Tomato and Onion Coconut Salad
The Quirky Foodster Team

Ingredients
- Tomatoes, diced — 4
- Small onion, thinly sliced — 1
- Coconut milk — 100 ml (1/3 cup plus 1 tbsp)
- Lime juice — 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper, — to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped, to garnish
Method
- Combine the diced tomatoes and thinly sliced onion in a mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and lime juice.
- Pour the coconut dressing over the tomato and onion, and toss gently to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh coriander, and serve immediately or lightly chilled.
Introduction: This bright, simple salad combines fresh tomato and onion with a light coconut milk dressing, offering a cool, refreshing side to balance richer coconut-based mains commonly found across Vanuatu.
Cultural Background: This bright, simple salad combines fresh tomato and onion with a light coconut milk dressing, offering a cool, refreshing side to balance richer coconut-based mains commonly found across Vanuatu.
Tips: Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavour. Soak the sliced onion briefly in cold water first to mellow its sharpness, if preferred. Serve fresh — this salad is best made shortly before eating.
Variations: Add diced cucumber for extra freshness and crunch. Add a pinch of chilli flakes for gentle heat. Add crumbled hard-boiled egg for extra protein. Naturally vegan as written; no conversion needed.
Storage: Best eaten the day it's made; can be refrigerated for a few hours but vegetables release liquid over time.
Reheating: Not applicable — this is a cold salad and is not reheated.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: It's best made shortly before serving, as the vegetables release liquid over time and the coconut dressing can separate.
Q: Is this salad spicy?
A: No, it's mild and refreshing by default, with chilli as an optional addition.
Q: What does this salad traditionally accompany?
A: It pairs well with richer coconut-based curries and main dishes, offering a cooling contrast.
- Tomatoes, diced — 4
- Small onion, thinly sliced — 1
- Coconut milk — 100 ml (1/3 cup plus 1 tbsp)
- Lime juice — 1 tbsp
- Salt and pepper, — to taste
- Fresh coriander, chopped, to garnish

Please log in to leave a comment.