Kiploku Grauzdiņu Salāti

This delightful salad combines the savory crunch of homemade garlic croutons with the freshness of red peppers and the rich taste of hard-boiled eggs. It's a dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully with the addition of sweet corn and creamy cheese. The dill adds a hint of herbal freshness, while the mayonnaise and sour cream dressing offers a tangy, smooth finish. Perfect for a quick meal or as a side dish, these flavorful and easy-to-make salad layers create a delicious and satisfying experience. Add simplicity and richness to your table, as each ingredient plays its role in enhancing the others. A fridge staple that's also wonderful for picnics and gatherings. Enjoy with friends, celebrate with family, or savor it on your own; this salad is both versatile and deeply satisfying. It's a beloved blend that's been cherished by many for its straightforward approach and deeply comforting flavor profile.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

300 g garlic croutons
2 red bell peppers
5 hard-boiled eggs
300 g canned corn
200 g grated cheese
Dill for garnish

Spices and Sauces:

Mayonnaise and sour cream (3 tbsp mayonnaise and 2 tbsp sour cream)
Salt and pepper

Preparation Time

Total preparation time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Croutons: Slice a bread of your choice into cubes, toss them in a pan with some oil, and add grated garlic. Toast until they are golden brown and set aside to cool.
Dice the Peppers: Cut the red bell peppers into small cubes. This adds a sweet crunch to the salad.
Prepare the Dressing: In a bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of sour cream. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and a clove of minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor.
Layer the Salad: In your chosen serving dish, start with a layer of garlic croutons.
Add Dressing: Spread a thin layer of the dressing over the croutons to help them soak up the savory goodness.
Continue Layering: Add the diced red peppers as the next layer, their sweetness balancing the garlicky croutons.
Add the Eggs: Grate or finely chop the hard-boiled eggs over the peppers, adding some rich texture.
More Dressing: Add another layer of the mayonnaise-sour cream dressing over the eggs.
Add Corn: Drain the canned corn and layer it evenly over the eggs. The corn brings a slight sweetness to contrast the other ingredients.
Sprinkle Dill: Chop fresh dill and sprinkle generously over the corn, enhancing the salad's freshness.
Final Dressing Layer: Spread the remaining dressing over the dill for a creamy finish.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle grated cheese over the top, allowing it to form a rich, savory top layer.
Chill: Place the salad in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together.
Wait: It can sit for a minimum of 30 minutes. The longer it sits, the more the flavors develop.
Serving Suggestions: Before serving, give the salad a gentle toss to mix all layers, or leave it layered for presentation.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust with a little more salt or pepper if needed.
Garnish: Add a few sprigs of fresh dill on top for decoration.
Enjoy: Serve chilled and enjoy the complementary textures and flavors.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Versatility: Pair with grilled meats or enjoy as a light main course.

Tips

For added protein, consider adding shredded chicken or chopped bacon.
Use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute for sour cream.
Try experimenting with different cheeses for varied flavors.
Always use fresh dill to get the best aromatic contribution.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
Protein: 12 g
Fats: 24 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or chickpeas for added texture and protein.
Spicy Twist: Add a bit of chopped jalapeño for heat.
Deluxe Salad: Add avocado slices for extra creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a roasted meat dish for a full meal.
Serve alongside a light soup for a more balanced meal.
Top with fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.

Best Places

Art Café - A charming spot with a variety of modern takes on classic dishes. Location: 34 Orchard St, London, UK.
Bistro Verde - Known for fresh, flavorful salads and a cozy atmosphere. Location: 12 Greenway Ln, Melbourne, Australia.
La Petite Maison - Offers an exquisite fusion of French and Mediterranean cuisine. Location: 54 Rue de Paris, Nice, France.
The Garden Room - Elegant dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Location: 81 Spring Garden St, New York, USA.
Café de Flora - A cultural hub renowned for its classic menu and ambiance. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
Salad Society - Innovatively combines fresh ingredients for unique flavors. Location: 21 Wall St, Toronto, Canada.
Sunlit Corner - Renowned for its fresh salads and vibrant environment. Location: 15 Central Ave, Wellington, New Zealand.
Vegan Paradise - Offers a completely plant-based menu with unique twists. Location: 9 Green St, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Café Mosaic - Cozy café with a colorful and creative menu suitable for all tastes. Location: 66 Riverwalk Dr, Berlin, Germany.
Gourmet Greens - A go-to spot for health-conscious food lovers. Location: 44 Stonegate Rd, Dublin, Ireland.