The vibrant colors of the Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa dance like a Moroccan belly dancer at a wedding, promising an explosion of flavors with every bite. Picture this: crunchy vegetables, a spicy kick from harissa, and the delightful crunch of toasted nuts – it’s the kind of dish that makes your taste buds do the tango. flavorful rice dish pairing.
Growing up, my Aunt Nina would whip up this salad for family gatherings. The aroma wafting through the house was irresistible, drawing everyone to the table like bees to honey. It’s perfect for summer barbecues or cozy gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be counting down the days until you can make it again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This salad is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with flavor and spice, it’s a unique twist on traditional salads.
- Its beautiful presentation will impress your guests and elevate any meal.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy as a side or main dish!
Ingredients for Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Mixed Greens: A combination of arugula and spinach adds freshness and vibrant color.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Use juicy cherry tomatoes for bursts of sweetness in each bite.
- Cucumber: Crisp cucumbers provide crunch; opt for firm ones for best texture.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced red onion adds zing and color; soak slices in water to mellow their sharpness.
- Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for both sweetness and a pop of color in the salad.
- Harissa Paste: The star ingredient! This North African chili paste delivers a spicy kick; adjust quantity based on your heat tolerance.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens flavors and balances the spice.
- Olive Oil: Quality extra virgin olive oil enhances richness; use it generously!
- Toasted Nuts (Almonds or Walnuts): Toasted nuts give an added crunch and nutty flavor; don’t skip this step!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables
Start by washing all your greens thoroughly. Pat them dry with paper towels or a salad spinner. Chop the cucumber into bite-sized pieces and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Step 2: Slice Your Onions
Take those red onions and slice them thinly. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak them in cold water for about ten minutes before adding them to your salad.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all your chopped vegetables: mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers. Give them a gentle toss to mix everything together nicely.
Step 4: Whip Up Your Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together two tablespoons of harissa paste with three tablespoons of olive oil and juice from one lemon. Adjust the harissa according to your spice preference; remember that less is more if you’re unsure!
Step 5: Dress Your Salad
Drizzle the dressing over your salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated. The colors should blend beautifully while odors start enticing your senses.
Step 6: Add Toasted Nuts
Finally, sprinkle toasted almonds or walnuts on top for that satisfying crunch! Serve immediately or let it sit for about ten minutes so flavors meld together beautifully.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional dressing if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every flavorful bite of this delightful Morrocan salad!
You Must Know
- This delightful salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa not only tantalizes your taste buds but is also a feast for the eyes.
- Packed with vibrant veggies and a spicy kick, it’s perfect for any occasion, from picnics to potlucks.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your vegetables: chop, slice, and dice like a culinary ninja. Next, whip up the dressing featuring harissa for that fiery touch. Toss everything together in a large bowl and let the flavors mingle while you sip on some mint tea.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out veggies or add proteins like chickpeas or grilled chicken. Experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or parsley to give your salad a personal twist. You can even try adding nuts for crunch or dried fruit for sweetness. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy it warm, simply reheat it gently on the stove, but be careful not to overcook those colorful veggies!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh vegetables for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Rinse canned chickpeas under cold water to reduce sodium content before adding them in.
- Allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes; this enhances the flavors beautifully.
Sometimes, I remember that one time I brought this salad to a family gathering. My cousin wouldn’t stop raving about it turns out harissa was his new obsession!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa?
To prepare Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa, gather fresh ingredients such as cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, red onions, and parsley. For the dressing, you will need olive oil, lemon juice, and harissa paste. The combination of these ingredients creates a vibrant salad that highlights the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Make sure to chop the vegetables finely for a better texture and taste. This salad is not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. For more inspiration, check out this Moroccan spiced salmon recipe recipe.
How can I customize my Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa?
You can easily customize your Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. Consider including chickpeas or grilled chicken for added protein. You can also experiment with different herbs like mint or cilantro to give it a unique twist. a deliciously cheesy side dish Adjust the amount of harissa to control the spice level according to your preference. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that suits your taste while still enjoying the essence of Moroccan flavors.
Is Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa is excellent for meal prep. The salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. To prevent sogginess, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This makes it an ideal option for lunchboxes or quick dinners during busy weeks. Enjoy this nutritious salad throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or freshness.
Can I make a vegan version of Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa?
Absolutely! Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa is naturally vegan-friendly since its main ingredients are vegetables and plant-based dressing. Use olive oil and lemon juice with harissa paste as your dressing to keep it simple and delicious. perfect side salad option You can enhance its nutritional value by adding seeds or nuts for crunch and extra nutrients. This vegan salad is perfect for anyone seeking a light yet satisfying meal option that showcases Moroccan culinary traditions.
Conclusion for Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa :
In summary, Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa offers a delightful blend of fresh vegetables and zesty flavors that embody Moroccan cuisine. Its versatility allows for customization based on personal preferences, making it suitable for various diets, including vegan options. Ideal for meal prep, this salad remains fresh and delicious even after a few days in the fridge. Enjoy preparing this vibrant dish that not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients!
Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Salade marocaine de « Nina » à l’harissa is a vibrant and refreshing Moroccan salad that combines crunchy mixed greens, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a spicy harissa dressing, topped with toasted nuts. This delightful dish is perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight meals, adding a burst of color and flavor to any table. Whether served as a side or main dish, it’s sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula and spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mixed colors)
- 2 tbsp harissa paste
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup toasted almonds or walnuts
Instructions
- Wash and dry the mixed greens thoroughly. Dice the cucumber and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Thinly slice the red onion; soak in water for 10 minutes if you prefer a milder flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and bell peppers. Toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together harissa paste, olive oil, and lemon juice. Adjust harissa to taste.
- Drizzle dressing over salad and toss until well-coated.
- Sprinkle toasted nuts on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Moroccan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Customize your salad by adding chickpeas or grilled chicken for more protein. For added freshness, incorporate herbs like cilantro or parsley. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; keep dressing separate until ready to serve.
