Beef Salad

Beef Salad: Tradition on the Holiday Table

Beef salad is an iconic dish that brings together divine flavors and pleasant memories. It is a staple on New Year's Eve tables and beyond; this salad has become a symbol of conviviality and culinary tradition, appreciated by all who taste it. In this recipe, I will share with you the secret behind a perfect beef salad, full of flavor and texture, that will surely impress both family and guests.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients for the salad:
- 500 g beef (preferably from the round or chuck)
- 5-6 boiled carrots
- 1 boiled parsnip
- 1 boiled parsley root
- 1 boiled celery
- 3-4 pickled cucumbers
- 2 pickled bell peppers
- 150 g peas (about one can)
- 1 cup homemade mayonnaise
- salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for decoration:
- 1-2 bell peppers (optional)
- 2 boiled eggs
- fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by preparing the beef. Choose a quality piece of beef that will add flavor to the salad. Place the meat in a large pot, cover it with cold water, and add a little salt. Boil over medium heat for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the meat becomes tender. It is important not to overboil the meat to preserve its texture.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Meanwhile, you can boil the vegetables. Peel the carrots, parsnip, parsley root, and celery, then cut them into larger pieces and add them to boiling water. Boil until they become tender, but do not let them get too soft to maintain a pleasant texture in the salad.

3. Cooling and cutting: Once the meat and vegetables are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool. Once cooled, cut the meat into small cubes, as well as the vegetables. It is important to have a uniform size of cubes for an attractive appearance of the salad.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced meat, boiled vegetables, drained peas, and diced pickled cucumbers. Add finely chopped pickled bell peppers, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything carefully so that the ingredients combine well.

5. Adding the mayonnaise: It is time to add the homemade mayonnaise. If you haven't made it yet, you can easily do it at home: mix an egg yolk with a tablespoon of mustard, then gradually add oil, stirring continuously until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add the mayonnaise to the bowl with the vegetables and meat, mixing gently to avoid crushing the ingredients.

6. Serving and decorating: Once the salad is ready, transfer it to a serving platter. Decorate with a thin layer of mayonnaise, then add slices of bell pepper and boiled eggs for a festive look. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for an extra touch of color and freshness.

7. Final recommendations: It is advisable to prepare the beef salad a day before serving. The flavor will be much more intense, and the aromas will blend perfectly. Make sure to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a personal touch, you can replace the peas with corn or add olives for a more sophisticated taste.
- Instead of pickled bell peppers, you can use roasted peppers for added flavor.
- Beef salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a light beer, which helps balance the rich flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein, while boiled vegetables provide essential vitamins and fiber. Homemade mayonnaise, made from fresh eggs, adds healthy fats, but it is best to consume it in moderation. Overall, a serving of beef salad can have approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use chicken, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced.

2. How can I make mayonnaise easier?
You can use store-bought mayonnaise, but homemade has a superior taste.

3. Is beef salad suitable for vegans?
There are vegan variations where the meat is replaced with tofu or vegetables and the mayonnaise with an avocado-based version.

This beef salad is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with creativity. The invitation is open: prepare it with love, share it with your loved ones, and enjoy every bite!