Imagine a salad that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of India with just one bite! This Indian Tomato and Onion Salad is not just a side dish – it's a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and revolutionize your understanding of fresh, simple cuisine. In just 10 magical minutes, you'll create a refreshing masterpiece that's bursting with color, flavor, and authentic Indian zest. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to be your new go-to dish for instant flavor gratification!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Indian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 2 large tomatoes, 1 large onion, 1/2 cup cucumber, 1/4 cup cilantro, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Wash the tomatoes and cucumber thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Dice the tomatoes into small, even pieces. Aim for uniformity to ensure a consistent texture in the salad.
- Finely chop the onion. If you find raw onions too pungent, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes to mellow their flavor before chopping.
- Dice the cucumber into small cubes, similar in size to the tomatoes, to maintain a balanced texture in the salad.
- Chop the cilantro leaves finely. Make sure to use fresh cilantro for the best flavor.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped onion, diced cucumber, and chopped cilantro.
- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the mixture. This will add a refreshing tang and help to brighten the flavors.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount, and adjust according to your preference.
- Gently toss all the ingredients together using a spoon or spatula until everything is well combined and coated with lemon juice.
- Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This can be done at room temperature.
- Serve the Indian Tomato and Onion Salad in individual bowls or on a large platter. Enjoy it as a refreshing side dish or a light snack.
Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes and a crisp onion for the best flavor and texture. Fresh cilantro is key to achieving an authentic taste.
- Chopping Technique: Ensure uniform, small dice for all vegetables to create a balanced bite and professional presentation.
- Onion Hack: If you're sensitive to raw onion's strong flavor, soak chopped onions in cold water for 5 minutes before adding to the salad. This softens their bite without losing crunch.
- Acid Balance: The lemon juice is crucial – it adds brightness and helps mellow the onion's sharpness. Don't skip this ingredient!
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch, chill the salad for 15-20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Customization: Feel free to add a pinch of chaat masala or roasted cumin powder for an extra layer of traditional Indian flavor.
- Storage Tip: This salad is best enjoyed fresh. If you must store it, keep it refrigerated and consume within 4-6 hours for optimal taste and texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 35kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 1g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
