Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 fluted gourds, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced fluted gourds, red onion, cilantro, peanuts, and dried cranberries.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 150
- Total fat: 10g
- Total carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fluted gourds can be substituted with zucchini or yellow squash.
- Red onion can be substituted with shallots or green onions.
- Fresh cilantro can be substituted with parsley or basil.
- Roasted peanuts can be substituted with almonds or cashews.
- Dried cranberries can be substituted with raisins or chopped dates.
- Olive oil can be substituted with avocado oil or grapeseed oil.
- Apple cider vinegar can be substituted with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add sliced cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Top with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy addition.
- Add sliced grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to thinly slice the fluted gourds for a more uniform texture.
- Toast the peanuts in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- None
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra cilantro leaves or chopped peanuts.
Garnishes:
- Cilantro leaves
- Chopped peanuts
Pairings:
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Crusty bread
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Rice pilaf
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a drizzle of olive oil.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store leftover salad in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days.
Food History:
- Fluted gourds, also known as scalloped squash, are a type of summer squash that is native to North America.
Flavor Profiles:
- The salad has a fresh and bright flavor from the cilantro and apple cider vinegar, with a slight sweetness from the honey and dried cranberries.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or light lunch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Nigerian
Taste: Refreshing, Tangy, Citrusy, Herbal, Savory