Israeli salad, oh how it dances on the palate with its crunch and zing! Imagine a garden party in your mouth, where cucumbers and tomatoes mingle like old friends, each bite a cool breeze on a summer’s day. I swear, this simple yet vibrant dish—though I might be exaggerating—feels like a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean, no passport required.
Steps
- Begin by slicing the Persian cucumbers in half lengthwise, then slice each half into four lengthwise strips, resulting in eight long pieces. Hold these strips together and cut them into small, even pieces.
- If you find the seeds in the cucumbers difficult to digest, you can remove them by slicing the cucumber lengthwise and scooping out the center.
- Place the diced cucumbers into a large mixing bowl and add the diced tomatoes, minced onion (if using), and minced fresh parsley.
- Drizzle the vegetables with extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice. Season the mixture with salt to taste.
- Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing and parsley.
- Enjoy the salad fresh at room temperature for the best flavor, or serve it chilled if you prefer a more refreshing option.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Persian cucumbers, diced
- 1 pound fresh ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
- 1/3 cup minced onion (optional)
- 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon)
Nutritional Values
Calories 560 | Calories from Fat 360 | Fat 40g | Sodium 48mg | Potassium 2032mg | Carbohydrates 40g | Fiber 8g | Sugar 16g | Protein 8g | Vitamin A 6800IU | Vitamin C 136mg | Calcium 168mg | Iron 4.8mg
FAQ
- What is Israeli Salad?
- Israeli salad is a simple and refreshing dish made primarily from chopped cucumbers and tomatoes, dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. It often includes other ingredients like onions and parsley and can be adapted with various regional or seasonal additions.
- What are the main health benefits of Israeli Salad?
- Israeli Salad offers numerous health benefits due to its fresh ingredients. Cucumbers are hydrating and a good source of fiber, tomatoes provide vitamins C and A along with lycopene, onions help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels, parsley is rich in vitamin K, and lemon juice offers vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Can I substitute ingredients in Israeli Salad?
- Yes, you can substitute ingredients in Israeli Salad. If Persian cucumbers are unavailable, English cucumbers are a good alternative, though regular cucumbers should be avoided due to their wax coating and potential bitterness.
- How should I serve Israeli Salad?
- Israeli Salad can be served fresh at room temperature or chilled for a more refreshing experience. It’s versatile and complements a variety of dishes, from grilled meats to breakfast omelets.
- Are there variations of Israeli Salad?
- Yes, there are many creative variations of Israeli Salad, such as adding pickles and mint, avocados, or trying a creamy or Mexican twist. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Tips
- Use Persian cucumbers for the best flavor and texture, but if unavailable, opt for English cucumbers instead. Avoid regular cucumbers, as they may be waxed and bitter.
- When dicing vegetables, aim for small and uniform pieces for a consistent texture. This can enhance the overall eating experience and presentation of the salad.
- Consider experimenting with seasonal or regional ingredients to add variety and depth to your Israeli salad. This approach can introduce new flavors and make the dish more exciting.
- If you prefer a milder taste, you can omit the onions or replace them with a milder alternative, such as green onions, to suit your taste preference.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Mixing Bowl
- Citrus Juicer
