Buffetsalaatti

Buffetsalaatti, or buffet salad, is a term used in Finnish cuisine to describe a large cold salad prepared for buffet-style meals. It is typically served on buffets at family gatherings, celebrations, cafeterias, and schools and is valued for its ability to feed many people with a single dish. The salad is usually built from chopped vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, peas, corn, and pickles, often with beets and hard-boiled eggs. It may also include proteins such as tuna, shrimp, chicken, or ham. Dressings are commonly mayonnaise-based, sometimes mixed with sour cream, yogurt, or a light vinaigrette, and the salad is seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes fresh herbs.

Preparation involves cooking or blanching the base ingredients, cooling them, and then chopping and mixing with the dressing. The mixture is chilled before serving to allow flavors to meld. Variations abound across regions and households, with some versions emphasizing a creamier texture, while others opt for a lighter or more tangy dressing. Seasonal ingredients may influence the mix, and some recipes incorporate fruit, pickled onions, or olives.

Storage and safety: buffetsalaatti should be kept refrigerated and consumed within a few days when stored cold. Mayonnaise-based versions require prompt refrigeration and should not be left at room temperature for extended periods.

See also: Potato salad; Nordic cuisine; Salad.