Peasant Salad

Peasant Salad: An Explosion of Flavor and Freshness

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a fresh salad, full of vibrant flavors and colors? The peasant salad is a true feast for the senses, a simple yet delicious combination of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and flavorful olives. This recipe has its roots in culinary traditions, based on local ingredients, but each housewife has added a personal touch, adapting it to her family's tastes and preferences.

I will show you how to prepare this peasant salad, which is not just a simple dish, but a true story of ingredients. Let's get started!

Ingredients:

- 3 ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 1 crunchy green bell pepper
- 1 refreshing cucumber
- 1 small red onion, for a hint of sweetness
- 200g salty, creamy sheep cheese
- 100g stuffed olives with peppers, for an extra burst of flavor
- 3-4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste

Ingredient details:

Tomatoes are the key to this recipe, so make sure to choose well-ripened, flavorful ones. Stuffed olives add a note of originality, but you can replace them with plain olives or even Kalamata olives for a more intense taste. Sheep cheese provides creaminess and a unique flavor; if you can't find this cheese, you can opt for feta or goat cheese. Extra virgin olive oil is not just an ingredient, but an essential element that enhances the flavors of the vegetables.

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well under a stream of cold water. Then, cut the tomatoes into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. The green bell pepper is cut into thin strips or cubes, and the cucumber into rounds or cubes, as you like. The red onion is finely chopped, and the cheese is cut into small cubes to integrate easily into the salad.

2. Mixing the vegetables: In a large bowl, add the tomatoes, bell pepper, cucumber, and onion. Gently mix to avoid crushing the vegetables. Then, add the cubes of sheep cheese and olives. It is important to mix carefully, so that each ingredient remains intact.

3. Seasoning the salad: Drizzle the salad with extra virgin olive oil and add salt to taste. Gently mix, being careful not to crush the vegetables. The olive oil will provide a note of richness and will bind all the flavors together.

4. Serving: The peasant salad can be served immediately, but for an even more intense flavor, let it sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to develop and combine harmoniously.

Practical tips:

- You can customize the salad by adding other vegetables, such as radishes or grated carrots, for added texture.
- If you prefer a spicier note, add a few slices of hot pepper or a little freshly ground black pepper.
- This salad goes wonderfully with fresh bread or polenta!

Nutritional benefits:

The peasant salad is not only tasty but also full of nutrients. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which helps protect the body from free radicals. Cucumber is an excellent source of hydration, having a high water content, while the red onion provides an important supply of vitamins and minerals. Sheep cheese offers proteins and calcium, essential for bone health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, depending on your tastes.

2. How can I store the salad?
The salad is best consumed fresh, but if there are leftovers, you can keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1-2 days.

3. What drinks pair well with the peasant salad?
A fresh lemonade or a dry white wine pairs wonderfully with this salad, bringing a pleasant contrast to the flavors of the vegetables.

Possible variations:

- Add avocado for a creamy texture and a healthy dose of fats.
- Replace the cheese with tofu for a vegan option.
- You can add croutons or toasted seeds for an extra crunch.

This peasant salad is not just a simple recipe, but an invitation to savor the freshness of natural ingredients. You can prepare it at any time of the day, whether it's for a quick lunch or a light dinner with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to try it and enjoy the authentic taste of nature!