Beef Salad

Beef Salad – A Traditional Delicacy

Beef salad is an iconic dish, celebrated at many festive meals and special events. Although its origins are disputed, it has become a symbol of holiday gastronomy, bringing together varied flavors and delicious textures. This salad is not just an explosion of aromas but also a wonderful way to add a touch of nostalgia to every meal. In the following lines, I will guide you step by step in preparing this salad, so you can achieve a perfect result, full of flavor and color.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients needed

- 3-4 medium carrots
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 parsnip
- 2 eggs
- 1 chicken breast (about 300 g)
- 4 pickles
- 1 can of peas (300 g)
- 500 g mayonnaise (preferably homemade, but you can also use store-bought)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the ingredients

1. Boiling the vegetables and meat
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicken breast, carrots, potatoes, and parsnip. It is ideal for the vegetables to be boiled with their skins on, to better retain their flavors. Boil everything for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but not too soft. Test them with a fork to ensure they are ready.

2. Boiling the eggs
Add the eggs to the pot of water in the last 8-10 minutes of boiling. Once boiled, transfer them immediately to cold water to stop the cooking process.

3. Cooling and cutting the ingredients
Once the vegetables and meat are boiled, remove them from the water and let them cool. After they have cooled, peel the potatoes, carrots, and parsnip. Cut all the ingredients into small cubes, including the chicken breast. Make sure the sizes are uniform for a pleasant presentation.

Mixing the ingredients

4. Adding additional ingredients
In a large bowl, add the cubed boiled vegetables, chopped chicken breast, diced pickles, and peas.

5. Seasoning and mayonnaise
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then gradually add the mayonnaise, mixing gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to break the vegetable cubes. The mayonnaise should be enough to bind all the ingredients but not so much that it becomes a paste.

Finishing and serving

6. Chilling the salad
After all the ingredients are well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 1-2 hours, so the flavors can blend and intensify.

7. Serving
Beef salad is served cold, garnished with slices of boiled egg and optionally with olives or parsley leaves. It can be accompanied by toast or crackers for a pleasant contrast.

Tips and useful advice

- Mayonnaise: If you prefer a healthier version, you can make mayonnaise from a mixture of Greek yogurt and mustard, which will add a note of acidity and reduce the calorie count.
- Variations: You can add other ingredients, such as bell peppers or sliced green olives, for extra flavor.
- Storing the salad: Beef salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended not to add the mayonnaise until an hour before serving to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

Nutritional benefits

Beef salad is a good source of protein due to the chicken breast and eggs, as well as vitamins from the boiled vegetables. Carrots and parsnips are rich in fiber and antioxidants, making this salad not only a tasty dish but also a healthy one.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use beef instead of chicken?
Yes, you can use boiled beef or even leftovers from a previous roast. The taste will be different, but it will add a savory note.

- Is it possible to make a vegan salad?
Sure! Replace the eggs and mayonnaise with vegan alternatives, such as tofu or plant-based mayonnaise. Use vegetables like carrots, potatoes, peas, and pickles for a tasty and healthy salad.

- What other dishes can be served alongside?
Beef salad pairs wonderfully with a vegetable soup or a savory pie, and for a sweet note, a fruit cake would be a perfect ending to a meal. Also, a glass of white wine or a light cocktail can complete the culinary experience.

Conclusion

Beef salad is more than just a dish – it is a story, a tradition, and a way to bring people together. With each ingredient added, you bring a touch of your personality to the plate. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just as a treat on ordinary days, this salad will surely be a hit. Enjoy your meal!