Pierogi Niçoise Salad

Introduction

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a well-made salad, especially when it combines the hearty flavors of traditional dishes. The Pierogi Niçoise Salad is a delightful fusion that takes inspiration from the classic Niçoise salad and adds a unique twist with the inclusion of pierogies and kielbasa. I first tried this recipe during a family gathering, and it was an instant hit! The combination of flavors and textures—from the creamy dressing to the soft-boiled eggs and sautéed kielbasa—created a meal that was not only filling but also full of vibrant colors and tastes. Everyone at the table was raving about it, and it quickly became a staple in our household for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 fully cooked Kielbasa sausages
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6-8 Mrs. T’s Garlic and Parmesan Pierogies
• 1 cup Birds Eye Green Beans
• 2 cups spring mix lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup kalamata olives
• 2 soft-boiled eggs

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup Daisy Sour Cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, Dijon mustard, chopped tarragon, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. If the dressing is too thick, add a splash of water to achieve the desired consistency.
3. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Prepare the Sausages

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil.
2. Slice the Kielbasa sausages into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet.
3. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the sausages are lightly browned on each side.
4. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Cook the Pierogies

1. In the same skillet, add the frozen pierogies.
2. Cook according to package directions until they are golden brown and heated through, usually about 4-5 minutes.

Prepare the Eggs

1. Soft-boil the eggs by placing them in boiling water for 8-9 minutes.
2. Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice bath to cool quickly.
3. Peel the eggs and set aside.

Steam the Green Beans

1. Steam the green beans according to package instructions until they are tender, about 4-5 minutes.

Assemble the Salad

1. Start with a bed of spring mix lettuce on a large serving platter or individual bowls.
2. Arrange the cooked pierogies, sautéed sausages, steamed green beans, halved cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and halved soft-boiled eggs on top of the lettuce.

Dress and Serve

1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad.
2. Sprinkle additional fresh tarragon if desired.
3. Enjoy your flavorful and hearty Pierogi Niçoise Salad!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 150mg
• Sodium: 850mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 16g

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the salad on a large platter for family-style dining or in individual bowls.
• Drizzle with dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
• Garnish with extra tarragon for an added touch of flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing and cook the sausages and pierogies ahead of time to save on prep time.
2. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh tarragon if available for a more vibrant flavor.
3. Vegetarian Option: Substitute kielbasa with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
4. Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch and nutrition.
5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Goodness: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese into the salad for added richness.
• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or pine nuts for a crunchy texture.
• Fruit Addition: Toss in some sliced avocado or diced apples for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this salad with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing accompaniment.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Duration: Enjoy the salad within 2-3 days for the best flavor and freshness.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze the salad once assembled, as the textures will not hold up well.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen pierogies?
   Yes, frozen pierogies work perfectly! Just ensure to cook them according to package instructions.
2. What type of kielbasa should I use?
   You can use any fully cooked kielbasa or sausage of your choice, including turkey or chicken.
3. Can I prepare the salad in advance?
   Yes, you can prep the components a day ahead but assemble just before serving for freshness.
4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
   Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream in the dressing.
5. Is this salad gluten-free?
   Ensure that the pierogies and kielbasa are labeled gluten-free if needed.
6. How can I make this salad more filling?
   You can add quinoa or farro to the salad for additional protein and fiber.
7. What type of greens can I use?
   Besides spring mix, arugula or spinach would also work well.
8. Can I use different olives?
   Yes, you can substitute kalamata olives with green olives or your favorite variety.
9. How do I store the dressing?
   Store the dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
10. Can I add more protein?
    Absolutely! Grilled chicken or chickpeas would be great additions.

Conclusion

The Pierogi Niçoise Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the heartiness of pierogies and kielbasa with the freshness of a classic salad. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also impresses with its colorful presentation and delicious taste. Enjoy it as a complete meal or as a side dish, and watch as it becomes a favorite at your table just like it did at mine!

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