Beef Salad

Beef Salad: A Classic Delicacy with a Touch of Creativity

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Beef salad is a staple dish in many households, often associated with celebrations and special moments. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile, as it can be adapted and reinterpreted based on personal preferences. Its history intertwines with culinary traditions, having deep roots in the art of cooking. Whether served at a festive meal or as a refreshing appetizer, beef salad will not disappoint.

Ingredients:

For the salad:
- 6 large potatoes
- 4 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 can of peas (approximately 400 g)
- 3-4 pickles (depending on preference)

For the mayonnaise:
- 3 eggs
- 300 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 3 tablespoons creamy mustard (e.g., Olympia)
- Juice of one lemon (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by washing the potatoes well. It is important to cook them with their skins on to keep them juicy and prevent nutrient loss. Place them in a large pot, fill with water, and add a pinch of salt. The heat should be medium, and the potatoes will boil for about 30-35 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork.

Meanwhile, peel the carrots and parsnip, then cut them in half. Boil them in another pot with water and salt. They will need about 20-25 minutes to become tender.

Helpful tips: Check the vegetables with a knife – if it goes in easily, they are ready. So, do not let them boil too long, as they will lose their crunchy texture.

Step 2: Chopping the vegetables

Once the vegetables are cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. Once they reach a manageable temperature, you can start chopping. Cut the potatoes, carrots, and parsnip into small cubes, about 1 cm. This uniform size will ensure a pleasant texture and an attractive appearance for the salad.

Add the drained peas and the pickles, also cut into cubes. Together, these ingredients will create a vibrant and colorful salad.

Step 3: Preparing the mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is the soul of this salad, so make sure to prepare it carefully. In a vertical mixer bowl, add the whole eggs, mustard, and oil. Mix well for one minute until the mixture becomes homogeneous and creamy. If the mayonnaise is too runny, you can add a little oil and continue mixing.

A personal trick: Adding lemon juice to the mayonnaise will not only give it a fresher taste but will also help maintain the color of the ingredients.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables. Add the prepared mayonnaise and mix gently, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated. It is important not to mix too much to avoid crushing the vegetables.

Step 5: Chilling and serving

After the salad is well mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will allow the flavors to meld and make the salad even tastier.

Before serving, you can garnish the salad as you wish. Whether you choose to use slices of boiled egg, olives, or fresh herbs, the presentation details will make the salad truly special.

Possible variations: You can also add other ingredients like celery, bacon, or even vinegar for a more intense flavor. Adapting the recipe to personal preferences can transform beef salad into a unique dish.

Serving combinations and tips: Beef salad pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade. It is also excellent as an appetizer alongside other festive dishes like roast or pies.

Nutritional benefits: This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables, and the mayonnaise adds healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption. It is an excellent choice for a balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding to the salad.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Sure! You can omit the eggs from the mayonnaise and use store-bought vegetarian mayonnaise.

3. How long can beef salad be stored in the fridge?
Beef salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

4. Is it possible to make vegan mayonnaise?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with a combination of plant milk and oil, mixing them well to achieve a creamy consistency.

Whether you choose to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, Beef Salad is a dish that brings joy and flavor to every meal. Don’t forget to put your personal touch on this classic recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Bon appétit!