Vegetable salad with mayonnaise

Vegetable salad with mayonnaise in heart shape – a gift full of love

When it comes to dishes that convey emotions, vegetable salad with mayonnaise is among the most appreciated. This recipe is not only delicious but also has a unique aesthetic, making it perfect for special occasions. Whether you prepare it for a party, an anniversary, or as a gift for godparents, the salad will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Your basic ingredients

- 8 medium potatoes – Choose starchy potatoes that boil well.
- 4 carrots – Sweet carrots add a pleasant flavor and vibrant color.
- 150 g frozen peas – An excellent source of protein and vitamins.
- 3 pickled cucumbers – They will add a tangy taste and a crunchy texture.
- 4 pickled bell peppers – They will add a perfect sweet-sour note.
- ½ jar of mayonnaise – You can opt for store-bought or homemade mayonnaise; if you choose the homemade version, use one raw egg yolk and one boiled for an ideal creamy texture.
- Salt and pepper – Season to taste.

Ingredients for decoration

- 150 g black and green olives – These will beautifully complete the appearance of the salad.
- 1 carrot – Used for decoration.
- 1 red pickled bell pepper – For a splash of color and an intense flavor.

Step by step: Cooking and assembling

1. Boil the vegetables
Start by washing the potatoes and carrots, leaving them unpeeled to retain their nutrients. Place them in a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Boil over medium heat for 35-40 minutes until tender. In the last 10-15 minutes, add the frozen peas. They will be ready when they turn a bright green.

2. Cooling and peeling the vegetables
Once the vegetables are boiled, drain the water and let them cool. Once cooled, peel the potatoes and carrots. Cut them into small cubes, approximately the same size to ensure a uniform texture.

3. Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, add the potato, carrot, and pea cubes. Chop the pickled cucumbers and bell peppers into small cubes and add them to the bowl. Mix everything with mayonnaise, adding salt and pepper to taste. Ensure all ingredients are well coated with mayonnaise.

4. Shaping the salad
Choose a heart-shaped mold or any other desired shape. Fill the mold with the vegetable mixture, pressing gently to settle it well. Cover everything with a thin layer of mayonnaise.

5. Decorating the salad
Use halved black olives to form the first row around the edge of the heart. Continue with finely chopped red bell pepper, followed by halves of green olives. Then, add finely chopped boiled carrot, and finally, another row of black olives. In the center of the heart, place the remaining bell pepper for an attractive look.

Useful tips

- For perfect mayonnaise, ensure the ingredients are at room temperature. The oil should be added gradually and mixed continuously to achieve a creamy emulsion.
- A healthy alternative would be to replace some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, thus reducing calories and adding nutritional benefits.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables like celery or bell peppers for extra flavor. Also, for a touch of freshness, you can add chopped fresh dill.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the boiled vegetables. Potatoes and carrots provide complex carbohydrates, while peas offer protein and fiber. Mayonnaise, although tasty, should be consumed in moderation, but combined with vegetables makes this dish a balanced choice.

Serving suggestion

For a pleasant culinary experience, serve the vegetable salad with mayonnaise alongside fresh bread or for a delicious contrast, you can add some slices of sausage or a cheese platter.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh peas, but you will need to boil them longer to soften.

2. How can I store the salad?
The salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I make the salad a day in advance?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavor improves as the ingredients have time to meld.

Experiment with this recipe and bring your own style to preparing vegetable salad with mayonnaise. Whether you use it as an appetizer or a side dish, it will surely be a hit!