Beef Salad (for Christmas)

Beef salad – a traditional recipe that is a must-have on Christmas tables, bringing family and friends together around a festive meal. This salad, with a savory mix of meat and vegetables, is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a visual joy on any platter. Let’s discover together how to prepare this classic recipe step by step, ensuring a perfect result every time.

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

Ingredients

For the salad:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 300 g)
- 600 g potatoes
- 6 pickled cucumbers
- 5 pickled peppers
- 4 carrots
- 200 g frozen peas
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

For the mayonnaise:
- 600 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil for a subtler taste)
- 2 hard-boiled egg yolks
- 2 raw egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon mustard (preferably Dijon for a more complex flavor)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- A pinch of salt

Preparation steps

Step 1: Cooking the chicken breast
We start by washing the chicken breast under cold running water. Then, we place it in a pot with enough cold water to cover it completely. We let it boil over medium heat, skimming off the foam that forms on the surface with a ladle. This step is essential for achieving tender meat and a clear broth. When the meat is cooked (about 20-25 minutes), we remove it from the pot and reserve the broth to cook the vegetables.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables
We add the peeled and diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and frozen peas to the same pot. We let everything boil for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but not mushy. It’s important not to overcook them to maintain their texture.

Step 3: Preparing the fresh ingredients
While the vegetables are boiling, we dice the pickled cucumbers and peppers and let them drain in a colander. This step helps remove excess water, so the salad doesn’t become watery.

Step 4: Chopping the vegetables and meat
Once the vegetables are boiled, we remove them from the water and let them cool. When they are cold, we chop them into cubes (except for the peas, which remain whole). We also chop the chicken breast into cubes.

Step 5: Preparing the mayonnaise
To achieve perfect mayonnaise, we start by mixing the two hard-boiled yolks with the two raw yolks, adding a pinch of salt and the mustard. We whisk well, then gradually add the oil, alternating with the lemon juice, until the mayonnaise becomes thick and creamy. It’s essential to add the oil gradually to prevent the mayonnaise from curdling.

Step 6: Assembling the salad
In a large bowl, we combine all the vegetables, chicken breast, and peas. We season with salt and pepper, then add the mayonnaise (reserving 2-3 tablespoons for decoration). We mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 7: Decorating the salad
We transfer the salad to a platter and dress it with the remaining mayonnaise. Using thin strips of cucumber and pepper, we can create a Christmas crown for a special festive look. This detail will not only impress guests but also add a touch of freshness.

Practical tips
- Choose quality meat: Chicken breast is classic, but you can also try other types of meat (e.g., turkey or pork) for a tastier variant.
- Try fresh vegetables: If you prefer, you can use fresh vegetables, but make sure to cook them enough to remain crunchy.
- Mayonnaise: If you want a lighter version, you can replace part of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie option.
- Vary the ingredients: Add green or black olives for a different taste. They bring a flavor note and an interesting texture.
- Serve with white wine: Beef salad pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine that will complement the flavors of the main dish.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can experiment with turkey or even beef, depending on your preferences.

2. What can I do with the leftover mayonnaise?
The remaining mayonnaise can be used as a dressing for other salads or as a spread for sandwiches.

3. How can I keep the beef salad fresh?
Store the salad in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It stays good for 2-3 days but is best on the day it is made.

Nutritional benefits
Beef salad is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken and egg yolks. Additionally, the vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals, and although mayonnaise is calorie-rich, it can be made lighter by replacing some ingredients. With a serving of beef salad, you ensure a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for the holidays.

Conclusion
This beef salad recipe is more than just an appetizer; it is a tradition that unites generations around the Christmas table. With each bite, you will feel not only the delicious taste but also the warmth and joy of the holidays. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!

 Ingredients: a chicken breast 600 g potatoes 6 pickled cucumbers 5 pickled peppers 4 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 a pinch of salt

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