The 7th heaven

Salad "The 7th Heaven": a refined combination of tuna and oranges

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Who hasn't dreamed at least once of a dish that combines unique flavors and surprises with its appearance? The "7th Heaven" salad is exactly this type of culinary creation, a recipe that brings together salty tuna, the sweetness of oranges, and the crunchy texture of apples, all bound together by a creamy layer of mayonnaise. This elegant appetizer is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a true work of art on the plate.

Origins of the recipe

Salad recipes have a long and varied history, adapting over time to the ingredients available and the culinary preferences of each generation. The "7th Heaven" salad combines traditional elements, such as boiled eggs and mayonnaise, with fresh notes brought by fruits. This salad is often appreciated during holidays, being a perfect appetizer for festive meals.

Ingredients

- 1 can of tuna in oil (about 150-200 g)
- 4 eggs
- 2 tart apples (preferably green apples)
- 1 large orange
- 200 g cheese (preferably aged cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Mayonnaise (about 200 g)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Necessary utensils

- Pot for boiling eggs
- Grater
- Bowl for mixing the ingredients
- Plate or platter for presentation
- Spatula for spreading the mayonnaise

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by boiling the eggs. Place them in a pot with cold water and let them boil for 10-12 minutes. Once boiled, cool them under a stream of cold water, then peel and chop them finely.
Meanwhile, drain the tuna from the can, letting it drain well. Use a fork to flake it.

2. Cutting the fruits
Wash the apples and orange. Cut the apples into small cubes and the orange into slices, then cut the slices into cubes. These fruits will add a sweet and tart note to the salad.

3. Grating the cheese
Use a grater with small holes to grate the cheese. Make sure to grate it fresh to benefit from its full flavor.

4. Assembling the salad
Take a large platter and start assembling the salad in layers. The first layer will be half of the flaked tuna.
Continue with a layer of boiled eggs, followed by a layer of apples sprinkled with a little black pepper. Add another layer of eggs, followed by the remaining tuna.
Now, add the orange cubes, and finally, sprinkle the grated cheese on top.

5. Finishing and decorating
On top of the cheese layer, drizzle the mayonnaise in the shape of little clouds. Let your imagination run wild and create shapes, perhaps even a sun or flowers, to add a splash of color and creativity.
Let the salad chill for at least an hour before serving, to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serving
Serve the "7th Heaven" salad as an appetizer at festive meals or on weekends. You can accompany it with a fresh baguette or crackers to add a crunchy texture.

Useful tips

- Mayonnaise: You can use store-bought or homemade mayonnaise. If you opt for homemade mayonnaise, you will achieve a fresher and more personalized taste.
- Variations: You can experiment with other ingredients, such as green olives or cherry tomatoes, to add an extra note of flavor.
- Chilling: Give the salad enough time to chill and for the flavors to combine. It is ideal to prepare it the night before serving.

Nutritional benefits

This salad is rich in protein due to the tuna and eggs, while the apples and orange provide a generous intake of vitamins and antioxidants. The cheese adds essential calcium for bone health. Although it contains mayonnaise, the main ingredient is tuna, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use tuna in water instead of tuna in oil?
Yes, but I recommend adding a little olive oil to compensate for the lack of fat.

2. How can I make the salad lighter?
You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter and creamier version.

3. Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Pineapple or kiwi could provide an exotic and surprising note.

Perfect combinations

The "7th Heaven" salad pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as a citrus cocktail or a glass of prosecco. It can also be served alongside a creamy vegetable soup for a complete and balanced meal.

In conclusion, the "7th Heaven" salad is not just a delicious dish but also a culinary experience that will bring joy to everyone who tastes it. Whether you serve it on special occasions or simply on an ordinary day, it will surely be a reason for admiration. So embrace creativity in the kitchen and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!