Beet and Pea Salad

This delightful beet and pea salad is both refreshing and nutritious, combining the earthy flavor of beets with the crispness of pickled cucumbers and the sweetness of green peas. With a creamy dressing made from sour cream and mayonnaise, it brings a rich texture while retaining a light feel. Perfect for picnics or as a side dish for a hearty meal, this salad can be easily customized with additional ingredients like garlic for a bit of zest. It's a simple recipe that requires minimal ingredients but offers maximum flavor. The preparation is straightforward, and with just a few steps, you will have a dish that's ready to impress. Ideal for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet, this salad can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it solo, this beet and pea salad is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the combination of colors and flavors that truly capture the essence of fresh produce. Bon appétit!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2-3 Steamed or boiled beets
• 1 cup Green peas
• 2 Pickled cucumbers

Dressing

• 2 parts Sour cream
• 1 part Mayonnaise

Spices

• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Beets: Begin by steaming or boiling 2-3 fresh beets until they are fork-tender. This should take about 20-30 minutes depending on the size of the beets.

2. Cool and Peel: Once cooked, allow the beets to cool. Peel off the skins using your hands or a vegetable peeler for cleaner preparation.

3. Dice the Beets: Cut the beets into small, bite-sized cubes. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even distribution in the salad.

4. Prepare the Cucumbers: Take two pickled cucumbers and dice them into small pieces similar in size to the beets. They add a crisp, tangy contrast to the earthiness of the beets.

5. Mix the Main Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed beets, diced cucumbers, and 1 cup of green peas.

6. Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix 2 parts sour cream with 1 part mayonnaise. This ratio ensures a creamy texture without overpowering the salad.

7. Optional Add-Ins: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, mince a small clove of garlic and add it to the dressing. It will provide a subtle kick.

8. Combine the Dressing: Pour the dressing into the bowl of beets, cucumbers, and peas. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well coated.

9. Seasoning: Add salt and pepper to taste. For a brighter flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon juice.

10. Chill: Once combined, place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

11. Final Stir: Before serving, give the salad one final stir to mix any ingredients that may have settled.

12. Plate and Serve: Once chilled, serve the salad in a decorative bowl to highlight its vibrant colors.

Tips:

• For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• To enhance the sweetness of the beets, add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing.
• Adjust the ratio of sour cream and mayonnaise based on personal preference for creaminess.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbs: 12g

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use a vegan mayonnaise and coconut cream instead of sour cream.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced apples or walnuts for a crunchier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh loaf of crusty bread for added substance.
• Garnish with fresh dill or parsley for an aromatic touch.

Best Places

1. Salad & Co - Offers a wide range of gourmet salads. Location: 123 Green St, New York, USA.
2. Veggie Delight - Known for fresh, organic ingredients. Location: 456 Plant Ave, Toronto, Canada.
3. The Green Bistro - Combines local produce with innovative recipes. Location: 789 Leafy Rd, London, UK.
4. Earth’s Bounty - Features globally inspired vegetarian dishes. Location: 321 Orchard Ln, Sydney, Australia.
5. Rooted - Focuses on root vegetables and creative salads. Location: 654 Soil Dr, Cape Town, South Africa.
6. Savory Greens - Offers a cozy setting with a fresh menu. Location: 987 Garden Pl, Dublin, Ireland.
7. Herbivore’s Kitchen - A vegan paradise with diverse options. Location: 246 Herb St, Berlin, Germany.
8. Nature’s Table - Simple yet elegant vegan offerings. Location: 135 Blossom Ave, Paris, France.
9. Pure Plates - Specializes in healthy and flavorful meals. Location: 369 Plate St, Rome, Italy.
10. Leaf & Fork - Casual eatery with a farm-to-table approach. Location: 753 Fork Rd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.