Tuna Salad with Egg and Potato (Spain)

Spain, like the rest of the Mediterranean countries, has very hot summers, with 36 °C (97 F) being the average temperature in some regions. Not only are different clothes needed for this type of heat, but even the food has to be modified.  Fresh, cool preparations such as salads and drinks are essential.  Tuna salad with egg, potato and crunchy vegetables is one of my favorite summer recipes.

Fruits and vegetables are refreshing, and the Spanish take advantage of consuming them in large quantities, because they are deprived of them all winter since they become more expensive.  Additionally, in the winter hot soups and pottages are much tastier.

This country salad, also known as a summer salad, is a simple and perfect preparation for dinner, but it is also a common tapa (small plate) dish that is served with many other tapa dishes along with bread, olives, beer and wine.  Throughout the country it is prepared similarly, it maintains some common ingredients and others that vary significantly from one region to another and the preference of the person who prepares it. The common ingredients are usually potatoes (the star of the plate), fish (canned tuna or Mahi-mahi) and boiled egg. Dressings and vegetables vary greatly from one region to another. The most frequent are: tomatoes, red peppers, green peppers, onions, and beans. Others might prepare the country salad with mushrooms or leafy greens such as lettuce or spinach.

This tuna salad with egg and potato recipe I am sharing with you is the most traditional version of this salad in my family.  It is best made when the ingredients are freshest with sweet, juicy tomatoes and crisp, perfectly ripe peppers.  The very best, of course, is when you get most of your ingredients from your own backyard or purchase from a local farm stand.

Other tapas dishes from Spain:

Spanish Tortilla (Egg and Potato Omelet)

Easy Seafood Paella

Sautéed Chorizo with Red Wine

Ham and Chees