Sałatka Gościnna (Guest Salad)

Sałatka Gościnna is a popular Polish salad often served at special occasions and gatherings. Its name, “Guest Salad,” reflects its role as a delightful and impressive dish for guests. Combining a mix of fresh vegetables, eggs, and pickled ingredients, this salad is both colorful and flavorful. It is known for being easy to prepare and can be served as an appetizer or a side dish.

Ingredients:

4 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and diced
3 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
1 cup of boiled and diced carrots
1 cup of peas, cooked
2 pickled cucumbers, diced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup of mayonnaise
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the boiled and diced potatoes, carrots, peas, pickled cucumbers, and chopped onion.
Add the hard-boiled eggs to the mixture and gently stir to combine.
Add mayonnaise to the salad and mix thoroughly until everything is well coated.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to preference.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an added touch of color.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend.
Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve Sałatka Gościnna chilled for the best flavor. It pairs well with meats, such as roast chicken or pork.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Ensure the salad is covered to prevent it from drying out.
If the salad becomes too dry after storage, you can add a little extra mayonnaise to refresh it before serving.
Variations:

For a creamier texture, substitute half of the mayonnaise with sour cream.
Add some finely chopped fresh dill to the salad for a fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the pickles.
To give the salad a twist, try adding some grated cheese or chopped cooked ham.