Autumn flavored salad

Autumn Aromatic Salad

The first vibrant taste of autumn can be found in a delicious salad that combines the colors and flavors specific to this season. This salad quickly became one of my favorites, brought into my life by my sister-in-law from Bucovina, who learned the recipe from her mother. A recipe with tradition that evokes family meals, evenings spent together, and the joy of savoring healthy, flavorful dishes. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this aromatic salad, which can be an excellent side dish or an appetizer that will delight the taste buds of your loved ones!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 days for the flavors to meld
Total time: 30 minutes + cooling
Number of servings: Approximately 5 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:

For the salad:
- 1 kg bell peppers
- 0.5 kg kapia peppers
- 2-3 cucumbers
- 1 small cauliflower
- 1 small celery

For the brine:
- 500 ml vinegar (ideally, use white wine vinegar for a milder taste)
- 1 liter water
- 250 g sugar or honey (sugar will add a pleasant sweetness, while honey will add a more complex flavor)
- 1 tablespoon coarse salt
- 3 garlic cloves
- 1 tablespoon peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds

Preparation of the Autumn Aromatic Salad:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold running water. Choose fresh, high-quality vegetables to achieve an authentic tasting salad. Cut the bell peppers and kapia peppers into strips or cubes, as preferred. The cucumbers can be sliced into rounds or cubes, and the cauliflower can be broken into small florets. For the celery, peel the skin and cut it into small cubes.

2. Mixing the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large bowl that allows you to mix them well. Add a pinch of salt over the vegetables to help draw out their juices, making them more aromatic.

3. Preparing the brine: In a pot, add the water, vinegar, sugar (or honey), salt, crushed garlic, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It is important for the brine to be well mixed, so stir it occasionally.

4. Blanching the vegetables: Once the brine starts to boil, add the chopped vegetables. Let them boil for 3-4 minutes. This step will help preserve the vegetables while enhancing the flavors.

5. Filling the jars: Use a spatula or a wide spoon to scoop the vegetables out of the pot. Carefully place them into glass jars, being careful not to press them too hard to avoid destroying their texture. Fill the jars with the hot brine, ensuring all the vegetables are covered.

6. Preserving: Place the lids on the jars and turn them upside down. This will create a vacuum that helps preserve the vegetables. Allow the jars to cool at room temperature, then store them in the pantry for use during the winter.

Serving and suggestions:

The aromatic autumn salad can be served after 2-3 days, allowing the flavors to meld. It is delicious alongside grilled meat or as a side dish for a festive meal. You can also try adding it to sandwiches or serving it with feta cheese and olives.

Tips and variations:

- Add fresh herbs: A handful of freshly chopped dill can add a fresh note to your salad.
- Change the vegetables: You can substitute cauliflower with carrots or add zucchini for a variety of textures and flavors.
- Sweetening to taste: Experiment with different types of sweeteners. Maple syrup can provide a unique flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Consuming fresh vegetables is essential for a balanced diet and helps maintain the health of the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can the salad be stored?
- In the pantry, the jars can be stored for several months, as long as they are sealed correctly.

2. Can I use other vegetables?
- Absolutely! Be creative and add your favorite vegetables.

3. Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?
- It is recommended to sterilize the jars to prevent contamination, especially if you want to store them for a longer period.

This aromatic autumn salad is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that blends tradition with health. I encourage you to try it and share the joy of this dish with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!