Bean salad with mayonnaise

Delicious bean salad with mayonnaise

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t remember the aroma and creamy texture of bean salad with mayonnaise? This simple and quick recipe is not only a culinary delight but also an excellent choice for family meals or parties. Rich in protein and fiber, bean salad is a hearty option, perfect for vegetarians and beyond. Let’s start our culinary journey!

Necessary ingredients

- Cooked beans (preferably white or red, depending on preference)
- Raw carrot, grated
- Pickles, diced
- Pressed ham, diced
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- The egg white of a boiled egg (which we will use for the mayonnaise)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Mayonnaise (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)

Preparing the salad

1. Preliminary phase: Start by rinsing the cooked beans under a cold water stream to remove any impurities. Make sure the beans are well-drained; otherwise, the salad will become too watery.

2. Grate the carrot: Use a fine grater to obtain grated carrot. This will add a sweet note to the salad and provide a crunchy texture.

3. Preparing the ingredients: Dice the pickles and ham into small cubes. Ensure the sizes are uniform for a harmonious presentation. Also, slice the boiled egg white into thin strips.

4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the cooked beans, grated carrot, pickles, ham, and egg white. Don’t forget to add the fresh parsley, which will bring extra freshness to the salad.

5. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. It’s important to mix the ingredients carefully, so as not to crush the beans.

6. Adding the mayonnaise: At this point, you can add the mayonnaise. If you use homemade mayonnaise, the taste will be truly special. Mix everything with a spatula or a large spoon, being careful not to destroy your ingredients.

7. Serving: Once the salad is well mixed, it’s ready to serve. You can let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips and useful advice

- For perfect mayonnaise: If you decide to make mayonnaise at home, ensure all ingredients (oil, egg, mustard, vinegar) are at room temperature. This will facilitate emulsification.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding green or black olives, finely chopped bell pepper, or even cooked corn. Each ingredient will add a new taste and texture to your salad.
- Protein enrichment: If you want an even heartier version, you can add pieces of boiled chicken or canned tuna.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, contributing to digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, carrots are rich in vitamin A, essential for eye health, and mayonnaise, in moderation, brings healthy fats.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned beans? Yes, it’s a quick option, but make sure to rinse it well before using.
- How can I store the salad? The bean salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it’s recommended to consume it fresh to avoid soggy ingredients.
- What can I serve alongside the bean salad? This salad pairs perfectly with toasted bread or as a side dish for meats or fish.

Conclusion

Bean salad with mayonnaise is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe, ideal for any occasion. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a main course, it’s a choice that will surely delight both families and guests. So don’t hesitate! Start cooking and let your creativity shine!