Ensalada de Espirales
Espirales Salad Recipe from Dominican Republic
Introduction
Ensalada de Espirales is a delicious and colorful pasta salad that is popular in many Latin American countries. This refreshing dish is perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a side dish for any meal.
History
Ensalada de Espirales has its origins in Latin American cuisine, where pasta salads are a common dish served at gatherings and celebrations. The combination of pasta, vegetables, and mayonnaise creates a creamy and flavorful salad that is loved by many.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Boil the pasta until it is tender (it should be softer than al dente).
- In a separate pot, boil the carrots and eggs.
- Peel the carrots and chop them into small cubes.
- Chop the eggs into small cubes as well.
- Mix in the remaining ingredients, and adjust the salt according to taste.
Variations
- Add diced ham or cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers or olives for added flavor.
- Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version of the salad.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the pasta until it is tender, but not mushy.
- Boil the carrots and eggs separately to ensure they are cooked to perfection.
- Adjust the salt according to your taste preferences.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ensalada de Espirales as a side dish with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a light lunch on its own.
Cooking Techniques
Boil the pasta, carrots, and eggs separately to ensure they are cooked to the right consistency.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, such as penne or bowtie pasta. Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking.
Make Ahead Tips
Ensalada de Espirales can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the salad with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve Ensalada de Espirales with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, let the salad come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 280 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 35g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 12g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 6g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Ensalada de Espirales is a good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Iron.
Alergens
Contains eggs and mayonnaise. May contain gluten.
Summary
Ensalada de Espirales is a balanced dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Ensalada de Espirales is a delicious and versatile pasta salad that is perfect for any occasion. With its colorful vegetables, creamy dressing, and satisfying pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Ensalada de Espirales. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her quaint little kitchen. Maria was known for her delicious and innovative recipes, and that day was no exception.
As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I could smell the fragrant herbs and spices wafting through the air. Maria had a mischievous twinkle in her eye as she beckoned me over to the stove. She handed me a wooden spoon and instructed me to stir the pot of boiling water.
"Trust me, you're going to love this dish," she said with a sly smile.
I watched in amazement as Maria expertly tossed the spiral-shaped pasta into the pot of boiling water. She explained that the pasta would cook quickly and retain its shape, making it perfect for salads.
As the pasta cooked, Maria started chopping up fresh vegetables and herbs. She added tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and bell peppers to a large bowl and tossed them together with a simple vinaigrette dressing. The colors of the vegetables popped against the white pasta, creating a beautiful and vibrant dish.
Once the pasta was cooked al dente, Maria drained it and rinsed it under cold water to stop the cooking process. She then added the pasta to the bowl of vegetables and gently tossed everything together. The aroma that wafted up from the bowl was mouth-watering.
I couldn't wait to try a bite, and when I did, I was hooked. The combination of fresh vegetables, tangy vinaigrette, and perfectly cooked pasta was a revelation. Maria had truly outdone herself with this recipe.
I begged Maria to share the recipe with me, and she happily obliged. She explained that she had learned to make Ensalada de Espirales from her grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. The recipe had become a family favorite, and Maria was thrilled to share it with me.
I scribbled down the ingredients and instructions in my notebook, making sure to capture every detail. Maria laughed at my enthusiasm and promised that I would be making this dish for years to come.
And she was right. From that day on, Ensalada de Espirales became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings, always receiving rave reviews from everyone who tried it.
Over the years, I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different vegetables, herbs, and dressings. But the essence of Maria's original recipe remains the same – fresh, vibrant, and utterly delicious.
As I stand in my own kitchen now, preparing a batch of Ensalada de Espirales for a family barbecue, I can't help but think back to that fateful day with Maria. Her generosity in sharing this recipe with me has brought so much joy and flavor into my life.
I am grateful for the friendships that have enriched my culinary journey, and for the recipes that have been passed down through generations. Ensalada de Espirales will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the simple pleasures of good food and good company.
And as I take a bite of the salad, savoring the flavors that burst in my mouth, I can't help but smile. This recipe is more than just a dish – it is a connection to the past, a celebration of tradition, and a testament to the power of sharing food with loved ones.
I raise my fork to the sky, toasting Maria and all the grandmothers who have passed down their recipes through the ages. Thank you for bringing this delicious Ensalada de Espirales into my life. It will forever be a cherished part of my culinary repertoire.
Categories
| Carrot Recipes | Corn Recipes | Dominican Recipes | Dominican Salads | Macaroni Recipes | Mayonnaise Recipes | Pea Recipes | Red Onion Recipes |