Sałatka Bankietowa Recipe

Sałatka Bankietowa, or “Banquet Salad,” is a classic Polish dish known for its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, this salad combines fresh vegetables, savory meats, and creamy dressings to create a dish that is as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to prepare this timeless favorite.

Ingredients
Vegetables:

2 medium potatoes, boiled and diced
2 medium carrots, boiled and diced
1 cup of green peas (cooked or canned)
4 pickled cucumbers, finely diced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
Protein:

200g cooked chicken breast, diced (optional)
4 boiled eggs, chopped
Dressing:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp sour cream
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:

Fresh parsley or dill, finely chopped
Directions
Prepare the Ingredients:
Boil the potatoes, carrots, and eggs. Allow them to cool before dicing. Drain the peas if using canned, and dice the cucumbers and onion.

Combine:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, carrots, chicken (if using), eggs, cucumbers, onions, and green peas.

Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Mix Together:
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve Sałatka Bankietowa as a side dish with meats, bread, or as part of a larger buffet spread.

Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again, as the dressing may settle.

Variations
Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and eggs and add diced bell peppers or corn for extra crunch and color.
Spicy Twist: Add a dash of paprika or chopped jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Seafood Option: Replace chicken with cooked shrimp or smoked salmon for a luxurious touch.