Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja
Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja Recipe from Nicaragua - Lime, Chile Powder, Scallions, Cilantro
Introduction
Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja is a refreshing and vibrant salad that combines the crisp texture of jicama with the sweet and tangy flavors of oranges. This dish is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement a variety of main courses.
History
This recipe originates from Mexico, where jicama and oranges are commonly used in traditional cuisine. The combination of these two ingredients creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- In a bowl, mix together the lime juice and habanero powder.
- Place the orange segments on a platter and layer with jicama and onions.
- Drizzle the lime juice mixture over the salad, sprinkle with cilantro, and serve.
Variations
- Add diced avocado for creaminess.
- Top with toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
- Mix in some diced cucumber for extra freshness.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to julienne the jicama thinly to ensure a crisp texture in the salad.
- Adjust the amount of habanero chile powder to suit your spice preference.
- For added flavor, you can also add a sprinkle of Tajin seasoning or chili powder to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This salad can be served as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to julienne the jicama thinly for the best texture.
- Use a sharp knife to segment the oranges cleanly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can't find jicama, you can substitute with daikon radish or cucumber.
- Substitute lemon juice for lime juice if needed.
Make Ahead Tips
This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the salad in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with extra cilantro leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or as a side dish to a Mexican-inspired meal.
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
Calories: 100 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Fats
Fats: 0g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 1g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This salad is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and potassium from the oranges and jicama.
Alergens
This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.
Summary
Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense salad that is packed with vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja is a delicious and healthy salad that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its vibrant colors and flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
How did I get this recipe?
The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to Mexico to visit some old friends. While I was there, I had the pleasure of sampling many delicious dishes, but one in particular stood out to me - Ensalada de Jicama y Naranja.
I remember sitting in my friend's kitchen, watching as she effortlessly peeled and sliced the jicama, an unfamiliar vegetable to me at the time. She explained that jicama was a crunchy root vegetable with a mild, slightly sweet flavor, and that it was commonly used in Mexican cuisine. She then added freshly squeezed orange juice, a splash of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder to the jicama, creating a refreshing and tangy salad that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
As I took my first bite of the ensalada de jicama y naranja, I was instantly hooked. The combination of the crisp jicama, juicy orange segments, and tangy dressing was a burst of flavors in my mouth. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.
My friend graciously shared her recipe with me, and I eagerly took notes as she guided me through the process. She explained that the key to a good ensalada de jicama y naranja was to use fresh, ripe oranges and jicama, and to balance the flavors of sweet, tangy, and spicy just right. She also stressed the importance of letting the salad marinate in the dressing for at least an hour before serving, to allow the flavors to meld together.
After returning home from my trip, I wasted no time in trying out the recipe for myself. I gathered all the ingredients - jicama, oranges, lime, chili powder, and a touch of salt - and set to work in my own kitchen. As I peeled and sliced the jicama, the familiar scent of citrus filled the air, transporting me back to that sunny kitchen in Mexico.
I carefully mixed the jicama with the orange segments, squeezing in the fresh lime juice and sprinkling in the chili powder and salt. I let the salad sit in the refrigerator for an hour, eagerly anticipating the moment when I could finally taste my creation.
When the time came to serve the ensalada de jicama y naranja, I couldn't contain my excitement. I plated the salad and took my first bite, savoring the burst of flavors that exploded in my mouth. The crisp jicama, the juicy oranges, the tangy lime, and the spicy chili powder all came together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was both refreshing and satisfying.
From that day on, ensalada de jicama y naranja became a staple in my repertoire of recipes. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted a taste of Mexico in my own home. Each time I prepared the dish, I would think back to that summer day in my friend's kitchen, and I would be grateful for the experience that had introduced me to such a delicious and unique salad.
As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to suit my tastes. Sometimes I would add a handful of diced jalapeños for an extra kick, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. No matter how I tweaked the recipe, the essence of the ensalada de jicama y naranja remained the same - a simple, yet flavorful dish that never failed to impress.
And so, whenever I prepare this salad now, I am filled with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude for the memories and friendships that brought this recipe into my life. It serves as a reminder of the beauty and richness of Mexican cuisine, and of the joy that comes from exploring new flavors and ingredients. Ensalada de jicama y naranja will always hold a special place in my heart, as a dish that represents not just a taste of Mexico, but a taste of the wonderful experiences and connections that food can bring.
Categories
| Jícama Recipes | Lime Juice Recipes | Nicaraguan Recipes | Nicaraguan Salads | Orange Recipes | Red Chile Powder Recipes |