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations. It features a creamy dressing and a combination of potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and chopped into 1/2-inch chunks)
3/4 lbs carrots (peeled and chopped into 1/4-inch chunks)
3 large eggs
1/2 small red onion (finely chopped)
3/4 cup to 1 cup mayonnaise (adjust to your preference)
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
Chopped cilantro (for garnishing)

Instructions

Boil the Vegetables and Eggs:

In a large pot, bring lightly salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Boil for about 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

Prepare an Ice Bath:

While the vegetables are boiling, prepare an ice bath for the eggs. Once the eggs are cooked, transfer them to the ice bath to cool for about 10 minutes before peeling and chopping.

Mix the Dressing:

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and salt. Mix well.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked potatoes, carrots, finely chopped red onion, and chopped eggs. Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the top and gently toss until everything is well coated.

Garnish and Chill:

Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve:

Serve chilled as a side dish at your next gathering!

Tips

You can customize this salad by adding other ingredients such as peas, corn, or diced bell peppers.
For a twist, consider adding diced apples or pickles for extra flavor.
This salad can be made a day in advance; just keep it refrigerated until serving.

Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Dominican Potato Salad?

Yes, you can add various vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of the potato salad. Some great options include:

Peas: For sweetness and color.
Corn: Adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
Bell Peppers: Diced for extra crunch and flavor.
Beets: For color and a slightly sweet taste, often seen in variations like Ensalada Rusa.

How Can I Make the Potato Salad More Flavorful Without Adding Too Many Ingredients?

To enhance the flavor of your potato salad without complicating the recipe, consider:

Seasoning While Hot: Sprinkle salt and vinegar over the potatoes and carrots immediately after draining while they are still warm. This helps them absorb more flavor.
Using Quality Mayonnaise: Opt for a high-quality mayonnaise or homemade mayo for better taste.
Adding Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness without overwhelming the dish.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Dominican Potato Salad?

Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Overcooking Vegetables: Ensure that potatoes and carrots are tender but not mushy. They should hold their shape when mixed.
Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season while the vegetables are warm can lead to blandness. Always season immediately after cooking.
Skipping the Chill Time: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator helps meld flavors, so don’t skip this step.

Enjoy this delicious Dominican Potato Salad as a comforting addition to your meals!