Olivier Salad

Olivieh Salad - A Delicious Delicacy Full of Flavor and History

If you want to impress your guests with an unusual salad but with a familiar taste, Olivieh Salad is the perfect choice! This savory dish, often confused with the famous beef salad, is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients rich in flavors. Originating from Asian regions, Olivieh Salad has gained popularity over time due to its versatility and unlimited customization possibilities. It can be served both as an appetizer and as a main dish, and for those who love diversity, it can easily transform into a delicious sandwich.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total: 70 minutes
Number of Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 10 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300-400 g)
- 3 hard-boiled eggs
- Pickled cucumbers (to taste, I recommend 4-5 cucumbers)
- 200 g of peas (preferably frozen)
- 200 ml homemade mayonnaise (or store-bought, but preferably of high quality)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (preferably Dijon)
- Juice from half a lemon or lime
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Olives and slices of tomatoes for decoration

Step by Step:

1. Boiling the ingredients: Start by boiling the potatoes with their skins. Make sure to choose medium-sized ones so they cook evenly. Boil the potatoes for 20-25 minutes, depending on their size. Check them with a fork; if it goes in easily, they are ready. After boiling, let them cool slightly, then peel and cut them into cubes.

2. Preparing the carrots and chicken breast: Meanwhile, peel the carrots and cut them in half. You can add them to a pot of boiling water along with the chicken breast. Boil everything for 15-20 minutes until the carrots are tender and the chicken is cooked through. Once boiled, remove the meat and let it cool before cutting it into small cubes.

3. Boiling the eggs: In another pot, boil the eggs for 10 minutes. Once boiled, transfer them to cold water to stop the cooking process. After cooling, peel them and cut them into cubes.

4. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, combine the cubes of potatoes, carrots, chicken breast, boiled eggs, and peas. Add the diced pickled cucumbers, adjusting the quantity according to your preferences.

5. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the mustard and lemon or lime juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will add a note of acidity and bind all the ingredients in perfect harmony.

6. Finalizing the salad: Pour the dressing over the mixture of ingredients and gently mix, being careful not to mash the potatoes. The dish should be homogeneous but with texture.

7. Serving and decorating: Transfer the Olivieh Salad to a serving platter. Garnish with olives and fresh tomato slices for an appetizing look. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Practical Tips:

- For homemade mayonnaise: If you want to make mayonnaise at home, mix 1 egg yolk with 1 teaspoon of mustard, gradually add oil, and continuously mix until you achieve a creamy consistency. You can also add lemon juice for more acidity.

- Variations of ingredients: You can add green or black olives, bell peppers, or even nuts for added crunch. You can also replace the chicken breast with ham or canned tuna for a quicker version.

- Alternative serving: Olivieh Salad can be used as a filling for sandwiches or as a side dish for meat pastries. It is perfect for picnics or festive meals.

Nutritional Benefits:

Olivieh Salad is rich in protein due to the chicken breast and eggs, providing energy and supporting muscle mass. Potatoes and carrots bring complex carbohydrates and fiber, essential for healthy digestion. Peas contribute vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, thus enriching the nutritional profile of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- What is the best way to store Olivieh Salad?
It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Consume it within 2-3 days to enjoy the freshness of the ingredients.

- Can I replace the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative to reduce calories and fats. The taste will be different, but the salad will remain delicious.

- What drinks pair well with Olivieh Salad?
A refreshing drink, such as fresh lemonade or a fruit cocktail, will perfectly complement the flavors of the salad. Additionally, a dry white wine can be an excellent choice for a festive meal.

In conclusion, Olivieh Salad is a versatile, easy-to-make dish full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combination that delights you the most! It will surely become a favorite on your menu!