Salad with broad beans, ham, carrots, garlic, and mayonnaise

Delicious salad with broad beans, ham, carrots, garlic, and mayonnaise

If you're looking for a simple yet extremely flavorful recipe that delights both the eyes and the taste buds, I invite you to discover this salad with broad beans, ham, carrots, garlic, and mayonnaise. This recipe is not only an excellent choice for everyday meals but also a perfect accompaniment for special occasions. It will surprise you with its creamy texture and rich flavor!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 300 g broad beans (dried)
- 2 medium carrots
- 200 g chicken ham (or any preferred type of ham)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley leaves
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- Oil (approximately 200 ml)
- 100 g sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste

The history of the bean salad is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Beans, a versatile and nutritious ingredient, have been appreciated for centuries due to their rich content of protein and fiber. Combined with ham and crunchy vegetables, this salad pays homage to the simplicity and flavor of traditional dishes, making it ideal for family meals or picnics.

Preparing the broad bean salad:

1. Preparing the beans: Start by washing the broad beans well under cold running water. Then, put them to boil in a large pot with water and a teaspoon of salt. Boil the beans for about 40-60 minutes, or until tender. Make sure to test them occasionally to avoid overcooking.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, peel the carrots and grate them to obtain thin, fine strips. Cut the ham into small cubes so that it integrates perfectly into the salad. The garlic should be crushed, so use a garlic press or a knife to turn it into a fragrant paste.

3. Preparing the mayonnaise: In a bowl, place the egg yolk and mustard. With a whisk, start mixing vigorously, gradually adding the oil. Continue to add oil until you obtain a thick and creamy mayonnaise. Finally, add the sour cream to thin out the mayonnaise and give it a fluffier texture.

4. Mixing the ingredients: After the beans have boiled, drain them and let them cool slightly. In a large bowl, combine the beans, grated carrot, diced ham, crushed garlic, and finely chopped parsley. Add the mayonnaise and mix well to achieve a uniform consistency.

5. Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. It is important to listen to your personal tastes, so feel free to add more garlic or mustard if you desire a stronger flavor.

6. Cooling the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to blend and intensify.

Serving and suggestions:

Once the salad has chilled, it is ready to be served. You can place it on a beautiful platter and decorate it with fresh parsley leaves or carrot slices for an attractive appearance. This salad pairs wonderfully with a slice of toasted bread or crunchy crackers.

For an extra flavor boost, you can add some green or black olives, which will bring a pleasant contrast of flavors. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine or fresh lemonade are ideal accompaniments for a perfect meal.

Nutritional benefits:

This salad is rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, thanks to its healthy ingredients. Broad beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, while carrots provide an important supply of beta-carotene, beneficial for vision. Chicken ham adds flavor and protein, while garlic has antimicrobial and anticancer properties.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Make sure to rinse them well before use.

2. How can I make the salad spicier?
If you enjoy spicy dishes, you can add some chopped chili pepper or chili sauce to the mayonnaise.

3. Is the salad good the next day?
Yes, this salad keeps well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed the next day. The flavor will even become more intense!

Possible variations:

To diversify the recipe, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers or cherry tomatoes. You can also use different types of meat, such as ham or even tuna, to give your salad a unique touch.

Conclusion:

This salad with broad beans, ham, carrots, garlic, and mayonnaise is not just a simple recipe but an explosion of flavors and colors that will delight family and friends. I invite you to try it and enjoy a healthy and tasty dish, full of dear memories and beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!