Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large ensete (Ethiopian banana)
- 4 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Salad tongs
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Peel and slice the ensete into thin rounds.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ensete rounds, baby spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
5. Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and chopped walnuts.
6. Serve immediately.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- Serves 4
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 220
- Total fat: 16g
- Saturated fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Substitute baby spinach with arugula or mixed greens
- Substitute cherry tomatoes with sliced cucumber or bell pepper
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or blue cheese
- Substitute walnuts with almonds or pecans
Variations:
- Add grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein
- Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess
- Add dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness
Tips and tricks:
- To prevent the ensete from turning brown, toss it with a little lemon juice before adding it to the salad
- Toast the walnuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use
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 additional feta cheese and walnuts
Garnishes:
- Additional feta cheese
- Chopped walnuts
Pairings:
- This salad pairs well with grilled meats or fish
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the ensete is too tough to slice, try steaming it for a few minutes to soften it up
Food safety advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 2 days
Food history:
- Ensete is a staple food in Ethiopia and is often used to make a porridge-like dish called "kocho"
Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a combination of sweet and savory flavors with a slight crunch from the walnuts
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch or as a side dish with dinner
Related Categories
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Region: Ethiopian