Beef Salad

Beef Salad – A Traditional Delight

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

Are you dreaming of a salad that combines savory flavors, vibrant colors, and pleasant memories from festive meals? Beef salad is the perfect choice! This traditional recipe is a symbol of hospitality and joy around the table, being a staple at holidays and special occasions.

The history of this salad has its roots in culinary traditions, where simple ingredients and cooking with love have transformed an ordinary meal into a feast. Beef salad has evolved over the years, and today there are many variations, but the classic recipe remains a favorite for many.

Ingredients:

- 8 medium potatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 1 jar of pickled peppers (about 300g)
- 1 jar of pickles (about 300g)
- 200g frozen peas
- 200g boiled chicken breast (or beef, if you prefer)
- 280g mayonnaise (you can also use light mayonnaise)
- Salt to taste
- Optional: fresh dill or parsley for decoration

Preparing the ingredients:

1. Boiling the vegetables: Start by peeling the potatoes and carrots. Cut them into large cubes for more even cooking. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and add a little salt. Let them boil over medium heat for 20-25 minutes until they are soft but not mushy. Check with a fork if they are done.

2. Cooking the chicken breast: If you don't have boiled chicken breast, you can cook it now. Place it in a pot with cold water, add a slice of onion and a few peppercorns. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked. Let it cool and cut it into small cubes.

3. Preparing the other ingredients: While the vegetables and chicken breast are boiling, drain the pickled peppers and pickles. Cut them into small cubes to ensure an even texture in the salad. If using frozen peas, boil them for 3-5 minutes in salted water, then drain and let them cool.

4. Cutting the vegetables: Once the potatoes and carrots are boiled, let them cool slightly, then cut them into small cubes, about 1 cm. This will help achieve a homogeneous and pleasant-tasting salad.

Mixing the ingredients:

1. In a large bowl, add all the chopped ingredients: potatoes, carrots, chicken breast, pickled peppers, pickles, and peas. Gently mix with a spatula to avoid crushing the vegetables.

2. Add mayonnaise and salt to taste. Mix again until all ingredients are evenly coated with mayonnaise. This is the moment to adjust the amount of mayonnaise according to your preferences.

Serving the salad:

1. Transfer the salad to a beautiful platter. Use a spatula to smooth it out, then dress the salad with an additional layer of mayonnaise for an appetizing appearance.

2. Decorate with fresh dill or parsley for an extra splash of color and freshness. You can also add slices of boiled egg for an elegant look.

3. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the salad even tastier.

Helpful tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Choose fresh, quality vegetables. Waxy potatoes are the best for salad, as they don't break down easily.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of meat, such as beef or even ham, for a distinctive note. You can also add green or black olives for an extra burst of flavor.
- Reducing calories: If you want a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or reduce the amount of mayonnaise and add more vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I make beef salad a few days before the event?
Yes, the salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It's even better after sitting for a few hours, as the flavors intensify.

2. How can I make mayonnaise at home?
You can make mayonnaise at home with eggs, oil, mustard, and lemon juice. Use a mixer to emulsify the ingredients until you achieve a creamy consistency.

3. What drinks pair well with beef salad?
Beef salad pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a fresh lemonade cocktail. Additionally, a refreshing drink or a lager beer are excellent choices.

Beef salad is not just a delicious dish, but also a way to gather family and friends around the table. So, don't hesitate to make it and enjoy every savory bite! I invite you to share your experiences and explore different variations to find the perfect combination that will bring you the most beautiful culinary memories. Bon appétit!