Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones Recipe: Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones is a delightful dish that brings together the wonderful flavors of shrimp and potatoes. This recipe showcases a perfect blend of creamy mayonnaise, crunchy vegetables, and tender shrimp, making it a hit at any gathering. I remember trying this dish for the first time and being amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a tasty result.
What I love about this salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients, like olives or hard-boiled eggs. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive occasion, this ensalada de papas con camarones always impresses.
Join me as I share my favorite recipe for this Ecuadorian classic. It’s not just about the ingredients—it’s about creating something special that everyone will enjoy. I can’t wait for you to taste it!
Essential Ingredients
In making the Ecuadorian Ensalada de Papas con Camarones, several key ingredients stand out. They not only contribute to the flavor but also to the texture and enjoyment of the dish. Each ingredient plays a specific role that makes this salad unique and delicious.
The Role of Camarones
Shrimp, or camarones, are the star ingredient in this salad. They add a rich, seafood flavor that complements the other elements perfectly.
When choosing shrimp, I prefer large, peeled and deveined ones for the best taste. Cooking them just right is key—too long can make them tough, while too little can leave them raw. A quick boil in salted water usually does the trick. Once cooked, I let them cool before adding them to the salad. Their pink color and tender texture make each bite delightful.
Potatoes: The Base of the Salad
Potatoes serve as the main base for this salad. I like to use yellow potatoes for their creamy texture and mildly sweet flavor.
First, I peel and cut them into cubes before cooking them until they are soft but not mushy.
The trick is to let them cool after boiling. This helps them hold their shape when mixed with the shrimp and other ingredients. Also, the starchiness of the potatoes balances well with the other flavors and adds a hearty element to the dish. A good potato-to-shrimp ratio ensures every bite is satisfying.
Vegetables for Texture and Flavor
Adding vegetables like onion, carrot, and garlic plays a big role in both flavor and texture. I usually finely chop red onions for a slight crunch and a bit of sharpness. They brighten up the salad and add a pop of color.
Carrots are also important. I often cook and cube them to add sweetness and color. Lastly, I sprinkle in some fresh parsley for a hint of brightness and celery for that refreshing crunch. Together, these veggies create a vibrant and tasty dish that’s hard to resist.
Dressing the Salad
When it comes to making Ecuador’s Ensalada de Papas con Camarones, the dressing plays a crucial role in enhancing its flavors. I like to focus on two main aspects: whether to use homemade mayonnaise or store-bought, and how to incorporate fresh herbs.
Homemade Mayonnaise vs Store-Bought
Making homemade mayonnaise can elevate your potato salad. It generally tastes fresher and allows me to customize the flavor. To make it, I blend egg yolks, a dash of mustard, vinegar, and slowly whisk in oil until thick.
If I’m in a hurry, store-bought mayonnaise works just fine. It’s convenient and still creamy. I look for quality brands that have a rich flavor. Regardless of which I choose, adding salt and pepper is key to balancing the taste.
Incorporating Fresh Herbs
Adding fresh herbs can take this salad to the next level. I love using cilantro and parsley to give it a vibrant look and fresh taste. Chopping them finely makes it easy to mix into the salad.
I usually add about a tablespoon of each. I also recommend tasting as I go. If I want a stronger herb flavor, I simply add a bit more. The herbs not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also add a lovely green color, making the salad more appealing.
Preparation Technique
To make the perfect Ecuadorian Ensalada de Papas con Camarones, I focus on the key steps: cooking and peeling the shrimp, boiling the potatoes, and assembling the salad. Each part is essential for achieving a delicious and vibrant dish.
Cooking and Peeling Shrimp
First, I bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, I add the raw shrimp. They only need about one minute to cook. I watch for their color to turn from grey to pink, which means they are done.
After cooking, I remove the shrimp and place them in a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process. This helps keep them tender.
Once they are cool, I peel the shrimp carefully. I remove the shells, making sure to leave the tails on if I want to add a nice touch for presentation. Having peeled shrimp ready makes it easy to mix into my salad later on.
Boiling and Prepping Potatoes
For the potatoes, I choose two medium potatoes. I wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt.
In a large pot, I put the whole potatoes in cold water and bring them to a boil. I add a pinch of salt for flavor.
After boiling for about 15 to 20 minutes, I test them by poking with a fork. If it goes in easily, they are done. Then, I drain the water and let the potatoes cool.
Once they are cool enough to handle, I peel the skin off and chop them into bite-sized pieces. These boiled potatoes will add a creamy texture to my salad.
Assembling the Salad
With my shrimp and potatoes ready, I start to assemble the salad. In a large bowl, I mix the peeled shrimp, chopped potatoes, diced onion, and chopped carrots. If I want extra flavor, I can add garlic or a squeeze of lemon juice.
For dressing, I use about 50 grams of mayonnaise. I fold the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients without breaking the potatoes. A sprinkle of salt to taste finishes it off. Now, my Ensalada de Papas con Camarones is ready to serve!
Nutritional Information
When preparing Ensalada de Papas con Camarones, understanding the nutritional aspects can help me make healthier choices. This salad provides a balanced mix of flavors and essential nutrients.
Caloric Content
A typical serving of Ensalada de Papas con Camarones contains about 220 calories. This is a moderate calorie count, making it a suitable option for a light meal or side dish. Most calories in this salad come from the shrimp and the mayonnaise used in the preparation. If I want to lower the calories, I can try using less mayonnaise or a lighter version. Keeping this in mind can help me enjoy my meal without overindulging.
Macronutrients Breakdown
Here’s how the macronutrients in the salad generally break down per serving:
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
- Total Fat: About 10g
- Protein: Around 12g
- Fiber: Roughly 2g
- Sugars: Minimal, about 2g
- Sodium: Varies based on added salt and other ingredients, typically around 300mg
The combination of shrimp and potatoes offers protein and carbohydrates, while the mayonnaise adds fats. This balance not only satisfies my hunger but also provides energy. I can also consider adding extra veggies to boost fiber content while keeping it nutritious.
Variations of the Recipe
There are many ways to put a personal touch on the Ecuadorian Ensalada de Papas con Camarones. I love experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Here are two fun variations that can make this salad even more delightful.
Ecuadorian Ensalada Rusa
Ensalada Rusa is a popular dish in Ecuador and can be a tasty variation of the shrimp potato salad. It typically includes a mix of potatoes, carrots, peas, and sometimes beets, coated in mayonnaise.
To make it, I usually start with boiled potatoes and dice them. Then, I add diced carrots and peas. To enhance the flavor, I stir in a good amount of mayonnaise with a splash of lemon juice.
Sometimes, I even add diced boiled eggs for extra protein. The vibrant colors of the veggies make the dish visually appealing and bring lots of flavors to the table.
Adding Different Proteins
While shrimp is the star in the classic recipe, I enjoy switching things up by adding different proteins. This keeps the salad fresh and exciting.
For instance, I sometimes add diced cooked chicken or crab. Both options provide a different taste and texture.
If I’m in the mood for something different, I’ll use mixed seafood, which can include squid or octopus.
These added proteins can blend beautifully with the creamy mayonnaise mix and the crunchy veggies. They bring their unique flavors that elevate the entire dish.
You can try any combination you like!
Ingredients For the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones Recipe
Celery
Salt
Pepper
Peas
Shrimp
Carrot
Dill
Potatoes
Green Beans
Chives, chopped
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Cooking Instructions For the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones Recipe
Cook the Shrimp
Boil the shrimp in plenty of water until it changes color, then drain. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
Prepare the Salad
In a bowl, combine the potatoes, chives, dill, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, carrot, peas, and shrimp.
Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper, then serve.
FAQ For the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones Recipe
Question: What is the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe?
A: The Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe is a traditional Ecuadorian dish made with potatoes and shrimp. The potatoes are boiled and mixed with cooked shrimp, and the salad is typically dressed with mayonnaise, mustard, and other seasonings.
Question: How do you prepare the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe?
A: To prepare the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe, you boil the potatoes and shrimp until tender, then chop them and mix with mayonnaise, mustard, and optional ingredients like onion, cilantro, or hard-boiled eggs. It is served chilled as a side dish or appetizer.
Question: What are the main ingredients in the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe?
A: The main ingredients in the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe are potatoes, shrimp, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasoning. Additional ingredients like onions, hard-boiled eggs, or cilantro may also be added for extra flavor.
Question: Can I use other seafood instead of shrimp in the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute shrimp with other seafood such as crab, lobster, or even fish. However, shrimp is the most common seafood used in the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe for its texture and flavor.
Question: What dishes pair well with the Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe?
A: The Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones recipe pairs well with grilled meats, seafood dishes, or a light soup. It is often served alongside dishes like ceviche or fried fish for a complete Ecuadorian meal.
Ecuador Ensalada de Papas con Camarones Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 stalk Celery chopped
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Pepper
- 1 can Peas Gustadina
- 1 lb shrimp cooked peeled and deveined
- 1 carrot peeled and cut into squares
- 1 tsp. Dill
- 4 large Potatoes peeled and cooked
- 1 Cup Green Beans . cooked and chopped
- 1 tsp. Chives chopped
- 1 tbsp Mayonnaise
- 1/2 tbsp Mustard
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp
- Boil the shrimp in plenty of water until it changes color, then drain. Season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
- Prepare the Salad
- In a bowl, combine the potatoes, chives, dill, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, carrot, peas, and shrimp.
- Season and Serve
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve.
Nutrition
1 comment
I wasn’t expecting this recipe to be as good as it was, but it really impressed me. The way the ingredients combined created a dish that was both flavorful and well-balanced. I’ll be keeping this one in my regular rotation.