Salad > Indian Salads

Indian-Style Lettuce and Cucumber Salad Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 head of lettuce, washed and chopped
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Special equipment needed:
- None

Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, chopped mint, chopped roasted peanuts, and raisins to the bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, salt, and black pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Serve immediately.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve at room temperature
Serving size:
- 4 servings

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Lettuce: Any leafy green such as spinach or arugula can be used instead.
- Cucumbers: Zucchini or bell peppers can be used instead.
- Red onion: White or yellow onion can be used instead.
- Roasted peanuts: Cashews or almonds can be used instead.
- Raisins: Dried cranberries or chopped dates can be used instead.
- Lemon juice: Lime juice can be used instead.
- Olive oil: Any neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil can be used instead.
- Ground cumin: Curry powder can be used instead.
- Ground coriander: Garam masala can be used instead.

Variations:
- Add diced tomatoes or sliced radishes for extra flavor and texture.
- Top with grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Use a different dressing such as a yogurt-based dressing for a creamier salad.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to wash and dry the lettuce and herbs thoroughly before using.
- Toast the peanuts in a dry skillet for extra flavor and crunch.
- Adjust the amount of spices and lemon juice to taste.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- None needed, serve cold.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates.
- Garnish with extra cilantro or mint leaves.

Garnishes:
- Extra chopped peanuts or raisins
- Fresh cilantro or mint leaves

Pairings:
- Serve with grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
- Pair with naan bread or rice for a more filling meal.

Suggested side dishes:
- Vegetable samosas or pakoras
- Lentil soup or dal
- Basmati rice

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the salad is too dry, add more dressing or a splash of water.
- If the salad is too salty, add more lemon juice or a pinch of sugar.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash all produce thoroughly before using.
- Store any leftover salad in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days.

Food history:
- Salads are not traditionally a part of Indian cuisine, but this recipe incorporates Indian flavors and ingredients into a refreshing and healthy salad.

Flavor profiles:
- This salad is a combination of fresh and crunchy vegetables, sweet raisins, and savory spices. The lemon juice and olive oil dressing adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or as a light lunch or dinner.

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Region: Indian

Taste: Crisp, Tangy, Refreshing, Spicy, Herby