Beef salad

Beef Salad - a classic recipe full of flavor and memories

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Beef salad is one of those recipes that brings back memories of holidays, parties, and moments spent with loved ones. Although its name suggests a salad with beef, in the version we present today, we use chicken breast, making it a lighter and less fatty choice. This recipe is simple, quick, and delicious, perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving a festive meal or just want to indulge in a tasty dish.

History of Beef Salad

The origins of beef salad are not very clear, but it is believed that this dish emerged in the 19th century as a variant of the meat salads popular at that time. Over time, the recipe has evolved and adapted based on available ingredients and each family's preferences. It is a versatile dish that can be customized in countless ways, and each version bears the mark of local culinary tradition.

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast
- 6-7 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 5-6 green tomatoes (or other pickles, as preferred)
- 2-3 pickled cucumbers
- 2-3 pickled peppers
- 2 boiled eggs
- 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (preferably homemade)
- 1-2 tablespoons of mustard
- 100 ml of oil
- salt and pepper, to taste
- juice of one lemon

Ingredient Details

- Chicken breast: Choose a fresh, high-quality chicken breast. You can also use grilled chicken breast for a more intense flavor.
- Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes that boil well and can be easily cut.
- Pickles: Green tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers add a tangy flavor and a crunchy texture. You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences.
- Mayonnaise: Homemade mayonnaise will add extra flavor and will be much healthier than store-bought.

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients:
- Start by boiling the chicken breast. Place it in a pot with water and a little salt. Boil for about 20-25 minutes until well cooked. After it cools, cut it into cubes.
- In parallel, wash the potatoes and carrots. Boil them in a separate pot in salted water for 15-20 minutes until soft. After they cool, chop them finely.
- In another pot, boil the eggs for 10 minutes, then let them cool before peeling and cutting into cubes.

2. Preparing the pickles:
- Chop the green tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers into small cubes so they integrate perfectly into the salad. These ingredients add a tangy flavor and a crunchy texture.

3. Assembling the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine all the chopped ingredients (chicken breast, potatoes, carrots, pickles, and eggs).
- Add the mayonnaise and mustard, gently mixing to avoid crushing the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

4. Garnish and serve:
- Place the salad on a serving platter and decorate with slices of boiled egg or a few parsley leaves for a more appealing look.

Practical Tips

- If you want to save time, you can boil the ingredients a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. The next day, quickly assemble the salad.
- For added flavor, include some chopped green or black olives.
- Replace the mustard with a tablespoon of grated horseradish for a spicy touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use beef?
Yes, but it will require longer boiling to become tender. In this case, you can use boiled or fried beef, cut into cubes.

- How can I make mayonnaise at home?
Whisk an egg yolk with a few drops of mustard and oil, adding oil gradually until you achieve a creamy consistency. Add lemon juice and salt to taste.

- What is the best way to store the salad?
Beef salad can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

Delicious Combinations

Beef salad pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or crackers. You can serve it alongside a glass of white wine or cold lemonade to complete the culinary experience.

Nutrition and Calories

This salad contains protein from the chicken breast, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and fiber from the vegetables, providing a balanced dish. A serving has about 250-300 calories, making it a suitable choice for a light meal.

Customized Version

If you want to add a touch of originality, try including some dried fruits, like pineapple or olives, for a sweet-sour contrast.

With this beef salad recipe, you'll bring to your table a tasty dish full of tradition and love. Enjoy your meal!