Warm pea salad

Warm Pea Salad: A Healthy Delight for Lunch

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 2

Who said that a diet has to be monotonous and bland? The warm pea salad is a perfect example that healthy food can also be tasty! This recipe was inspired by the desire to bring a hearty and nutrient-rich meal without compromising the diet. Ideal for Andrei's lunch, this salad can quickly become anyone's favorite, even for those who are not on a diet!

A Brief History

Peas, a versatile ingredient, have been known since ancient times, appreciated for their sweet taste and nutritional benefits. They are rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them an excellent ingredient in healthy meals. This warm salad combines the fluffy texture of peas with the intense flavors of meat and fresh vegetables, offering an explosion of tastes.

Ingredients

- 150 g beef (or alternatively chicken breast, turkey, or lean pork)
- 150 g cherry tomatoes
- 4 tablespoons cooked green peas
- 2 green garlic stalks
- 2 sprigs of fresh parsley
- 1/2 chili pepper (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1 teaspoon rice oil
- 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
- 3-4 g salt (to taste)

Step by Step: Preparing the Salad

1. Preparing the meat: Start by slicing the beef into thin, narrow strips. This will help it cook evenly and absorb flavors. Sprinkle salt on the meat and brush it with a little rice oil to prevent sticking on the grill.

2. Cooking the meat: Preheat the grill (or pan) over medium heat. Place the strips of meat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning them on all sides to brown evenly. The meat is ready when it reaches a juicy yet well-cooked consistency.

3. Preparing the peas: Meanwhile, in a bowl, add the cooked green peas (you can use frozen peas that cook quickly). Add the chopped green garlic, freshly cut parsley, and chili pepper if you want a touch of heat.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Cut the cherry tomatoes in half and add them to the bowl with the peas. They will bring a sweet note and a special freshness to the salad.

5. Seasoning: Pour the balsamic vinegar and the remaining rice oil over the vegetable mix. Add salt to taste and mix everything well to combine the flavors.

6. Final combination: Once the meat is cooked, add it to the bowl with the peas and vegetables. If you prefer, you can cut the meat into smaller pieces for better integration into the salad.

7. Serving: Serve the warm salad on a platter, garnished with a few fresh parsley leaves for a colorful and appetizing appearance.

Practical Tips

- Variety of meat: If you want to change the recipe a bit, chicken breast or turkey are excellent alternatives, being low in fat and high in protein.
- Creative additions: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as grated carrots or bell peppers, to enrich the salad.
- Preparation in advance: If you're in a hurry, you can prepare all the ingredients in advance and combine them quickly before serving.

Delicious Combinations

This warm pea salad pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as mint tea or a berry smoothie. It is also an excellent choice to be served alongside a slice of toasted whole-grain bread or a portion of quinoa for an energy boost.

Nutritional Benefits

This salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Peas contain plant-based proteins, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals. Beef provides high-quality proteins, while cherry tomatoes bring antioxidants that help maintain skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen peas? Yes, frozen peas are an excellent option. Make sure they are cooked before adding them to the salad.
- How can I store the salad for later consumption? It is recommended to consume the salad immediately, but you can keep it in the fridge for a day. Make sure the meat is well covered.
- Can I make the salad vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the meat and add tofu or tempeh for a protein-rich alternative.

With this warm pea salad recipe, not only will you enjoy a healthy and delicious lunch, but you will also impress your loved ones with your culinary skills. Savor every bite and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!