Cheese and ham salad

Fresh salad with cheese and ham - An explosion of flavors and colors

When it comes to quick and delicious dishes, the salad with cheese and ham proves to be a perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with nutrients, offering a savory mix of fresh vegetables and protein-rich ingredients. It is a versatile salad, excellent as an appetizer, side dish, or even as a light lunch.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients you need:

- 1 large green lettuce (iceberg or romaine type)
- 2 bunches of radishes (about 10 radishes)
- 1 medium red onion
- 1 bunch of green onions
- 1 slice of smoked cheese (about 50-100 g)
- 1 slice of Prague ham (about 50-100 g)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Olive oil or other vegetable oil, to taste
- Vinegar or lemon juice, to preference

Preparing the salad:

1. Prepare the vegetables: Start by cleaning and washing all the vegetables well. It is essential to use fresh vegetables to achieve a crunchy and vibrant salad. Rinse the lettuce under cold running water and let it drain well. If you want a more intense flavor, you can use darker leafy lettuce, which has a stronger flavor profile.

2. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the lettuce into medium-sized strips, making it easy to eat. Then, slice the red onion into thin rings; this will add a slightly spicy taste to the salad. The radishes, with their vibrant color, can be sliced thinly or even diced for a more interesting look. The green onions can be cut into small pieces, using both the white and green parts.

3. Preparing the main ingredients: Cut the cheese and ham into small cubes. It is important to choose a quality smoked cheese, which will bring a deep flavor to your salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for unsmoked cheese.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, add all the chopped vegetables, cheese, and ham. Gently mix them to avoid breaking the shape of the ingredients.

5. Seasoning the salad: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavors according to your preferences. If you like a spicier taste, feel free to add more pepper.

6. Adding the dressing: Finally, drizzle the salad with olive oil and vinegar or lemon juice. The olive oil will not only provide a wonderful taste but will also help with the absorption of vitamins from the vegetables. Mix well to ensure that all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing.

7. Serving: You can serve the salad immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. It is a perfect dish for hot summer days or as a side for a barbecue.

Useful tips:

- Recipe variations: You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, to get a different taste. You can also add avocado cubes or olives for extra texture and flavor.
- Pairing with other dishes: This salad pairs excellently with grilled chicken or a portion of grilled fish. You can also accompany it with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade, which will perfectly complement the flavors.
- Nutritional benefits: The salad with cheese and ham is rich in fiber, vitamins, and proteins, making it a healthy choice for any meal. The radishes are excellent for digestion, while the cheese and ham provide a good protein intake.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Absolutely! Carrots or bell peppers are excellent additions that will bring extra crunch and color.

2. How can I keep the salad fresh longer?
Keep the ingredients separate and mix them only before serving. The dressing can be added later to prevent the vegetables from wilting.

3. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe by removing the ham and cheese and adding tofu or tempeh for a protein boost.

In conclusion, the salad with cheese and ham is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the ingredients, customize it to your liking, and enjoy a delicious and healthy meal! Enjoy your meal!