Salmon and smoked eel salad

Fresh salad with salmon and smoked sticks

If you are looking for a salad recipe that combines flavor and elegance, you have come to the right place. This salad with salmon and smoked sticks is not only a healthy choice but also an explosion of colors and textures that will catch everyone's eye at your table. It is a simple yet refined recipe, perfect for light lunches or festive dinners. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4-5 leaves of green salad (you can opt for romaine or iceberg lettuce, depending on your preferences)
- 2 medium ripe and juicy tomatoes
- 1/2 fresh cucumber
- 1 small leek, finely chopped
- 2-3 slices of bell pepper (preferably a mix of red, green, and yellow for a vibrant color palette)
- 100g smoked sticks (you can choose between fish or meat sticks, depending on your preferences)
- 100g smoked salmon, cut into strips
- 2-3 hard-boiled eggs
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt, to taste

History of the salad:
Salads have been part of human nutrition for thousands of years, with a rich history linking different cultures and culinary traditions. They have evolved over time, but their essence has remained constant: the freshness of the ingredients and the combination of textures. The salad with salmon and smoked sticks brings a modern and sophisticated touch, being perfect for festive meals or to impress guests.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by washing the salad leaves well under cold running water. Carefully dry them using a kitchen towel or a salad spinner. Tear them into smaller pieces and place them on a large platter.
- Slice the tomatoes thinly and cut the cucumber into rounds. Ensure they are fresh and free from impurities.

2. Cutting the vegetables:
- Clean the leek and chop it finely. If you are not familiar with leeks, choose a firm white part and avoid the green leaves, which can be tougher.
- The bell pepper slices can be cut into julienne or cubes, depending on your preferences.

3. Assembling the salad:
- Once you have prepared all the ingredients, start assembling the salad. Place the salad leaves on the platter as a base, followed by layers of tomatoes, cucumber, leek, and bell pepper.
- Decorate the edges of the salad with quarters of hard-boiled eggs for a pleasant presentation.

4. Adding the fish:
- Arrange the strips of smoked salmon and smoked sticks over the salad, arranging them so they are visible and attractive. Here you can let your imagination run wild and create an artistic decoration.

5. Drizzling with dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with the balsamic vinegar or lemon juice. Add salt to taste. Drizzle the salad with this dressing, giving it a fresh and savory flavor.

6. Serving:
- The salad is ready to be served! You can accompany it with mayonnaise if you wish, for an extra creaminess. It is ideal alongside fresh or crunchy bread.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh, quality ingredients to achieve a salad with a remarkable taste.
- If you prefer a richer salad, you can add avocado or nuts for an extra boost of nutrients and healthy fats.
- This salad can be adapted according to your preferences. You can add olives, corn, or feta cheese to diversify the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Smoked salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for heart health. Fresh vegetables contribute to fiber and antioxidant intake, supporting a healthy digestive system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked salmon?
Of course! Just make sure to cook it properly, and the taste will be just as delicious.
- How can I keep the salad from getting soggy?
It is best to keep the dressing separate until serving. This will keep the salad crunchy.

Recommended pairings:
This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of dry white wine or a light cocktail, such as a mojito. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, a fresh lemonade will complete the meal perfectly.

Personalization:
For a personal touch, you can add fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, for extra flavor and aroma. This will bring an added freshness and make the salad stand out even more.

In conclusion, the salad with salmon and smoked sticks is an excellent choice for any meal, offering a mix of flavors and textures that delight the taste buds. Whether you serve it at a special dinner or a relaxed lunch, the key is to use fresh, quality ingredients. I hope you enjoy this recipe and add your own personal touch!