Beef Salad (for Christmas)

Beef Salad – The Christmas Indulgence

Christmas is a holiday filled with traditions, and beef salad is undoubtedly one of the stars of festive meals. This classic recipe, with deep roots in our cuisine, brings together varied flavors, delicious textures, and a presentation that is sure to impress guests. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients, beef salad becomes a true work of art on the holiday table. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients

For the salad:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 600 g)
- 600 g potatoes
- 4 medium carrots
- 5 pickled cucumbers
- 5 pickled peppers
- 200 g frozen peas
- salt and pepper to taste

For the mayonnaise:
- 600 ml oil (for a creamy mayonnaise)
- 2 boiled egg yolks
- 2 raw egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- juice of one lemon
- salt to taste

Step by step

1. Boiling the chicken breast:
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Then, place it in a large pot, cover it with cold water, and add a little salt. Put the pot on medium heat and let the meat boil. Remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This will help achieve a clearer broth.

2. Boiling the vegetables:
After the chicken breast is fully cooked (about 20-25 minutes), remove it from the pot and let it cool. In the resulting broth, add the diced potatoes and let them boil for 10 minutes. Then, add the sliced carrots and frozen peas and continue boiling for another 10 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

3. Preparing the ingredients:
Meanwhile, chop the cucumbers and peppers into small cubes and let them drain in a colander to remove excess juice. This step will prevent the salad from becoming watery.

4. Chopping the vegetables:
When the vegetables are fully cooked, remove them from the water and let them cool completely. Then, chop them into small cubes, being careful to keep the peas whole.

5. Preparing the mayonnaise:
In a large bowl, mix the boiled egg yolks with the raw ones, a pinch of salt, and the mustard. Using a whisk, gradually add the oil, alternating with the lemon juice, so that the mayonnaise emulsifies well. Continue mixing until you achieve a creamy and airy consistency.

6. Mixing the salad:
In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, boiled vegetables, cucumbers, and peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the mayonnaise, reserving 2-3 tablespoons for garnish, and gently mix everything to avoid crushing the ingredients.

7. Presentation:
Transfer the salad to a large platter and use the remaining mayonnaise to coat the salad evenly. Using small strips of cucumber and pepper, create a Christmas wreath shape, adding a festive touch to the dish.

Serving suggestions

Beef salad is perfect to be served alongside fresh bread or lightly toasted flatbreads. You can pair it with a dry white wine or a berry cocktail, which will add a note of freshness to the meal. During the holidays, this salad is often accompanied by other traditional dishes, such as stuffed cabbage or pork roast.

Useful tips

- For perfect mayonnaise: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. If the mayonnaise does not emulsify, add a teaspoon of warm water and continue mixing.
- Variations: You can add olives or chopped boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Beef salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Nutritional benefits

Beef salad is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken breast and provides carbohydrates from the vegetables. In addition, it contains essential vitamins from the vegetables, contributing to a balanced diet. However, since it is made with mayonnaise, it is best to consume it in moderation, especially if you are mindful of caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use beef instead of chicken? Yes, it is a popular variation and offers a different flavor. Make sure to boil the meat long enough for it to be tender.
- How can I make the salad lighter? You can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a healthier option.
- Can it be prepared a day in advance? Absolutely! Beef salad tastes even better the next day when the flavors meld perfectly.

The entire experience of preparing beef salad can be a true pleasure, and the result will surely bring joy and smiles to the faces of your loved ones. If you want a memorable festive meal, don't forget this classic dish, which will add a touch of elegance and tradition to the table. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: a chicken breast 600 g potatoes 6 pickled cucumbers 5 pickled peppers 4 medium carrots 200 g frozen peas salt pepper For mayonnaise: 600 ml oil 2 boiled egg yolks 2 raw egg yolks 1 teaspoon mustard lemon juice salt