Layered Ham and Mushroom Salad with Cheese and Apple

This layered ham and mushroom salad is a visually stunning and flavorful dish perfect for special occasions, festive gatherings, or as a show-stopping appetizer. It combines layers of savory ham, creamy processed cheese, tangy marinated mushrooms, crisp apples, and sweet carrots, all bound together with a creamy mayonnaise dressing. The salad is then beautifully garnished with pickled honey mushrooms, fresh cherry tomatoes, lettuce leaves, and suluguni cheese braid for a sophisticated touch. The addition of salted straws adds a delightful crunch, making this dish both a feast for the eyes and the palate. With its rich textures and flavors, this salad is sure to impress!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

  • 200 g ham (cubed or shredded)
  • 4 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1 medium carrot (boiled)
  • 1 apple (grated or finely chopped)
  • 1 jar (280 g) marinated champignons (drained and chopped)
  • 2 pieces of processed cheese (grated or cubed)
  • Mayonnaise (to taste, for dressing)

For Decoration:

  • Pickled honey mushrooms
  • Lettuce leaves
  • 4-5 cherry tomatoes
  • 240 g salted straws (to form the salad border)
  • Suluguni cheese braid (for garnish)

Steps to Make Layered Ham and Mushroom Salad with Cheese and Apple:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients Start by preparing the base ingredients of the salad:

  • Ham: Cube or shred the ham into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  • Eggs: Hard-boil the eggs by placing them in a pot of cold water, bringing it to a boil, then simmering for 10-12 minutes. After boiling, place the eggs in cold water to cool. Once cooled, peel the eggs and grate them or chop them finely.
  • Carrot: Peel and boil the carrot until tender (about 10 minutes), then let it cool. Grate the carrot finely once cooled.
  • Apple: Grate or finely chop the apple. You can peel it if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave the skin on for a slight crunch and added nutrients.
  • Marinated Champignons: Drain the marinated mushrooms from their jar and chop them into smaller pieces if necessary.
  • Processed Cheese: Grate or cut the processed cheese into small cubes.

Step 2: Begin Layering the Salad This salad is best served in a deep, round dish or mold to create clean, distinct layers. Alternatively, you can use a cake ring mold to achieve a circular, neat presentation.

  • First Layer: Begin by spreading a thin layer of mayonnaise at the base of the dish. Then, evenly distribute the cubed or shredded ham over the mayonnaise. Lightly press the layer down with a spoon to create a compact base.
  • Second Layer: Spread a layer of grated boiled eggs over the ham. Add a small amount of mayonnaise on top and gently spread it over the eggs to bind the layers together.
  • Third Layer: Add the grated carrot as the next layer. Lightly press it down, then spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on top to keep the salad moist and creamy.
  • Fourth Layer: Add the grated apple, which adds a fresh, sweet contrast to the savory ingredients. You can add just a touch of mayonnaise here to prevent the apple from browning, but this layer can remain mostly fruit-based.
  • Fifth Layer: Spread the marinated champignons evenly over the apple. If the mushrooms are in large pieces, chop them finely to ensure they mix well with the other layers.
  • Sixth Layer: Finally, add the grated or cubed processed cheese as the last layer. This cheese adds a creamy richness to the salad, bringing all the ingredients together. Add a final thin layer of mayonnaise on top to complete the salad structure.

Step 3: Chill the Salad After assembling the salad layers, cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to firm up. This also makes it easier to serve clean slices when it’s time to eat.

Step 4: Decorate the Salad Once the salad is well chilled and set, it’s time to decorate it.

  • Lettuce Leaves: Arrange fresh lettuce leaves around the base or sides of the salad for a pop of color and freshness.
  • Pickled Honey Mushrooms: Carefully place the pickled honey mushrooms on top of the salad to add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Halve the cherry tomatoes and arrange them around the edge of the salad or in the center for a burst of color.
  • Salted Straws: Stand the salted straws upright around the edge of the salad, creating a decorative border. This adds a crunchy texture to contrast with the creamy layers of the salad.
  • Suluguni Cheese Braid: Finally, garnish the salad with pieces of suluguni cheese braid, either placed on top or around the edge of the salad, giving it an artisanal touch.

Step 5: Serve Once the salad is decorated, it’s ready to be served. Slice the salad into portions, ensuring that each slice contains a bit of every layer, and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures. The freshness of the apple, the tanginess of the marinated mushrooms, the creamy cheese, and the savory ham come together beautifully, making this a salad that is both hearty and elegant.

Nutrition Facts (Per 100 g):

  • Calories: 190 kcal
  • Protein: 9 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 1.2 g
  • Sodium: 380 mg
  • Total Yield: Approximately 1,150 g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of marinated champignons? Yes, you can substitute marinated champignons with other marinated mushrooms such as shiitake or portobello. You can also use fresh sautéed mushrooms, but the marinated variety adds a nice tangy flavor.

2. Can I make this salad ahead of time? Absolutely! In fact, this salad tastes even better when made a few hours ahead, as the flavors have time to meld together. You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance, just be sure to cover and refrigerate it until serving.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of processed cheese? Yes, if you prefer, you can use a different cheese such as mozzarella or even cheddar. The processed cheese gives the salad a creamy texture, but feel free to choose a cheese that suits your taste.

4. Can I add other vegetables to the salad? Yes, you can add other vegetables such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or even corn for added color and texture. Just make sure the vegetables are chopped finely to blend well with the other ingredients.

Tips for Making the Best Layered Ham and Mushroom Salad:

  • Chill the Salad: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the layers to set and the flavors to develop.
  • Grate the Cheese Fresh: For the best flavor and texture, grate the processed cheese just before assembling the salad.
  • Use Fresh Lettuce and Tomatoes: When decorating, make sure your garnish items are fresh and crisp for the best presentation.

Storage Tips: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep the salted straws separate if possible, as they may lose their crunch when stored with the salad. This salad is not suitable for freezing due to the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables.

Conclusion: Layered Ham and Mushroom Salad with Cheese and Apple is a stunning and delicious dish that’s perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings. The combination of savory ham, sweet apples, tangy mushrooms, and creamy cheese creates a balanced flavor profile, while the decorative toppings make it an eye-catching centerpiece. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, this salad is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Enjoy this hearty, layered salad as part of your next celebration!