Beef Salad

Beef Salad - a classic recipe, full of flavor and tradition

Who doesn't love a serving of beef salad? This dish is a symbol of celebrations and family gatherings, bringing together flavors and textures that perfectly complement each other. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious beef salad with an authentic taste that will make you come back to it every time.

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 1 kg of potatoes
- 1 large chicken breast (or 500 g of beef, according to preference)
- 3-4 parsnips
- 3-4 parsley
- 1/2 kg carrots
- 1 medium celery
- 1/2 jar of pickles
- 1 jar of sour peppers (or to taste)
- 2-3 tablespoons of mustard
- Salt or seasoning, to taste
- Mayonnaise (about 2 bowls)
- 1 bowl of Kalamata olives for garnish
- 4 eggs (for making mayonnaise)

The story behind the recipe

Beef salad is a dish found on festive tables in many corners of the world. Although the recipe may vary, the essence remains the same - a savory combination of boiled vegetables, meat, and mayonnaise that reminds us of moments spent with loved ones. Whether served at anniversaries, holidays, or just on ordinary days, beef salad remains an essential ingredient of conviviality.

Preparation steps

1. Boiling the ingredients
Start by washing the potatoes well with a wire sponge to remove any impurities. Boil them in their skins, along with the chicken breast (or beef) and vegetables (carrots, parsnip, celery, and parsley). Add 1-2 teaspoons of salt to enhance flavor and prevent the potatoes from cracking. It is important to boil all the ingredients together, as this way the vegetables will transfer their flavors to each other.

2. Checking the consistency
Each ingredient has a different boiling time, so it is advisable to remove them one by one. Check if they are cooked with a fork; they should be tender but not overcooked.

3. Preparing the peas
After removing the vegetables and meat, you can add the peas to the same water. They will absorb the flavor of the previous dishes, bringing a more intense taste.

4. Preparing the vegetables
Once the ingredients have cooled, peel the potatoes and chop them finely. Do the same with the other boiled vegetables. Finely chop them and place them in a large bowl. You will obtain a colorful combination of vegetables (the parsnip and carrots will be equal in parts) and a smaller bowl with potatoes.

5. Preparing the sour ingredients
The pickles and sour peppers should be well drained. Squeeze them gently in your hand to eliminate excess liquid, then chop them and let them drain in a colander for a few minutes.

6. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables and meat. Add the sour ingredients (pickles and sour peppers) to taste, along with a little salt or seasoning, mustard, and then mayonnaise. Mix all the ingredients well, tasting constantly to check if more seasoning is needed.

7. Assembling the salad
Place the salad on a platter and dress it with a generous layer of mayonnaise. This layer not only gives an appetizing appearance but also a creamy texture that enhances every bite.

8. Decorating the salad
Use brown or black Kalamata olives to decorate the salad. They add a color contrast and a delicious flavor, making the dish not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Practical tips

- Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh vegetables will greatly enhance the salad's flavor.
- Homemade mayonnaise: If time allows, prepare homemade mayonnaise, which will add an extra flavor boost. Use fresh eggs and quality oil.
- Creative substitutions: Although the traditional recipe includes meat, you can experiment with vegetarian options, using tofu or even extra vegetables.
- Reheating: If you made the salad in advance, make sure to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! Although chicken breast is the most popular, you can use beef or even fish, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the salad less caloric?
You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or opt for a lighter version made from Greek yogurt.

3. Is beef salad good the next day?
Yes, beef salad is even better the next day when the flavors have had time to blend.

Serving recommendations

Beef salad pairs perfectly with fresh bread or even crunchy croutons for a contrast of textures. It can also be accompanied by a glass of white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade, which will perfectly complement the meal.

Conclusion

Beef salad is more than just a simple culinary dish; it is a true culinary experience that brings together people and traditions. Don't forget to enjoy every step of the preparation and savor it with your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will surely be a success!