Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups elephant bush leaves, washed and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the elephant bush leaves, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, parsley, and mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the feta cheese and walnuts over the top of the salad.
5. Serve chilled.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- Makes 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Protein: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If elephant bush leaves are not available, you can use baby spinach or arugula instead.
- You can substitute goat cheese for the feta cheese.
- Almonds or pecans can be used instead of walnuts.
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different flavor.
- Add sliced avocado for a creamy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- If the salad seems dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor.
Storage Instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs
- Paprika
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the salad seems too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- If the salad seems too salty, add more vegetables to dilute the saltiness.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days.
Food History:
- Elephant bush, also known as Portulacaria afra, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is commonly used in traditional medicine and is also a popular ingredient in salads.
Flavor Profiles:
- This salad is fresh and herbaceous with a tangy dressing and salty feta cheese.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this salad as a light lunch or as a side dish at a summer barbecue.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A