Smoked Salmon Salad

Fresh salad with smoked salmon and crunchy vegetables

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't appreciate a fresh and tasty salad? This salad with smoked salmon and fresh vegetables is an excellent choice for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a healthy snack. It's not only easy to prepare but also full of flavors and nutrients, quickly becoming part of our favorite menu. Additionally, the smoked fish adds a special flavor note, transforming an ordinary salad into a true delight.

The history of fish salads is ancient, with deep roots in culinary traditions over time. Smoked fish, a preservation method used since ancient times, has inspired numerous recipes that combine fresh ingredients to create exceptional dishes.

Ingredients:
- 150 g smoked salmon (or any other preferred smoked fish)
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 red onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green chili pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, optional
- Fresh dill, optional

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. It's essential to use fresh vegetables to achieve a crunchy and flavorful salad. Choose cucumbers with thin skin, which are more tender and sweeter.

2. Cutting the ingredients: The cucumber slices should be thin rounds for easy mixing in the salad. The red onion can be sliced thinly or diced, depending on your preference. The red bell pepper, with its natural sweetness, is cut into strips or cubes, and the green chili pepper is sliced into rounds, including the seeds, to add a slight spiciness to the dish.

3. Parsley: Finely chop the fresh parsley. This will not only add a splash of color but also intensify the salad's flavor. Parsley is also rich in vitamins and minerals, providing additional nutritional benefits.

4. Smoked salmon: The slices of smoked salmon can be cut into thin strips. Make sure the salmon is of good quality, as its taste will influence the entire dish.

5. Mixing the salad: Place all the vegetables and parsley in a porcelain bowl or glass dish to keep them fresh and crunchy. Add the slices of smoked salmon.

6. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and add the olive oil and lemon juice. Gently mix so that the salmon doesn't crumble too much. Taste the salad and adjust the seasonings according to your preference, adding more salt or lemon juice if necessary.

7. Serving: The salad is ready to be served! You can choose to garnish it with a few fresh dill leaves for a more attractive appearance. It can be enjoyed on its own or served alongside a slice of toasted bread or crackers for added texture.

Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or grated carrots, to vary the taste and appearance of the salad.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a few slices of olives or capers.
- This salad pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a cold fruit tea, making it a perfect choice for a summer meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This salad is an excellent source of protein due to the smoked salmon, containing approximately 250 calories per serving. It is rich in omega-3, vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants, all contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of smoked fish?
Absolutely! You can experiment with herring, mackerel, or any other smoked fish you like.

2. Is the salad suitable for a diet?
Yes, this salad is light and healthy, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle.

3. How long does the salad last?
It is recommended to consume it immediately, but if you keep it in the refrigerator, it can be eaten within the next 24 hours.

So, don't hesitate any longer! Put on your apron and prepare this salad with smoked salmon and fresh vegetables. Whether you enjoy it for lunch or serve it as an appetizer at a dinner with friends, every bite will be an explosion of flavors and freshness. Enjoy your meal!