Pako salad, also known as Ensaladang Pako, is a popular Filipino dish that showcases the unique taste and texture of fiddlehead ferns.
These ferns, locally called “panko,” possess a distinct, slightly nutty flavor and a delightful crunchiness that makes them the perfect base for a refreshing and healthy salad.
We will also discuss essential ingredients, possible substitutions, and handy tips to make your pako salad experience both enjoyable and memorable.
So, whether you’re a seasoned cook or someone who’s just discovering the world of Filipino cuisine, prepare to embark on a delicious journey that will entice your taste buds and transform your kitchen into a culinary haven.
How to Make Pako Salad
Pako Salad, also known as Ensaladang Pako, is a Filipino recipe that features fiddlehead fern as its main ingredient.
This healthy dish is easy to make and a refreshing alternative to the average salad.
In this section, we will cover the ingredients list and the step-by-step process of creating a delicious batch of fern salad.
Ingredients List
To make Pako Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 bundle of fiddlehead fern (Pako)
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 salted egg, sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-step process
Step 1: Prepare the ferns
Rinse the fiddlehead ferns (Pako) thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
Trim off any hard or brown ends, then blanch the ferns in boiling water for 2 minutes, followed by an ice bath to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Make the dressing
In a small bowl or jar, combine the vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and olive oil.
Mix well until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well-blended.
Set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched Pako, sliced tomatoes, onions, and salted egg.
Toss gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Dress the salad
Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss once more to ensure everything is evenly coated.
If desired, you can adjust the taste by adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to your liking.
Enjoy your freshly made Pako Salad as a flavorful and nutrient-packed side dish or as a light meal on its own.
Side Dishes for Pako Salad
Pako salad, a Filipino dish made with fiddlehead ferns, is known for its refreshing taste and healthy aspects.
To enhance and complement its flavors, consider serving it alongside some carefully chosen side dishes.
Here are some options that will elevate your pako salad experience:
Filipino Dishes
Many traditional Filipino dishes pair well with panko salad, thanks to the shared culinary heritage.
Since the salad is light and refreshing, you might want to serve it with heartier Filipino dishes like adobo, lechon kawali, or sisig to create a balanced and satisfying meal.
Garden Salad
A garden salad is always a great companion to any main dish.
The variety of fresh vegetables found in garden salads provides a contrast of textures and flavors to the somewhat distinct taste of pako salad.
Additionally, a simple vinaigrette will help to keep the overall meal light and refreshing.
German Sausage Salad
If you’re in the mood for something more filling and savory, try a German sausage salad.
The combination of sausage, cheese, onion, and pickles, dressed in vinegar and oil, creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures that complements the pako salad well.
Ordinary Salad
An ordinary green salad consisting of just lettuce, cucumber, and tomato is an easy and healthy side dish option.
The simplicity of this salad highlights the unique flavor of pako salad without overpowering it.
Refreshing Salad
To enhance the refreshing aspect of your pako salad, consider serving it with another light and crisp salad, such as a cucumber and dill salad or a watermelon and feta salad.
These salads will keep the meal feeling airy and revitalizing.
Meticulous Salads
For those who appreciate finer details in their meals, opt for a more meticulous salad, like a Caprese or a Panzanella.
These salads often require more preparation, but their intricate flavors will enhance and elevate your pako salad experience.
In conclusion, these side dishes can make your pako salad meal more satisfying and enjoyable.
Choose one or several, and enjoy the enhanced flavors and different textures they bring to your dining experience.
Ingredients Substitutes
When preparing a pako salad, you may come across situations where you need to find substitutes for some of the ingredients.
This section will provide you with a list of alternative ingredients you can use in your pako salad to ensure that it still tastes delicious and remains nutritious.
Edible Fern
If you can’t find fiddlehead ferns, you can replace them with other leafy vegetables such as spinach, arugula, or kale.
These vegetables have a similar texture and mild taste, making them a suitable alternative for your salad.
Onions
In case you don’t have fresh onions at hand, you can substitute them with green onions (scallions) or shallots.
These alternatives will provide a similar flavor and texture to your pako salad without compromising the overall taste.
Medium Tomatoes
If you don’t have medium-sized tomatoes, you can use cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes instead.
These smaller varieties will still provide the sweet taste and a similar texture that’s desired in a pako salad.
Salted Egg
If you can’t find salted eggs or want a healthier alternative, you can use regular boiled eggs in your pako salad.
The taste will be slightly different, but the boiled eggs will still complement the other ingredients nicely.
Remember, the key to a delicious pako salad is to choose fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of vegetable substitutes to create your own unique version.
How to Store Pako Salad
Pako salad is a delicious and healthy dish that needs proper storage to maintain its freshness and flavor.
In this section, you will learn the best ways to store pako salad to enjoy it at its peak.
Cold Water Method
To store your pako salad, place it in a bowl of cold water.
This will help in preserving its moisture and crispness.
To keep the water cold, you may choose to add some ice cubes or place the bowl in the refrigerator.
However, be sure not to leave the salad in the water for too long, as it might become soggy.
Ice Bath Method
An alternative method for maintaining the freshness of pako salad is using an ice bath.
This is particularly useful when you have blanched the pako leaves for your salad.
Submerge the blanched leaves in an ice bath for a few minutes to quickly cool them down and halt the cooking process.
This will ensure that the leaves remain crisp and vibrant.
Vinegar Mixture Method
To store pako salad with dressing, create a vinegar mixture using the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Stir the sugar into the vinegar until it dissolves.
This vinegar mixture helps in preserving the freshness of the salad while adding a tangy flavor.
Drizzle the mixture over the salad before refrigerating it.
Refrigeration
Place the panko salad in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap to prevent exposure to air or outside odors.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Be sure to store any leftover salad dressing separately, as it may cause the salad to become soggy if mixed for too long.
By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your pako salad for a longer time while maintaining its taste and freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing Pako Salad.
Not Cleaning the Pako Properly
It is important to clean the pako thoroughly before using it in your salad.
The fiddlehead ferns may have dirt or debris lodged in their curls.
Rinse them under running water, making sure to remove any dirt or debris.
You can also soak the panko in cold water for a few minutes before rinsing.
Overcooking the Pako
The crisp texture is one of the key features of a pako salad.
Be sure not to overcook the panko, as doing so will make it lose its crunch.
Dip it into boiled water for only 3-5 minutes, then remove and set aside.
Using Low-Quality Ingredients
Using fresh and high-quality ingredients will greatly enhance the overall taste of your pako salad.
Choose ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce, fresh ground black pepper, and quality vinegar for the dressing to ensure you enjoy the most flavorful salad possible.
Adding Too Much Dressing
While a creamy dressing can add flavor to the salad, too much of it can overpower the natural flavors of the panko and other ingredients.
Measure your dressing ingredients carefully and drizzle the dressing sparingly over the salad.
You can always serve more dressing on the side for those who prefer it.
Skipping the Salted Egg Slices
Pako salad is traditionally served with salted egg slices to add a savory contrast to the dish’s freshness.
Omitting the salted egg slices will result in an incomplete flavor profile, so don’t forget to include them in your salad.
Remember to keep these mistakes in mind while preparing your pako salad to ensure a flavorful and nutritious dish.

Pako Salad Recipe
- small bowl
- large mixing bowl
- 1 bundle of fiddlehead fern Pako
- 2 tomatoes sliced
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 salted egg sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Rinse the fiddlehead ferns (Pako) thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off any hard or brown ends, then blanch the ferns in boiling water for 2 minutes, followed by an ice bath to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Drain well and set aside.
- In a small bowl or jar, combine the vinegar, sugar, black pepper, and olive oil. Mix well until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is well-blended. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched Pako, sliced tomatoes, onions, and salted egg. Toss gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
- Just before serving, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss once more to ensure everything is evenly coated. If desired, you can adjust the taste by adding more salt, pepper, or sugar to your liking.
- Enjoy your freshly made Pako Salad as a flavorful and nutrient-packed side dish or as a light meal on its own.
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