Salatka

Salatka is a Polish word that translates to "salad" in English. It encompasses a wide variety of dishes, typically served as a side dish or appetizer, but sometimes as a main course. Polish salads are known for their diverse ingredients, often featuring fresh vegetables, cooked meats, eggs, and creamy dressings.

A very common type of salatka is a potato salad, often made with boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, pickles, peas, and mayonnaise. Another popular variation is a herring salad, which combines chopped herring with vegetables, apples, and a creamy dressing. Vegetable-heavy salads are also prevalent, such as those made with cabbage, carrots, and peppers, or layered salads with ingredients like cheese, ham, and corn.

The dressings used in salatka are typically mayonnaise-based, but sour cream or yogurt can also be incorporated. Seasonings often include salt, pepper, and sometimes mustard or dill. The preparation of salatka usually involves chopping all ingredients into small, uniform pieces and then mixing them with the dressing. It is a staple at family gatherings, holidays, and everyday meals in Poland.