A traditional Guatemalan dish — Fiambre is the spectacular cold salad that appears on Guatemalan tables every November 1st for Día de los Muertos. Every family’s fiambre is different, but at its heart is a mountain of pickled and boiled vegetables, cured meats, cheeses, eggs, and olives tossed in a sharp vinaigrette. It is made a day ahead, chilled, and served cold, a colorful centerpiece that honors the departed with the flavors they loved.
Fiambre
A traditional Guatemalan dish — Fiambre is the spectacular cold salad that appears on Guatemalan tables every November 1st for Día de los Muertos.

Step by stepInstructions
- Boil each vegetable separately in salted water until crisp-tender, draining each one so the colors stay bright.
- Poach the chicken, shred it, and cook the chorizo, then slice all the meats and cheeses into bite-size pieces.
- Whisk the vinegar, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper into a sharp dressing.
- Layer the vegetables, meats, eggs, cheese, olives, and capers in a large serving dish, pouring the dressing over each layer.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight so the flavors meld; taste and adjust the dressing before serving.
- Garnish with fresh mint and serve very cold, with crusty bread or tortillas.
💡 Chef tips & storage
Fiambre is endlessly customizable — add whatever your family loves, from baby corn to radishes to extra sausages. Dress the salad generously, as the vegetables absorb the vinaigrette overnight.

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