Beef Salad

Beef Salad - A Classic Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Discover the magic of a classic salad that has delighted generations! Beef Salad, a dish with a rich history in culinary traditions, stands out for its combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. This salad is often associated with holidays and special occasions, but it can also be enjoyed on ordinary days, providing an explosion of flavors and textures.

Ingredients needed for Beef Salad:

- 450 g potatoes
- 250 g carrots
- 320 g pickles
- 130 g boiled chicken breast
- 350 g chicken roll
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Mayonnaise:
- 1 egg
- 300 ml oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparing the Beef Salad:

1. Boiling the vegetables: Start by thoroughly washing the carrots and potatoes. You can use a sponge to remove any impurities from the skin. Place the vegetables in a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Boil them for 20-25 minutes or until tender but not overly soft. It is important for the vegetables to retain their shape after boiling. Once boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool completely.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Once the potatoes and carrots have cooled, peel them and cut them into small cubes, approximately the same size. This ensures a uniform texture and a pleasing presentation.

3. Preparing the pickles: Cut the pickles into cubes and place them in a sieve to drain excess juice. This step is essential to prevent the salad from becoming too watery. After a few minutes, mix the pickles with the potato and carrot cubes.

4. Adding the proteins: Cut the boiled chicken breast and the chicken roll into cubes. Incorporate them into the bowl with the vegetables. These ingredients add extra flavor and substance to your salad.

5. Preparing the mayonnaise: In a bowl, beat the egg with a whisk or mixer. Gradually add the oil while continuing to mix vigorously. Add the lemon juice, mustard, and salt, continuing to mix until you achieve a smooth and creamy mayonnaise. If you want a less dense mayonnaise, you can add a little cold water to achieve the desired consistency.

6. Mixing the ingredients: Add the mayonnaise to the bowl with the vegetables and meat. Gently mix so that all the ingredients combine evenly without crushing them.

7. Serving: Transfer the salad to a bowl or a flat plate. You can use lemon peels to create decorative flowers, which will not only enhance the aesthetic appearance of the dish but also prevent oxidation. This technique is not only practical but also a way to impress your guests.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Use potatoes that boil well, such as "floury" types. They will hold up better in the salad.
- Pickles: Pickles add a delicious sour contrast. Make sure they are well-drained to avoid a soggy salad.
- Variations: You can replace the chicken breast with beef or a vegetarian option using tofu or boiled vegetables.

Nutritional benefits:

Beef Salad offers a balance of carbohydrates (potatoes), proteins (chicken), and fiber (vegetables), making it a healthy choice for a balanced meal. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a varied diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, the salad can be made a day ahead. The flavor will intensify and be even better the next day.
- What drinks pair well with Beef Salad? A light drink, such as a dry white wine or mineral water with lemon, will perfectly complement the salad.

Share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the moments spent together at the table. Beef Salad is more than just a simple dish - it is a culinary experience that brings people together!