Sicilian Pantesca Salad with Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Olives

Pantesca Salad Recipe
Category: Salads
Serves: 4

This Pantesca Salad, a classic Sicilian dish, brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients that perfectly capture the flavors of the Mediterranean. With the simplicity of boiled potatoes, juicy cherry tomatoes, salty capers, green olives, and tangy red onions, all enhanced by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and vinegar, this salad is an absolute treat. Ideal for a light lunch, a side dish for your main meals, or as part of an antipasti spread, this recipe brings the essence of Sicily right to your table.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes. Do not peel them as the skin helps retain the flavor. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then lower the heat and cook the potatoes for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. When they are cool enough to handle, cut them into bite-sized chunks.

2. Prepare the Tomatoes:
   Rinse the cherry tomatoes under cold water. Cut each tomato in half, removing any stems and discarding them.

3. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, combine the chopped potatoes, halved tomatoes, green olives, and salted capers. Slice the red onion into thin rings and add them to the bowl.

4. Season the Salad:
   Tear fresh basil leaves into small pieces and add them to the mixture. Season the salad with oregano, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Dress the Salad:
   Drizzle the white wine vinegar over the ingredients in the bowl. Follow with a generous pour of extra virgin olive oil, just enough to coat everything evenly. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

6. Final Touches:
   Give the salad a final taste, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips for Perfecting Your Pantesca Salad:

• Serving Suggestion: This salad can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled. If you are preparing it in advance, store it in the fridge for a couple of hours before serving to let the flavors develop even further.

• Potatoes: For an added touch, try using waxy potatoes such as Yukon Gold for a smoother texture when boiled, or keep it traditional with the variety you have on hand.

• Vinegar Alternative: While white wine vinegar is traditional, you can experiment with a splash of red wine vinegar for a bolder taste or even a bit of balsamic vinegar for a richer sweetness.

This Pantesca Salad is a delightful reflection of Sicilian culinary traditions, offering a blend of textures and flavors that transport you straight to the Mediterranean. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal with family. The key to this recipe lies in the balance of fresh, quality ingredients, which makes it a staple in every home. Enjoy!