Smoked Cheese Salad with Avocado and Egg

This delightful smoked cheese salad is a fusion of rich flavors and textures, perfect for a light lunch or a side dish. The unique combination of smoked cheese, creamy avocado, and hard-boiled egg brings a satisfying contrast of tastes and nutrients. This dish pairs beautifully with crunchy red bell pepper, adding a burst of color and a subtle sweetness. The dressing, a mix of sour cream and mayonnaise, binds the ingredients together with a tangy and rich finish. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of sugar, the salad achieves a well-rounded and balanced flavor profile. Ideal for quick preparation, this salad can be made in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy days. With simple yet sophisticated ingredients, the salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. It can also be easily modified to suit different dietary preferences or to incorporate seasonal ingredients. Enjoy this versatile dish as a standalone meal or as a complementary side with your favorite entree.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 50 g smoked cheese (e.g., Beverīna)
• 1 hard-boiled egg
• 1/2 avocado
• 1 piece of red bell pepper

Sauces and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon sour cream
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Sugar, to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring the cheese, egg, and avocado are ready to be chopped.
2. Slice the smoked cheese into small cubes, which will add a smoky depth to the salad.
3. Cut the hard-boiled egg into thin slices; this gives the salad a lovely texture and flavor.
4. Carefully chop the avocado into small cubes, making sure to maintain the creamy consistency.
5. Dice the red bell pepper into small pieces to add a crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and mayonnaise. This will form the creamy base of your dressing.
7. Season the dressing with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a touch of sugar for balanced flavors.
8. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning as needed; it should be savory and a little sweet.
9. Place all the chopped ingredients in a large mixing bowl to allow for easy mixing.
10. Pour the prepared creamy dressing over the chopped ingredients, making sure each piece is coated.
11. Gently toss the salad, taking care not to mash the avocado, so it retains its shape.
12. Taste the salad again, adjusting any seasonings as desired to suit your palate.
13. Transfer the tossed salad to a serving dish, making sure it's neatly arranged for a beautiful presentation.
14. For added texture, consider sprinkling some toasted seeds or nuts on top.
15. If desired, refrigerate the salad for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
16. Before serving, garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives for an aromatic touch.
17. Serve immediately as a refreshing starter or as a side to a main dish.
18. Enjoy your homemade creation, and try experimenting with different herbs or spices next time.
19. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day.
20. Remember, the freshness of each ingredient enhances the overall taste of the dish!

Tips

• For a lighter dressing, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Use freshly ground pepper for a more robust flavor.
• Add crumbled bacon for a smoky boost and extra crunch.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 220 kcal per serving
• Protein: 8 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g

Variations

• Substitute the smoked cheese with a softer cheese like mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Add chopped cucumbers or tomatoes for a more refreshing salad.
• For a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and a vegan mayonnaise alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm, crusty baguette for a well-rounded meal.
• Complement with a glass of chilled white wine for a sophisticated touch.
• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Best Places

• Cheese Lovers Cafe - Renowned for its artisan cheese dishes, perfect for cheese enthusiasts.
  Location: 45 Cheese Lane, New York, USA.
• Avocado Delight Bistro - Offers a wide array of avocado-inspired dishes with a gourmet touch.
  Location: 12 Avocado St, Los Angeles, USA.
• Eggsplore - Famous for its creative egg-based meals in a charming setting.
  Location: 30 Egg St, London, UK.
• Bell Pepper Palace - Known for vibrant dishes that celebrate bell peppers, a must-visit for culinary adventurers.
  Location: 85 Spice Road, Mumbai, India.
• Creamy Creations - Specializes in rich and creamy culinary delights for a decadent experience.
  Location: 50 Dessert Ave, Paris, France.
• Salad Symphony - Offers a harmonious balance of salad flavors, a haven for salad lovers.
  Location: 100 Green Haven, Sydney, Australia.
• Savor and Spice - Experience a variety of global flavors with a focus on spices.
  Location: 22 Global Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Herb Harmony - Combines fresh herbs with innovative dishes, right for nature-inspired food enthusiasts.
  Location: 10 Nature Park, Toronto, Canada.
• Texture Trends - Explore dishes focusing on contrasting textures for a unique dining experience.
  Location: 77 Texture Rd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Fresh Fusion - Celebrates fresh ingredients with creative twists for foodies.
  Location: 88 Fresh Space, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.