Salads
Salatu (Tomato, Onion and Cucumber Salad)
The Quirky Foodster Team

Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Method
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes, cucumber and onion in a serving bowl.
- Whisk together the vinegar, oil, salt and black pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the vegetables just before serving and toss gently.
Introduction: Salatu is the simple, fresh salad served alongside rich Gambian mains like Yassa and Domoda, offering a cool, sharp contrast to heavier stews.
Cultural Background: Salatu is the simple, fresh salad served alongside rich Gambian mains like Yassa and Domoda, offering a cool, sharp contrast to heavier stews. It reflects a common Senegambian table pattern of pairing stew with a light vinegar-dressed salad.
Tips: Slice the onion very thinly and rinse briefly in cold water to soften its sharpness. Dress the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.
Variations: Add thin slices of green bell pepper for extra crunch. A pinch of sugar balances the vinegar for those who prefer a milder dressing.
Storage: Best eaten fresh; if needed, store undressed vegetables separately in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Reheating: Not applicable; served cold.
Nutrition: Approx. 80 kcal, 1g protein, 6g fat, 6g carbohydrate per serving.
FAQs:
Q: What is Salatu usually served with?
A: It is a standard side to rich stews such as Yassa and Domoda, cutting through their richness.
Q: Can I prepare it in advance?
A: The vegetables can be sliced ahead, but the dressing should be added just before serving to prevent sogginess.

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