Salads
Salade de Concombre et Coco
Ingredients
- - cucumber, thinly sliced: 2 medium (2 medium)
- - fresh coconut, grated (or unsweetened desiccated, soaked): 80 g (1 cup)
- - red onion, thinly sliced: 1/2 small (1/2 small)
- - lime, juiced: 1 (1)
- - fresh coriander, chopped: 2 tbsp (2 tbsp)
- - chilli, finely chopped: 1/2 small (1/2 small)
- - salt: 1/2 tsp (1/2 tsp)
Method
- Place the sliced cucumber in a colander, sprinkle with a little salt, and leave to drain for 10 minutes.
- Pat the cucumber dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cucumber, grated coconut, red onion and chilli.
- Add the lime juice and remaining salt, and toss gently to combine.
- Scatter with fresh coriander just before serving.
Introduction: A cool, refreshing salad combining crisp cucumber with fresh grated coconut, brightened with lime, this dish offers a light counterpoint to Comoros' richer coconut-milk stews and spiced rice dishes.
Cultural Background: A cool, refreshing salad combining crisp cucumber with fresh grated coconut, brightened with lime, this dish offers a light counterpoint to Comoros' richer coconut-milk stews and spiced rice dishes.
Tips: Draining the cucumber first keeps the salad from becoming watery. Toss just before serving so the coconut stays fresh and doesn't soften too much.
Variations: Add diced mango for a touch of sweetness. A spoonful of roasted peanuts adds welcome crunch. This recipe does not have a distinct vegetarian/vegan conversion beyond the dietary tags listed above; no authentic substitution was forced.
Storage: Best eaten fresh; if needed, refrigerate for up to a few hours in an airtight container.
Reheating: This is a cold, no-cook salad and is not intended to be reheated. Nutrition (per serving, approximate) Calories: 90 kcal | Protein: 1 g | Carbohydrates: 7 g | Fat: 7 g
FAQs
Q: Can I use desiccated coconut instead of fresh?
A: Yes, soak unsweetened desiccated coconut in a little warm water for 10 minutes first, then drain well.
Q: How spicy is this salad?
A: It's mild by default; adjust the chilli up or down easily to taste.