Flower Salad

Flower Salad - A Nostalgic Delicacy from the Old Recipe Cycle

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover the magic of the simple yet delicious Flower Salad, a recipe that evokes pleasant childhood memories and brings together basic ingredients to create an appetizing and colorful dish. This salad is perfect for festive meals or family dinners, being not only delicious but also a burst of colors that will delight the eyes of your loved ones.

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 medium potatoes
- 1 large carrot
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 orange bell pepper
- 1 egg
- 200 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, freshly ground, to taste
- 100 g pressed ham or ham salami
- Optional: a few black olives
- 50 g finely grated cheese

Preparation Steps:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the potatoes and carrot. Cut the potatoes into cubes of about 1-2 cm and the carrot into thin rounds. This size will ensure even cooking and a pleasant appearance.

2. Boiling the vegetables
Place the potatoes and carrot in a pot with cold water and a little salt. Boil them for 15-20 minutes until they become soft but not mushy. You can check the consistency with a fork, which should go in easily but not fall apart.

3. Draining and seasoning
After the vegetables are boiled, drain them in a colander and let them cool slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to add a touch of flavor.

4. Sautéing the peppers
Meanwhile, prepare the peppers. Cut them into thin strips and sauté them in a pan with a little oil for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly crispy and release their aroma. Let them cool.

5. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes and carrot with the sautéed peppers, and if desired, add a few pitted black olives. Mix gently, being careful not to crush the vegetables.

6. Preparing the mayonnaise
To create the mayonnaise, beat an egg yolk in a bowl and gradually add oil while mixing constantly. Add a few drops of lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue to mix until you achieve a creamy consistency.

7. Finalizing the salad
Incorporate the mayonnaise into the vegetable mixture, making sure everything is well coated. Add a generous spoonful of grated cheese for extra flavor.

8. Shaping the salad
Place the salad in a bowl and shape it into a round form using a spoon or your hands. Then, turn the salad onto a flat platter.

9. Decorating
To beautify the dish, decorate it with pressed ham petals around the edge. This will not only add an elegant appearance but also enhance the flavor.

10. Serving
Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving, so the flavors can meld. It is an ideal dish to share at festive meals or on weekends.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Make sure the vegetables are fresh and of good quality. Starchy potatoes are best for salads, and the peppers should be crunchy and vibrant.
- Variations: You can replace the pressed ham with boiled chicken or tuna for a lighter version. You can also add cooked vegetables like peas or corn for extra color and texture.
- Pairing drinks: This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of fresh lemon juice or a dry white wine, which will complement the flavors of the dish.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This salad offers a balance of nutrients, being rich in vitamins A and C from the vegetables, protein from the egg, and healthy fats from the olive oil. A serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I replace the mayonnaise? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can experiment with herbs like dill or parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Flower Salad is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or just on an ordinary evening, it is guaranteed to bring smiles and appreciation. Enjoy your meal!