Taramasalata

Taramasalata is a Greek and Turkish specialty dish consisting of mashed potatoes or bread (or sometimes breadcrumbs) combined with lemon juice, olive oil, and fish roe, usually from cod, carp, or mullet. The dip is usually served as an appetizer or a meze dish. In Greece, taramasalata is traditionally consumed on Clean Monday, which is the first day of Lent. Taramasalata can also be bought pre-made in numerous Turkish and Greek stores, but it is not well-received due to large amounts of food coloring, resulting in an unusual pink color of the dish. When served, taramasalata is often garnished with olives, tomatoes, and cucumbers.