Chef Bihi Warm Lentil Salad with Herbs, Cotechino Modena IGP, and Quail Eggs
Indulge in a culinary delight that brings together the warmth of lentils, the richness of Cotechino Modena IGP, and the luxurious touch of quail eggs. This Italian celebration meal not only symbolizes abundance and prosperity for the New Year but also promises to delight your taste buds. Are you ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as meaningful as it is delicious?
Recipe Information
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups Belgian lentils
- 1 shallot
- 1 carrot
- 1 stalk of celery
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Sherry vinegar
- 6 tablespoons olive oil
- A mix of fresh herbs (e.g., dill, flat-leaf parsley, green onions, chives)
- 1 Cotechino Modena IGP
- 4 quail eggs
Instructions
- Dice the shallot and chop the carrot and celery into a small brunoise.
- Cook the lentils by measuring 1 part lentils to 3 parts water. Boil for 20 minutes without salt over high heat.
- Submerge the Cotechino Modena IGP in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, and simmer for 20 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, Sherry vinegar, and olive oil for the dressing.
- Chop the fresh herbs finely.
- Once cooked, sear the Cotechino in a skillet for 1 minute to achieve a nice shine.
- Slice the Cotechino into 0.5 cm thick rounds.
- Toss the warm lentils with the dressing, carrot, and celery.
- Soft-boil the quail eggs, peel them carefully.
- In a deep plate, arrange the lentils, place 3 slices of Cotechino on top, a small mix of herbs to form a nest, and finally, add the quail egg.
Notes
This dish is best served warm and can be prepared in advance. The flavors develop beautifully, making it perfect for gatherings.
Recipe Tips
Experiment with different fresh herbs to suit your taste. This dish pairs excellently with a crisp green salad.
Nutritional Information
Approximately 450 calories per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute with green or brown lentils, but cooking times may vary.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Leave out the Cotechino and replace it with roasted vegetables or smoked tofu for added flavor.
3. Can I prepare the dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the lentils and dressing a day ahead. Just combine everything before serving.
4. What can I serve with this salad?
This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a light main dish with a side of crusty bread.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
