Are you craving a light, refreshing, and incredibly flavorful meal? Look no further than this delightful Bacalao Salad, a true taste of Italy that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a sophisticated lunch, or a delightful addition to your next gathering. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and tastes, combining the delicate saltiness of bacalao (salt cod) with the vibrant freshness of Mediterranean vegetables. This healthy meal is also incredibly versatile, allowing for customization to your liking. Let's dive into this simple yet delicious recipe!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Ingredients
This Bacalao Salad recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless cod fillets, soaked in cold water for at least 24 hours (or use pre-soaked bacalao)
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Effortless Homemade Cooking
Follow these easy steps to create this delicious Bacalao Salad:
-
Prepare the Cod: If using unsalted cod, skip this step. If using salt cod, ensure it's been thoroughly soaked to remove excess salt. Rinse well and pat dry. Gently flake the cod into bite-sized pieces.
-
Whisk the Dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, parsley, and dill. Season generously with salt and pepper.
-
Combine the Ingredients: Add the flaked cod, Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and capers to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for the best taste! Serve chilled, ideally with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Variations for the Best Bacalao Salad
- Soaking the Cod: Soaking the salt cod is essential to remove excess salt. Change the water several times during the soaking process for optimal results.
- Adjust the Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of olive oil and red wine vinegar to your liking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add Vegetables: Experiment with adding other vegetables, such as bell peppers, artichoke hearts, or cucumbers, to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Different Herbs: Fresh oregano or basil can be substituted for some or all of the parsley and dill.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate)
This Bacalao Salad offers a healthy and balanced meal. Nutritional information will vary slightly based on the specific ingredients used. Approximate values per serving are:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This Bacalao Salad recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Its simple preparation and delicious taste make it a winner for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings. Enjoy this delicious taste of Italy!