Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad

Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad Recipe from Kuwait

Region / culture: Kuwait | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad is a refreshing and healthy dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy yogurt, and zesty lemon juice creates a flavorful and satisfying salad that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

This recipe has its origins in Persian cuisine, where yogurt is a staple ingredient in many dishes. The combination of yogurt and spinach is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries in the Middle East.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) fresh spinach
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp finely grated onion
0.5 tsp salt
freshly ground black pepper
1 cup unflavored yoghurt
1 tbsp fresh mint, finely cut or 1 tsp dried mint

How to prepare

Wash the spinach under cold running water. Drain, then remove the stems and any tough or discolored leaves.
In a heavy 2 to 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil over high heat. Add the spinach, reduce the heat to low and simmer tightly covered for about 10 minutes. Drain the spinach in a sieve, cool to room temperature and squeeze it completely dry. Chop it as finely as possible.
In a deep bowl, combine the spinach, lemon juice, onion, salt, and a few grindings of pepper. Toss the mixture with a spoon, then stir in the yogurt and mix thoroughly together.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled. Transfer the borani to a chilled serving bowl and sprinkle the top with mint.

Variations

Add diced cucumbers or tomatoes for extra crunch and flavor.
Sprinkle toasted nuts or seeds on top for added texture.
Mix in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to squeeze the spinach completely dry after cooking to prevent the salad from becoming watery.

- For a creamier texture, you can blend the yogurt with the spinach mixture using a food processor or blender.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and salt to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to chop the spinach finely for a more uniform texture.

- Refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use Greek yogurt or strained yogurt in place of unflavored yogurt.

- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just add the yogurt and mint right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or flatbreads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad contains approximately 100 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad contains approximately 7 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (yogurt) and is not suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to add more greens to their diet.

Summary

Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its fresh ingredients and creamy yogurt dressing, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. I had always enjoyed cooking, and I loved experimenting with new ingredients and flavors. One day, a neighbor of mine invited me over for lunch and served me this delicious salad.

I was immediately intrigued by the combination of fresh spinach, creamy yogurt, and tangy dressing. I asked her for the recipe, and she was kind enough to share it with me. As soon as I got home, I rushed to my kitchen to recreate the dish. It turned out just as delicious as I remembered, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I have made this Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad countless times. I have shared it with friends and family, and it has always been a hit. The recipe has become a staple in my cooking repertoire, and I have come to cherish the memories associated with it.

I have always been a firm believer in the idea that food brings people together. Cooking for others is a way to show love and care, and sharing a meal is a wonderful way to connect with others. This salad, in particular, holds a special place in my heart because of the memories it carries.

One of my fondest memories of making this salad was when my grandchildren came to visit me. They were young at the time, full of energy and curiosity. I decided to teach them how to make the salad, and they were eager to help. We spent a sunny afternoon in the kitchen, washing the spinach, mixing the dressing, and tossing everything together. The children were so proud of their creation, and we all sat down to enjoy the salad together. It was a simple moment, but it was filled with love and joy.

As I grew older, I continued to make this salad for family gatherings and special occasions. It became a tradition in our household, and everyone always looked forward to it. The recipe itself is quite simple, but the flavors are so vibrant and refreshing. The combination of the crisp spinach, creamy yogurt, and zesty dressing is truly a match made in heaven.

I have always believed in the power of food to bring people together, and this salad is a perfect example of that. It embodies the essence of sharing and connection, and every time I make it, I am reminded of all the wonderful moments I have shared with loved ones over a meal.

In a way, this Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad has become more than just a recipe to me. It is a symbol of love, tradition, and togetherness. It holds a special place in my heart, and I will always cherish the memories associated with it.

As I sit here in my kitchen, preparing the ingredients for another batch of this beloved salad, I can't help but feel grateful for all the joy and happiness it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and sharing my recipes with others has been a true privilege.

I may have learned this recipe from a neighbor many years ago, but it has since become a part of my own culinary identity. It is a dish that I will continue to make for years to come, passing it down to future generations and sharing its delicious flavors with all those I hold dear.

And so, as I take a bite of the freshly made salad, I am filled with a sense of contentment and satisfaction. This Cold Spinach and Yoghurt Salad may just be a simple dish, but to me, it is so much more than that. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to nourish both body and soul. And for that, I am truly grateful.