Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
Spanish Serrano Ham Bone in from Spain 14-17 lb with Ham Stand & Knife (NO Nitrates or Nitrites) - Jamon Serrano - Jamón Serrano Español - Spanish Ham - Cured Ham - Serrano Ham from Spain
$199.00
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HORMEL Canned Ham, Smoked, 5 Ounce (Pack of 12)
$28.95
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Hillshire Farm Ultra Thin Sliced Deli Lunch Meat, Honey Ham, 16 oz
$6.27
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Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the smoked meat or ham and fresh cucumbers into thin strips. This will ensure that each bite of the salad is packed with flavor.
Next, take the boiled eggs and grate them using a fine grater. Do the same with the hard cheese. Finally, chop the fresh parsley finely. This will add a lovely freshness to your salad.
Step 2
Now it's time to assemble your cocktail salad. You can layer the ingredients in serving glasses or on a large plate, depending on your preference.
Start with a layer of smoked meat or ham at the bottom, followed by a layer of cucumbers. Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on top of each layer to bind the ingredients together. I find it useful to create a zigzag pattern with the mayonnaise for an even distribution.
Continue adding layers of boiled eggs, cheese, and parsley in the same order, making sure to coat each layer with mayonnaise except for the final layer.
Step 3
Once you have assembled all the layers, leave the last layer without any mayonnaise. This will create a beautiful presentation.
Now, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve your cocktail salad chilled and enjoy this festive treat!
Servings
When it comes to serving your Cocktail Salad, don’t just think about what looks good, think about how to make it special! 🍽️ Lay the salad out in beautiful clear cups, allowing every layer to shine for a vibrant look. Consider pairing it with some crispy breadsticks or fresh baguette slices on the side for added texture. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor! 🌿
For a truly festive vibe, adorn the table with seasonal decorations. Think twinkling lights, cozy table runners, and perhaps some candles for a touch of warmth. Making your salad a centerpiece will not only catch the eye, but it will also whet everyone’s appetite!
Whether it's New Year's Eve or a birthday bash, this salad will cater to all festive occasions. Don't forget to share those wonderful flavor combinations with your friends as they enjoy a bite of your culinary creation! 🎉
Equipment
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients easily. Make sure it's spacious enough to accommodate all your salad components without making a mess!
YIHONG 7 Piece Mixing Bowls with Lids for Kitchen, Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls Set Ideal for Baking, Prepping, Cooking and Serving Food, Nesting Metal Mixing Bowls for Space Saving Storage
$27.99
$35.99
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best seller
Pyrex Glass, 3-Piece, 3 PC Mixing Bowl Set
$17.53
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REGILLER Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls (Set of 5), Non Slip Colorful Silicone Bottom Nesting Storage Bowls, Polished Mirror Finish For Healthy Meal Mixing and Prepping 1.5-2 - 2.5-3.5 - 7QT (Colorful)
$26.99
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A good quality grater will make shredding cheese and eggs a breeze. Opt for one with multiple grating options for versatility.
Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy to Clean Grater for Fruit, Vegetables, Nuts
$28.97
$39.99
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KitchenAid Gourmet 4-Sided Stainless Steel Box Grater for Fine, Medium and Coarse Grate, and Slicing, Detachable 3 Cup Storage Container and Measurment Markings, Dishwasher Safe, 10 inches tall, Black
$18.99
$24.99
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Sharp knives and a sturdy cutting board are vital for slicing ingredients like cucumbers and meats. Ensure your knife is sharp for clean cuts.
SMIRLY Wooden Cutting Boards For Kitchen - Bamboo Cutting Board Set with Holder, Wood Cutting Board Set, Cutting Board Wood, Wooden Chopping Board, Wooden Cutting Board Set
$45.99
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Smart Cutting Board and Knife Set - Self Cleaning Cutting Board Set with 4 Color Coded Cutting Boards, 4 Stainless Steel Knives - Drying Holder Organizer for Kitchen
$139.99
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Select beautiful serving ware to enhance your presentation. Clear cups work great for individual servings, while a large platter is perfect for sharing.
DOWAN Ramekins 4 oz Oven Safe for Creme Brulee Souffle, Porcelain Custard Cups Ramiken for Baking, Classic Style Ramekins Bowls, Set of 6, White
$12.82
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LE TAUCI Ramekins 4 OZ Oven Safe, Creme Brulee Ramekins, Pudding Custard Cups Souffle Ramiken, Dipping Sauce Dishes, Ceramic Ramekin Bowls Set of 6, White ClimatePartner certified
$14.99
$17.99
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LE TAUCI Sauce Cups 2 OZ, Small Dipping Bowls, Mini Ceramic Ramekins Souffle Dishes, Sauce Dip Bowls for Charcuterie Boards, Microwave & Oven Safe, Set of 6, White ClimatePartner certified
$11.99
$13.99
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Variations
Looking to modify this recipe? Here are some fabulous gluten-free and vegan variations! 🌟
For a **Gluten-Free Cocktail Salad**, simply ensure that all deli meats and mayonnaise are certified gluten-free. You can replace mayonnaise with a tangy yogurt or an avocado dip to keep it fresh and light! 🥑
Want to make it **Vegan**? Substitute the ham with a combination of grilled tofu or chickpeas for protein, and use a plant-based mayonnaise. You can also add some roasted vegetables for an earthy flavor. This will give your salad a hearty twist while keeping all the flavors in harmony! 🌈
Faq
- What if I don't have all the ingredients?
No worries! You can always substitute ingredients based on your pantry items. Try adding different veggies like bell peppers or swapping the meats for beans or chickpeas!
- Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the individual components a day before and then assemble them when you're ready to serve, keeping it fresh and delicious!
- How can I make the salad more flavorful?
Consider marinating the cucumbers in vinegar and a bit of sugar for an added tangy flavor! You can also spice up the mayonnaise with herbs and spices.
- Is it okay to add nuts or seeds to this salad?
Absolutely! Adding sunflower seeds or chopped nuts can introduce a nice crunch and elevate your salad to the next level!
- How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
Make sure to add the dressing just before serving. You can keep the ingredients separate until you're ready to enjoy your meal!
- What’s the best way to store leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. However, it’s best to consume them within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
