Let’s make a Piedmontese Salad (La salade piémontaise). This salad is a true classic when it comes to cold appetizers. Today, it’s a staple in many households as a light yet satisfying dish, especially perfect for summertime. It’s a wonderful accompaniment to barbecues, picnics, or simply as a flavorful side for lunch. It tastes especially delightful on a warm, sunny day.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes
- 5 medium potatoes
- 4 hard-boiled eggs
- 7 slightly salted or pickled cucumbers
- 7 ounces (200g) cooked ham (you can also use smoked ham for a different flavor profile)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or light cream
- A sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are tender but still firm enough to hold their shape (avoid overcooking). Once cooked, drain them and let them cool completely, you can speed this up by running them under cold water.
- Prep the Ingredients: Dice the cooled potatoes, tomatoes, and ham into similar-sized cubes. Slice the slightly salted or pickled cucumbers into rounds. Cut the hard-boiled eggs into eighths. Place all these beautifully prepared ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
- Whip Up the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (or light cream), and the chopped parsley. For an extra zing, you can whisk in a touch of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice – it really brightens up the flavors!
- Combine and Coat: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the pieces are nicely coated in the creamy dressing. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
- Chill for Flavor Fusion: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the salad even more delicious and refreshing.
Your Piedmontese Salad (La salade piémontaise) is ready to be served! Bon appétit!
This salad is incredibly adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to swap the ham for cooked chicken or even some flavorful sausage. You could also add diced apple for a touch of sweetness and crunch, some vibrant green peas, or even a bit of cubed hard cheese for extra texture and flavor. It’s the perfect go-to recipe when you need to whip up something satisfying, tasty, and versatile in a flash.