Iceberg Salad

Iceberg Salad Recipe - Authentic Icelandic Cuisine

Region / culture: Iceland | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Iceberg salad is a classic and refreshing dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. This salad is made with crisp iceberg lettuce, colorful bell peppers, pickled beets, shredded cucumber, carrots, and topped with a creamy thousand island dressing. It is a simple yet delicious salad that is sure to please everyone at the table.

History

Iceberg salad has been a popular dish for many years, known for its crunchy texture and fresh flavors. The combination of ingredients in this salad has been enjoyed by many people around the world, making it a timeless classic.

Ingredients

2 eggs
0.5 head of iceberg lettuce, julienned
0.5 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
0.5 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
1 (15 oz (425 g)) can of sliced pickled beets, julienned
1 small cucumber, shredded
2 large carrots, shredded
8 tbsp of thousand island dressing

How to prepare

Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them completely with cold water.
Bring the water to a boil.
Cover the saucepan, remove it from the heat, and let the eggs stand in the hot water for 10 to 12 minutes.
Remove the eggs from the hot water and allow them to cool.
Peel and chop the eggs.
In a large bowl, or in individual bowls, combine the lettuce, bell peppers, beets, eggs, cucumber, and carrots.
Toss the ingredients together and serve the dressing on the side.

Variations

Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Swap out the thousand island dressing for a vinaigrette or ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to julienne or thinly slice the vegetables for a uniform and visually appealing salad.

- Make sure to cool the boiled eggs completely before chopping them to prevent them from becoming mushy.

- Serve the dressing on the side to allow guests to add as much or as little as they prefer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this iceberg salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the eggs until they are hard-boiled for the perfect texture.

- Shred the vegetables for a crunchy and easy-to-eat salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any type of bell pepper you prefer or have on hand.

- Substitute the thousand island dressing with your favorite salad dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the vegetables and dressing ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving for a quick and easy meal option.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in individual bowls or on a large platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a light and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the vegetables will become soggy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 180 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 18g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and mayonnaise, which are common allergens.

Summary

This salad is a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein, making it a well-rounded and nutritious meal option.

Summary

Iceberg salad is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its crisp lettuce, colorful vegetables, and creamy dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I had been invited to a potluck picnic at my friend Martha's house. As I was pondering what dish to bring, I remembered a conversation I had with my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins about a delicious salad she used to make for her family. She had called it "Iceberg Salad" and described it as a refreshing and crunchy mix of vegetables with a tangy dressing.

I decided to give it a try and asked Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe. She was more than happy to share it with me, and that's how I came to discover one of my favorite summer dishes. The ingredients were simple: a head of iceberg lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and a homemade vinaigrette dressing made with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and herbs.

I remember the first time I made the Iceberg Salad. I carefully washed and chopped all the vegetables, then tossed them together in a big bowl. The colors were vibrant and inviting, and the smell of the fresh ingredients filled my kitchen. I drizzled the dressing over the salad and gave it a good toss to ensure that every piece was coated.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that sunny day at the picnic. The flavors were crisp and bright, the dressing tangy and zesty. It was a hit with everyone at the potluck, and I was proud to have found such a delicious and easy recipe to add to my collection.

Over the years, I have made the Iceberg Salad countless times for family gatherings, picnics, and dinner parties. It has become a staple in my repertoire, a go-to dish that never fails to impress. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or some toasted nuts for extra crunch. But the core ingredients and flavors remain the same, simple yet satisfying.

What I love most about the Iceberg Salad is its versatility. It can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main course with some crusty bread on the side. It is a light and refreshing option for hot summer days, and the perfect way to showcase the bounty of the season's produce.

As I sit here reminiscing about the first time I made the Iceberg Salad, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful recipes and culinary experiences that have come into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to connect with my loved ones and share a piece of myself with others.

I am thankful for Mrs. Jenkins and her generosity in sharing the recipe with me, and for all the friends and family who have enjoyed my Iceberg Salad over the years. It may seem like a simple dish, but to me, it represents so much more – a connection to the past, a celebration of friendship, and a reminder of the joy that can be found in something as humble as a bowl of vegetables dressed in vinaigrette.

So the next time you are looking for a light and refreshing salad to serve at your next gathering, I urge you to give the Iceberg Salad a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe it will become a beloved recipe in your own collection, just as it has in mine. Cheers to good food, good friends, and the simple pleasures of a well-made dish.