Smoked Meat and Bean Salad

This delightful smoked meat and bean salad is a versatile and wholesome dish, perfect for both casual lunches and elegant dinners. The tender smoked meat pairs beautifully with the savory marinated beans, offering a rich and hearty flavor in every bite. The addition of crunchy pickles and carrots adds delightful texture, while the creamy cheese brings an element of indulgence. A flavorful dressing of sour cream, tomato sauce, and garlic ties everything together with a savory touch. With its vibrant colors and numerous textures, this salad is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Quick to prepare, it makes for a practical, yet impressive meal solution. It's a dish that embodies comfort while maintaining a refined taste profile, sure to be a hit among family and friends. Plus, there are countless ways to modify it to suit different dietary needs or personal preferences. Finally, this salad holds its own in terms of nutritional benefits, offering a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

200g marinated beans
53g pickles
50g smoked meat
40g boiled carrots
20g cheese

Sauces & Spices

25g tomato sauce
25g sour cream
2g garlic

Preparation Time

Total Time: 25 minutes

Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by preparing your ingredients: finely chop the pickles, smoked meat, and boiled carrots into small, even pieces to ensure a uniform texture throughout the salad.
In a large bowl, add the chopped ingredients along with the marinated beans.
Grate the cheese and add to the mix, gently stirring to distribute it evenly.
Prepare the dressing by finely mincing the garlic, then mix it well with the sour cream and tomato sauce until smooth and creamy.
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the bowl, ensuring everything is lightly coated.
Gently fold the mixture together with a spatula or large spoon, being careful not to crush the softer ingredients such as the beans.
Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary; the pickles typically add enough salty flavor.
Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Transfer the salad to a serving dish when ready to serve.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness, if desired.
For added crunch, consider incorporating some toasted nuts such as walnuts or almonds before serving.
For a smokier flavor, lightly char the smoked meat on a grill before chopping.
Feel free to adjust ingredients, replacing smoked meat with roasted chicken for a lighter version.
Use low-fat cheese and sour cream for a healthier variant.
Enhance the dish with spices like paprika or dried oregano for aromatic notes.
Serve as a standalone dish or as part of a larger spread.
Pairs well with crisp white wine or a refreshing homemade lemonade.
Store leftovers in an airtight container; the salad keeps well for two days.
Reinvigorate leftovers by adding a dash of olive oil or lemon juice before serving again.
Enjoy as a filling lunch, perhaps paired with a piece of crusty bread.

Tips

Substitute canned beans with freshly cooked beans for superior texture.
Add finely diced red onions for an extra crunch and flavor boost.
Use smoked chicken instead of smoked meat for a lighter twist.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: Approx. 350 kcal
Protein: 20g
Fats: 15g
Carbs: 30g

Variations

Vegetarian: Omit smoked meat and use grilled mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Low-carb: Reduce or skip the beans and increase the amount of cheese and meat.
Gluten-free: The base recipe is gluten-free, but always check labels for sauces.

Serving Suggestions

Side dishes: Serve alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
Garnishes: Consider topping with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
Pairings: Complements well with a glass of chilled white wine or iced tea.

Best Places

The Salad Shop - Renowned for its artisanal salads in a cozy, urban setting.
Location: 123 Greenway Street, New York City, USA.
Green Bites Café - Offers vibrant, health-conscious dishes with an eco-friendly emphasis.
Location: 45 Orchard Rise, London, UK.
Salad & Grill House - Known for expertly grilled smoked meats and extensive salad variety.
Location: 789 Ocean Drive, Miami, USA.
Herb Garden Bistro - Combines locally sourced ingredients for seasonal daily specials.
Location: 192 Riverbank Road, Sydney, Australia.
Nourishment Bar - Vegan-friendly, specializing in plant-based innovative salads.
Location: 67 Market Square, Toronto, Canada.
The Crisp Corner - Offers fresh and flavorful salads with an artisanal touch.
Location: 34 Palm Avenue, Singapore City, Singapore.
Leafy Choice - A haven for salad lovers, with custom and creative options available.
Location: 56 Rue de Berry, Paris, France.
Healthy Fix Café - Casual spot focusing on wellness-inspired dishes.
Location: 89 Flora Hill, Cape Town, South Africa.
Simply Salads & More - Features an open kitchen where diners can build their own salads.
Location: 12 Bahnhof Strasse, Zurich, Switzerland.
Fresh Feast Land - Combines global flavors into locally-inspired dishes amidst a rustic charm.
Location: 100 Peachtree Lane, Atlanta, USA.