Smoked fish and purple carrot salad

Smoked Fish Salad with Colorful Carrots - A Delicacy Full of Love

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction

In a world filled with saturated fats and processed foods, there is a dish that reminds us of simplicity, freshness, and love: smoked fish salad. This recipe is not just a mix of ingredients, but a story we share with our loved ones at festive meals or quiet evenings. With a combination of smoked fish, colorful vegetables, and creamy mayonnaise, this salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

- 1 smoked fish (preferably mackerel)
- 2 orange carrots
- 2 purple carrots
- 2 potatoes
- 1 onion
- 200 g mayonnaise (preferably homemade)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Ingredient Details

Smoked fish, such as mackerel, adds an intense flavor and delicious aroma. Make sure to choose high-quality, freshly smoked fish for the best results. The orange and purple carrots are not just an aesthetic choice but also a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins. The onion adds a crunchy note and a bit of spiciness, while the creamy mayonnaise binds all the ingredients in perfect harmony.

Preparing the Ingredients

1. Cleaning the fish: Start by removing the skin and bones from the fish. Use a sharp knife to remove the skin, then break the fish into medium-sized strips. Be sure to check carefully for any remaining bones.

2. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Peel and cut the potatoes and carrots into large cubes. Add the vegetables to the water when it starts to boil. Boil for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender but not too soft.

3. Cooling the vegetables: After the vegetables are boiled, drain them and let them cool to room temperature. This step is essential, as hot vegetables could melt the mayonnaise, turning the salad into an unappetizing paste.

4. Slicing the onion: Meanwhile, peel the onion and slice it thinly. If you want to reduce the intensity of the flavor, you can soak it in cold water for a few minutes.

Mixing the Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, add the strips of smoked fish, the boiled and cooled vegetables, the sliced onion, and the mayonnaise.

2. Using a silicone spatula, gently mix the ingredients to avoid crushing the vegetables. Add salt and pepper to taste, personalizing the salad according to your preferences.

3. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This time allows the flavors to blend, resulting in a fresh and delicious salad.

Serving Suggestions

This smoked fish salad can be served on a bed of green salad leaves or on slices of toasted bread for an elegant appetizer. A garnish of fresh lemon will add a splash of acidity, balancing the richness of the mayonnaise.

Possible Variations

If you want to explore, you can add green or black olives for a Mediterranean touch, or even some diced avocado for an extra creamy texture. You can also replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter yet equally tasty version.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also healthy! Smoked fish is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. Both orange and purple carrots are rich in beta-carotene, vitamin A, and antioxidants, contributing to skin and eye health. The onion adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, also having anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of fish? Yes, you can use any smoked fish you prefer, such as herring or salmon.
- How can I make mayonnaise at home? Mayonnaise can be easily made by mixing an egg yolk with oil, mustard, and lemon juice until you get a smooth cream.
- How long can the salad be kept in the fridge? The salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh for the best flavors.

Conclusion

Smoked fish salad with colorful carrots is not just a delicious dish, but also a true culinary masterpiece that brings not only flavor but also color to the table. It will surely be appreciated by everyone who tries it. So gather your friends or family, put on your favorite music, and enjoy this love-filled salad together!