Onion salad with meatballs

Onion salad with meatballs - An explosion of flavors! On a hot summer day, nothing compares to a cold salad that not only refreshes but also delights the taste buds. Today, I propose a recipe that combines the sweet taste of onions with juicy meatballs, a combination that, although it may seem unusual, will pleasantly surprise your senses. This recipe has deep roots in culinary traditions, being appreciated by generations. You may not know it, but I assure you that once you try it, it will become a summer favorite! Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooling time: 1 hour Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Number of servings: 6 Ingredients for onion salad with meatballs: - 1 kg white onion - 1 bay leaf - 1 tablespoon peppercorns - 150 ml vinegar (preferably white wine) - Salt, to taste - 500 g minced beef (you can also use a mix of meats if you prefer) - 1 egg - 2 green onions, finely chopped - 2 teaspoons chopped wild thyme (or regular thyme) - 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs - 3 tablespoons milk - Oil for frying - 200 ml sour cream (choose a fatty sour cream for better taste) - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for extra creaminess) Step-by-step preparation: 1. Boiling the onions: Start by peeling the white onions and slicing them thinly, which you can then cut into julienne shape. Place the onions in a large pot, add 1 liter of water, the bay leaf, vinegar, salt, and peppercorns. Boil over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until the onions become translucent and slightly soft. You will be amazed by the wonderful aroma this mixture emits! 2. Draining the onions: Once the onions are ready, drain them well in a sieve (it is recommended to use a non-metal sieve to avoid reactions with the vinegar). Let the onions cool completely so that the flavor intensifies. 3. Preparing the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the minced beef with the egg, salt, breadcrumbs, milk, chopped green onions, and thyme. Mix well with a spatula or your hands (don't forget to oil your hands to avoid sticking). Form small balls (about 2-3 cm in diameter). These will be easy to fry and will integrate perfectly into the salad. 4. Frying the meatballs: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them until golden and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Use a paper towel to absorb excess oil after removing them from the pan. 5. Final mix: In a large bowl, mix the cooled onions with the sour cream and mayonnaise. Add the meatballs and mix gently so as not to break them. Put everything in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. 6. Serving: The salad is served cold, as an appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled meat. You can accompany it with fresh bread or a simple green salad. If you want to add a touch of freshness, you can sprinkle a little fresh dill on top before serving. It is an excellent choice for picnics or outdoor meals! Tips and Tricks: - If you want to add a spicy note, you can include a little chopped chili pepper in the meat mixture. - You can replace the beef with chicken or turkey for a lighter version of the recipe. - Store the boiled onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 3 days, making your preparations for a quick meal. Nutritional benefits: This salad is not only tasty but also full of nutrients! Onions are an excellent source of antioxidants and vitamins, while beef provides essential proteins and iron. Adding sour cream and mayonnaise brings healthy fats that help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use red onion instead of white onion? Yes, red onion will add a note of sweetness and vibrant color to the salad. 2. Can the meatballs be frozen? Absolutely! You can freeze the meatballs before frying them. Make sure they are well packaged to avoid freezer burn. 3. How can I make this salad lighter? You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise and sour cream or replace them with Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier version. This onion salad with meatballs is undoubtedly an inspired choice for hot summer days. I guarantee it will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces and quickly become a favorite recipe! So don't hesitate to try it and share this delicious discovery with others! Enjoy!