White salad

Bulgarian White Salad Recipe with Cottage Cheese and Walnuts

Region / culture: Bulgaria | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

White salad is a refreshing and creamy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. This salad is made with cucumbers, cottage cheese, cream, walnuts, garlic, dill, and hard-boiled eggs, creating a delicious and satisfying combination of flavors and textures.

History

White salad has its origins in Eastern European cuisine, where dairy products like cottage cheese and cream are commonly used in dishes. This salad is a popular choice for summer gatherings and celebrations, as it is easy to prepare and can be made in advance.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Peel and dice the cucumbers. Add the cottage cheese, cream, crushed walnuts, garlic, oil, finely chopped dill, and salt.
Beat the mixture and pour it into a plate. Garnish with hard-boiled eggs cut in half.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for the cream for a lighter version of the salad.
Add diced red bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to peel and dice the cucumbers before adding them to the salad to ensure a uniform texture.

- Use fresh dill for the best flavor, and adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.

- Garnish the salad with hard-boiled eggs for a decorative touch and added protein.

Serving Suggestions

White salad can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to beat the mixture well to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the amount of salt and dill to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a tangier flavor.

- Substitute almonds or pecans for the walnuts for a different nutty flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

White salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to garnish with the hard-boiled eggs right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve white salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh dill and hard-boiled eggs for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

White salad pairs well with grilled chicken, salmon, or shrimp, as well as a crisp white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of white salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of white salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of white salad contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of white salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of white salad contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

White salad is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

White salad contains dairy (cottage cheese and cream), nuts (walnuts), and eggs.

Summary

White salad is a nutritious and satisfying dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

White salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for summer gatherings or as a light lunch. With its creamy texture and refreshing flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for white salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Martha was known for her delicious and unique dishes, and I always looked forward to trying out her latest creations.

On this particular day, Martha had prepared a beautiful white salad that caught my eye immediately. The salad was a delightful mix of fresh vegetables, creamy cheese, and a tangy dressing that tied everything together perfectly. I had never tasted anything quite like it before, and I was determined to learn how to make it myself.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, I couldn't help but ask Martha about the recipe for the white salad. She chuckled and told me that it was a family recipe passed down through generations. She explained that the secret to the salad's delicious flavor was in the dressing, a simple yet flavorful combination of mayonnaise, vinegar, and a touch of sugar.

I was determined to learn how to make this delicious salad, so Martha graciously invited me into her kitchen to show me the ropes. As we worked together to prepare the salad, Martha shared stories of her childhood and the many memories she had of making this dish with her own grandmother.

I watched closely as Martha expertly chopped the fresh vegetables and arranged them in a beautiful display on a large platter. She then mixed together the creamy mayonnaise dressing, adding just the right amount of vinegar and sugar to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

As we sat down to enjoy our finished creation, I couldn't help but marvel at how such simple ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. The crisp vegetables, creamy cheese, and tangy dressing all worked together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both satisfying and refreshing.

I thanked Martha profusely for teaching me her family recipe for white salad, and I knew that it would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come. I made sure to write down the recipe in my trusty recipe book, adding a few notes of my own to make it my own.

Over the years, I have made Martha's white salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a handful of fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor, or I swap out the mayonnaise for a tangy Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

No matter how I choose to make it, Martha's white salad always brings a smile to my face and a feeling of warmth in my heart. It reminds me of lazy summer days spent in good company, enjoying delicious food and even better company.

As I pass on Martha's recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will feel the same joy and satisfaction that I felt when I first learned to make this delicious white salad. It is a dish that brings people together, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am eternally grateful to my dear friend Martha and her wonderful recipe.