Viennese Salad with Cheese Cream

Viennese salad with cream cheese - A light and flavorful snack

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

The history of the Viennese salad reminds us of the refinement and elegance of past dishes, being a perfect example of a combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients. This salad is ideal for an energizing breakfast, a light dinner, or a sophisticated appetizer at various events. Whether served on a slice of toasted bread or on its own, its fresh taste and creamy texture will delight the taste buds.

Ingredients:
- 200 g cream cheese (Exquisa or Philadelphia)
- 150 g sour cream (preferably with a higher fat content)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 150 g fatty cheese
- 4-5 larger radishes
- 2 pickled cucumbers
- 10-15 green chives
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- Fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients on a clean work surface. It is essential that all ingredients are fresh, especially the cheese and sour cream, to achieve a salad with a remarkable taste.

2. Mixing the cream:
In a large bowl, add the cream cheese, sour cream, and mustard. Use a wooden spoon to mix the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous composition. This will be the creamy base of your salad.

3. Adding the olive oil:
Continue mixing and gradually add the olive oil, making sure to incorporate it well. The olive oil will not only improve the texture but will also add a subtle flavor that will beautifully complement the other ingredients.

4. Preparing the vegetables:
Grate the radishes on a large grater, but make sure to squeeze out the excess juice so that the salad does not become too watery. Cut the fatty cheese into small cubes to integrate perfectly into the salad. The pickled cucumbers should also be diced into small cubes.

5. Chopping the greens:
Wash and chop the fresh dill, and finely chop the green chives. Both greens will add a fresh aroma and a touch of freshness to the salad.

6. Finalizing the salad:
Add the grated radishes, cheese, pickled cucumbers, chives, and dill to the bowl with the cream cheese. Squeeze in the lemon juice to provide a splash of acidity and a balanced taste. Season with salt and pepper to taste and mix well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Refrigerating:
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become cooler.

8. Serving:
The salad is now ready to be served! You can place it on a slice of toasted bread, on savory crackers, or simply in an elegant bowl. Add a few fresh dill leaves on top for an attractive visual presentation.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as bell peppers or grated carrots, to add a crunchy note and a variety of colors.
- If you prefer a less dense salad, you can add a tablespoon or two of Greek yogurt.
- The salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy its texture and flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is rich in protein due to the cheese and sour cream, also providing a good source of calcium. Radishes are rich in vitamins C and B, while chives bring beneficial antioxidants and minerals.

Delicious combinations:
For a complete meal, you can pair this salad with a creamy vegetable soup or a platter of cheeses and cold cuts. A refreshing drink, such as lemonade or a fruit cocktail, will perfectly complement the culinary experience.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace the cream cheese with another ingredient?
Yes, you can try Greek yogurt or goat cheese for a different taste.
- What other herbs can I use?
Instead of dill and chives, you can use basil or parsley for a different flavor.

It is a simple salad, but full of character, which will surely become a favorite in your home. So, enjoy your meal and happy cooking!