Insalata Pantesca : Sicilian Potato Salad. A light recipe for summer.

Insalata Pantesca Sicilian Potato Salad

A refreshing potato salad from the island of Pantelleria, combining tender potatoes with briny olives, capers, and fresh basil. A taste of Sicilian summer. A light and refreshing recipe for hot days.

Serves: 4 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients

  • 800 g (1.75 lb) potatoes, waxy variety
  • 2 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks
  • 100 g (3.5 oz) black olives (Gaeta or Taggiasca), pitted
  • 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • A handful of fresh basil leaves
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Cook the potatoes: Boil the potatoes whole, skin-on, in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes). Drain and let cool slightly.
  2. Cut: Peel and cut the potatoes into thick slices or chunks while still warm.
  3. Combine: In a large bowl, mix the potatoes with the tomatoes, olives, capers, and red onion.
  4. Dress: Whisk the olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper together, then pour over the salad. Toss gently.
  5. Finish: Tear the basil leaves over the top just before serving. Add a pinch of oregano if desired.
  6. Serve: Best enjoyed warm or at room temperature, letting the flavours mingle for 10–15 minutes before serving.

Tip: This salad tastes even better the next day, once the potatoes have fully absorbed the dressing. It can be served with fish, eggs or a steak.

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