Green coriander salad - specific to Arab countries

Green coriander salad - An explosion of flavors from the heart of the East

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the fascinating world of Eastern flavors! Today we will indulge in a fresh, colorful, and flavorful salad that will bring a touch of exoticism to your table. The green coriander salad, also known as Salatit kuzbara khadra, is a simple yet characterful dish that combines fresh and healthy ingredients. This recipe is perfect for warm summer days or as a side dish for festive meals.

A bit of history: Salads have been prepared and enjoyed throughout history in various cultures, but the green coriander salad has a special story. The use of coriander, an aromatic plant with deep roots in culinary traditions, has been appreciated for its distinct flavor and health benefits. Now, let's get to work!

Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized, ripe, and juicy tomatoes
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons
- 2 green chili peppers, seeded
- ½ bunch of fresh green coriander
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the tomatoes: Start by cutting the tomatoes in half. Choose well-ripened tomatoes, as they will add a sweet and rich taste to your salad. In a non-stick pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the halved tomatoes cut side down and cover the pan with a lid. Let them cook on low heat for 10 minutes. This step will help soften the tomatoes and extract their natural juices.

2. Peeling the tomatoes: After cooking, remove the skins of the tomatoes using a fork or your hands (it will be very easy to do). Place the tomato pulp in a bowl and puree it with a blender or an immersion mixer. This puree will form the base of your salad.

3. Preparing the green coriander: Wash the green coriander well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Make sure to dry it thoroughly, as excess water can dilute the salad's flavor. Finely chop the coriander so that its aroma is released better.

4. The chili peppers: Take the two green chili peppers and seed them. Chop them finely, taking care to protect your hands (wear gloves if you prefer). They will add a spicy kick to your salad.

5. Combining the ingredients: In the bowl with the tomato puree, add the chopped coriander and chili peppers. Drizzle with the freshly squeezed lemon juice and mix well. Taste and add salt to your liking. It is important that the entire salad is well-seasoned to highlight the flavors.

6. Serving: You can serve the salad immediately, but if you have time, let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for the flavors to meld better. This salad pairs perfectly with grilled meat dishes or as a side for pastries and pita.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the ingredients: The tomatoes should be as ripe as possible, and the coriander should be fresh. You can also use dried coriander, but the flavor will not be as intense.
- Variations: You can add other ingredients such as chopped red onion, green olives, or even feta cheese for a more complex flavor. Experiment and discover the combinations you like best.
- Recommended drinks: A green coriander salad pairs wonderfully with a cold mint tea or a fresh fruit cocktail.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, while coriander contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory effects. Olive oil is known for its cardiovascular benefits, making this salad not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other herbs? Of course! Parsley or basil can be used instead of coriander, each bringing a distinct flavor.
- How can I store the salad? It is recommended to consume it fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to grab the ingredients and start your culinary adventure! The green coriander salad will surely become a favorite on your table, bringing a touch of freshness and unmistakable flavors. Enjoy your meal!