Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña
Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña Recipe from Cuba
Introduction
Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña, or Avocado and Pineapple Salad, is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the sweet and tangy taste of pineapple. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses.
History
This recipe has its roots in Cuban cuisine, where the combination of avocado and pineapple is a popular choice for salads. The tropical flavors of the pineapple pair perfectly with the creamy avocado, creating a delicious and unique dish that is loved by many.
Ingredients
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 cups of pineapple chunks
- 1 large avocado, peeled and sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- olive oil
- red wine or cider vinegar
- salt and pepper
How to prepare
- Combine the above ingredients to prepare a straightforward Cuban-style salad.
Variations
- Add some cooked shrimp or grilled chicken for a protein boost.
- Mix in some fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for added flavor.
- Substitute the pineapple with mango or papaya for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to use ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of olive oil and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.
- For added crunch, you can sprinkle some toasted nuts or seeds on top of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish for a complete and balanced meal. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa for a more filling option.
Cooking Techniques
This salad requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare. Simply combine the ingredients in a bowl and toss gently to mix.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have pineapple, you can use mango or papaya instead. You can also substitute the avocado with cucumber or bell peppers for a different texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a pop of color.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It also goes well with a fruity cocktail or a glass of iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the avocado will become mushy. Serve chilled.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 200 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 20g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 15g per serving
Saturated Fat: 2g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 2g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 30% of the recommended daily intake per serving
Vitamin A: 15% of the recommended daily intake per serving
Potassium: 10% of the recommended daily intake per serving
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free. It may contain nuts.
Summary
Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña is a nutritious dish that is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and antioxidants, making it a healthy choice for any meal.
Summary
Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña is a delicious and nutritious salad that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its tropical flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña. It was a hot summer day, and I had been invited to a friend's barbecue. As I walked into her backyard, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of grilled meats and fresh veggies. But what really caught my attention was a colorful bowl of salad sitting on the picnic table.
I made my way over to the table and peered into the bowl. What I saw was a beautiful mixture of ripe avocados, juicy pineapple chunks, crisp red onions, and vibrant cilantro leaves. The colors and textures were so enticing, I just had to ask my friend for the recipe.
She laughed and told me that it was a family recipe passed down from her abuela. She explained that the combination of creamy avocados and sweet pineapple was a match made in heaven, and that the tangy vinaigrette dressing tied everything together perfectly. I was intrigued and knew that I had to try making it myself.
I asked my friend for a copy of the recipe, and she gladly obliged. As soon as I got home, I gathered all the ingredients and started prepping. I carefully diced the avocados and pineapple, thinly sliced the red onions, and chopped the cilantro. The vinaigrette was a simple concoction of olive oil, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
As I mixed everything together in a large bowl, the colors and smells reminded me of a tropical paradise. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the final product. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The creamy avocados paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy pineapple, while the red onions added a nice crunch and the cilantro added a burst of freshness.
I was hooked. This salad quickly became a staple at all of my summer gatherings. I would make it for barbecues, picnics, and potlucks, and it was always a hit. People would rave about how refreshing and flavorful it was, and I loved sharing the recipe with anyone who asked.
Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe. Sometimes I'll add a handful of toasted pepitas for extra crunch, or a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco for a creamy finish. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the dish remains the same – a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that never fails to impress.
I've shared this recipe with friends, family, and even strangers who have asked for it after trying it at one of my gatherings. And each time I do, I think back to that hot summer day when I first laid eyes on that bowl of Ensalada de Aguacate y Piña. It's funny how a simple salad can hold so many memories and bring people together.
So if you ever find yourself in need of a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress, look no further than this recipe. It's a true gem that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite in my kitchen. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Avocado Recipes | Cider Vinegar Recipes | Cuban Recipes | Cuban Salads | Iceberg Lettuce Recipes | Onion Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | Red Wine Recipes |