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Salata-e-Afghani (Tomato, Cucumber and Onion Salad) (یناغفا هتلاس)

The Quirky Foodster Team

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10 minutes
Prep
0 minutes
Cook
4
Servings

Ingredients

  • Tomatoes, diced — 300 g (2 cups)
  • Cucumber, diced — 250 g (1 1/2 cups)
  • Red onion, thinly sliced — 80 g (1/2 medium)
  • Fresh coriander, chopped — 15 g (1/4 cup)
  • Lemon juice — 30 ml (2 tbsp)
  • Salt — 3 g (1/2 tsp)
  • Black pepper — 1 g (1/4 tsp)

Method

  1. Combine tomato, cucumber and red onion in a mixing bowl.
  2. Add the chopped coriander.
  3. Dress with lemon juice, salt and black pepper.
  4. Toss gently and serve immediately.

Introduction: A refreshing chopped salad of tomato, cucumber and onion, dressed simply with lemon and fresh coriander.

Cultural Background: This simple salad accompanies nearly every Afghan meal, offering a cooling, acidic contrast to richer stews and kababs.

Tips: Salt the salad just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp. Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture.

Variations: Add diced green chilli for heat. Include a splash of olive oil for a richer dressing.

Vegetarian/Vegan: Naturally vegetarian and vegan as written.

Serving Suggestions: Serve alongside kababs, qorma or pulao as a refreshing side.

Storage: Best eaten fresh; can be refrigerated for up to 1 day, though vegetables will soften.

Reheating: Not applicable — served cold.

Nutrition: 45 kcal | Protein 1g | Carbs 9g | Fat 1g

FAQs:

Q: Can this be made ahead?

A: The vegetables can be chopped ahead, but dress just before serving to keep it fresh.

Q: What’s a good substitute for coriander if I dislike it?

A: Fresh parsley or mint work well as an alternative.