Broccoli salad with mozzarella

Broccoli Salad with Mozzarella – an explosion of color and flavor

Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and quick recipe? I invite you to discover broccoli salad with mozzarella, a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but also add a boost of vitamins to your diet. This salad is perfect as an appetizer or as a side dish, and its versatility makes it suitable for any meal, from a quick lunch to a festive dinner.

The history of this dish is tied to the use of fresh vegetables and cheese, ingredients found in many culinary cultures. The combination of broccoli, a superfood, and mozzarella, a creamy cheese, makes this salad an excellent choice, full of nutrients. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 piece of broccoli (approximately 300g)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 medium beetroot
- 1 piece of mozzarella (approximately 125g)
- 100g boiled corn (can be canned or boiled at home)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water to remove impurities. Peel the carrots and beetroot. You can use a knife or a peeler for this. For the beetroot, being a harder vegetable, make sure to use a sharp knife.

Step 2: Grating and cutting
Grate the carrot and beetroot using a large grater. This will help release the natural juices from the vegetables, adding extra flavor to the salad. Cut the broccoli into small florets, being careful not to make them too small to maintain the crunchy texture.

Step 3: Preparing the dressing
In a large bowl, add the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix the ingredients well with a wooden spoon until the dressing is smooth. The olive oil not only adds a delicious taste but is also a source of healthy fats that aid in the absorption of vitamins from the vegetables.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the grated vegetables (carrot and beetroot), the broccoli florets, and the boiled corn to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything so that the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing, but do not crush them.

Step 5: Preparing the cheese
Slice the mozzarella into thin pieces. This will give the salad a creamy and delicious touch. You can use fresh mozzarella or the canned version, depending on your preferences.

Step 6: Serving
Transfer the salad to a serving plate and arrange the mozzarella slices on top. If desired, you can drizzle the mozzarella with a little olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly ground pepper for added flavor. This salad can be served immediately or chilled to intensify the flavors.

Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables of your choice, such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a touch of freshness and color.
- If you want an even heartier version, add some nuts or toasted seeds.
- The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is recommended not to add mozzarella before serving to prevent it from getting soggy.

Nutritional benefits:
Broccoli is extremely rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, thus contributing to healthy digestion. Carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body. Beetroot is known for its detoxifying properties, while mozzarella adds protein and calcium.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace broccoli with another vegetable?
Of course! You can use Brussels sprouts or cauliflower, which will add a similar texture.
- Is this salad suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can omit the mozzarella or replace it with vegan cheese.

Delicious combinations:
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or fish but can also be an excellent side dish for a steak. Additionally, you can accompany it with a glass of white wine or a fresh fruit cocktail for a festive meal.

In conclusion, broccoli salad with mozzarella is not only a simple and quick recipe, but also a healthy dish, full of color and flavor. Try making it and enjoy the benefits of fresh vegetables! Bon appétit!