This wonderful Christmas salad is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings! With its vibrant colors and delicious blend of flavors, it brings a festive touch to any table. Here’s the full recipe for this delightful dish that had my family thrilled:
Ingredients:
- 3 carrots, grated
- 7 eggs, hard-boiled and chopped
- 200 grams canned ham, diced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 200 grams canned peas, drained
- 180 grams canned corn, drained
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons natural yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Grate the carrots and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Chop the hard-boiled eggs and add them to the bowl.
- Dice the canned ham and red pepper, then add them to the bowl.
- Drain the canned peas and corn, and add them to the mixture.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, natural yogurt, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a smooth dressing.
- Combine and Toss:
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large mixing bowl.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined and evenly coated with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Serve the salad cold, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
Why This Salad is Perfect for the Holidays
This Christmas salad is not only vibrant and festive but also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of grated carrots, hard-boiled eggs, diced ham, and red pepper creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The canned peas and corn add a touch of sweetness, while the creamy mayonnaise and yogurt dressing ties everything together with a smooth, tangy finish.
Nutritional Benefits
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, fiber, vitamin K, and potassium, carrots add a healthy crunch to the salad.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein, vitamins D and B12, and essential amino acids.
- Ham: Adds a savory flavor and a good source of protein.
- Red Pepper: Rich in vitamins A and C, adding color and crunch.
- Peas and Corn: Offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to the overall nutritional profile of the dish.
Preparation Tips
- Grating the Carrots: Use a box grater or a food processor to grate the carrots quickly and evenly.
- Hard-Boiling the Eggs: For perfectly hard-boiled eggs, place them in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, then let simmer for 9-12 minutes. Transfer to ice water to cool before chopping.
- Dicing the Ham and Red Pepper: Ensure even-sized pieces for a balanced bite in every forkful.
Serving Suggestions
This Christmas salad can be served as a side dish or a light main course. Here are some serving ideas:
- Holiday Feast: Pair it with roasted turkey, ham, or beef for a complete holiday meal.
- Potluck Parties: This salad is easy to transport and serves well at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for potlucks.
- Everyday Meals: Enjoy it as a refreshing and nutritious lunch or dinner option during the holiday season.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this salad is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize it:
- Add Fruits: Incorporate diced apples, cranberries, or pomegranate seeds for a sweet twist.
- Nuts and Seeds: Add a handful of chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Cheese: Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy addition.
Storage Tips
This salad can be made a few hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, it’s best enjoyed on the same day to maintain the crispness of the vegetables. If you need to store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Conclusion
This festive Christmas salad is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and colors that embodies the joy of the holiday season. Easy to prepare and loved by all ages, it’s a perfect addition to your holiday recipe repertoire. Serve it at your next gathering and watch as it becomes a new family favorite!