Beef Salad

Beef Salad - A Classic and Unmistakable Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Beef Salad is an iconic dish that brings together simple ingredients to create an explosion of flavors and textures. It is a festive salad, perfect for special occasions, but also for everyday meals. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but it has undoubtedly become a favorite among many families due to its versatility and exceptional taste.

Necessary ingredients:

- 400 g canned or frozen peas and carrots (boiled in salted water)
- 4-5 hard-boiled eggs
- 4-5 boiled potatoes (ideally boiled a day in advance)
- 2 parsley roots or 1 boiled celery
- 5-6 pickled cucumbers
- 100 g bologna or boiled chicken breast
- 4-5 green or black olives for garnish
- Mustard (preferably Dijon for a stronger taste)
- Mayonnaise (you can also use homemade mayonnaise for an authentic flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation technique:

1. Boiling the vegetables: If using canned vegetables, make sure to drain them well. If you choose fresh vegetables, boil them in a pot of salted water. Cook the peas and carrots until tender but not mushy. This step will take about 10-15 minutes.

2. Preparing the eggs and potatoes: Boil the eggs for 10-12 minutes until hard. Once cooled, peel and dice them. The potatoes should be boiled whole to retain their flavor. Let them cool, then peel and dice.

3. Chopping the ingredients: Cut all the vegetables (peas, carrots, potatoes, parsley or celery) into small cubes to ensure uniform texture. It is important to use a sharp knife and be patient to make the cubes as uniform as possible.

4. Adding the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the boiled vegetables, diced eggs, pickled cucumbers (also diced), and bologna or chicken breast. Gently mix, being careful not to crumble the ingredients.

5. Seasoning: Add 2 tablespoons of mustard and 2-3 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients. Taste the mixture and adjust with salt and pepper to preference. Remember that mustard can have a slightly salty taste, so use salt sparingly.

6. Forming the salad: Transfer the mixture to a platter and shape it nicely, pressing gently to compact. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on top for an elegant look.

7. Garnishing: Decorate the salad with green or black olives and, if available, some thin strips of pickled pepper for a color contrast and extra flavor.

8. Serving: Beef Salad can be served immediately, but it is recommended to refrigerate it for a few hours or even overnight. This way, the flavors will blend perfectly, and the taste will be even richer.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Plan ahead: Preparing the salad a day in advance is ideal as it allows the ingredients to cool and the flavors to meld.
- Use fresh ingredients: If you have fresh vegetables, don’t hesitate to use them! The taste will surely be better than that of canned vegetables.
- Vary the ingredients: You can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or olives, to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Cook with love: Cooking is an art, and every detail matters. Put passion into making this salad, and it will surely be appreciated by your loved ones.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can Beef Salad be frozen?
It is recommended not to freeze the salad, as the ingredients may lose their texture and flavor.

- Is Beef Salad healthy?
The salad contains vegetables, eggs, and meat, providing a good source of protein and vitamins. However, it is also high in calories due to the mayonnaise, so it should be consumed in moderation.

- What goes well with Beef Salad?
This salad pairs perfectly with fresh bread or pickled beetroot at the table. You can also serve it alongside a glass of tomato juice or a light white wine.

Nutrition per serving (approx.):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g

A successful Beef Salad is not just a dish, but a story you share with your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, make sure to give it a personal touch. It could be a secret ingredient, a special garnish, or a simple kind word to transform a classic recipe into an unforgettable memory. Enjoy your meal!