Labanos Salad

Labanos Salad Recipe - A Filipino Delight

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Labanos Salad is a refreshing and tangy Filipino dish made with daikon radish, tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and olive oil. This simple yet flavorful salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement your main course.

History

Labanos Salad is a popular dish in Filipino cuisine, known for its crisp texture and zesty flavor. The combination of daikon radish and tomatoes creates a unique and delicious salad that is loved by many.

Ingredients

How to prepare

1. Peel the skin of the radish. Slice the peeled radish into thin slices. Sprinkle the sliced radish with salt and mix well until the juice oozes out. You may want to squeeze out the juice. This step is to remove the pungent taste of the radish.
2. Slice the tomatoes into wedges.
3. Mix the radish slices with tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and olive oil.
4. Serve the dish cold.

Variations

Add chopped onions or garlic for extra flavor.
Mix in some chopped cilantro or parsley for a fresh herbaceous touch.
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel the skin of the radish before slicing to remove any bitterness.

- Squeezing out the juice from the radish slices helps to mellow out the pungent taste of the radish.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

- Serve the Labanos Salad cold for a refreshing and appetizing dish.

Serving Suggestions

Labanos Salad can be served as a side dish to grilled meats, seafood, or rice dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and refreshing snack.

Cooking Techniques

Labanos Salad is a no-cook dish, making it quick and easy to prepare. Simply mix the ingredients together and serve cold.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find daikon radish, you can use regular radishes or jicama as a substitute. You can also use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice instead of white vinegar.

Make Ahead Tips

Labanos Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to mix the ingredients together right before serving to maintain the freshness of the salad.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Labanos Salad in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Labanos Salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or pork dishes. It also complements rice dishes such as fried rice or steamed white rice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Labanos Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the texture of the salad may become mushy. Serve cold straight from the refrigerator.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Labanos Salad typically contains around 100 calories, making it a light and satisfying dish.

Carbohydrates

Labanos Salad is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.

Fats

The olive oil in Labanos Salad provides healthy fats that are essential for a balanced diet.

Proteins

Labanos Salad is a protein-free dish, so be sure to pair it with a protein source to complete your meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Daikon radish is rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making Labanos Salad a nutritious choice for a healthy diet.

Alergens

Labanos Salad is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten, making it a safe option for those with food allergies.

Summary

Labanos Salad is a low-calorie, nutrient-rich dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement your main course.

Summary

Labanos Salad is a simple yet flavorful Filipino dish made with daikon radish, tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and olive oil. This refreshing and tangy salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to complement your main course. Enjoy the crisp texture and zesty flavor of Labanos Salad as a delicious addition to your next meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her beautiful garden. As we sat under the shade of a large tree sipping on iced tea, Maria suddenly got up and disappeared into her kitchen. Curious, I followed her inside and found her busily chopping up fresh vegetables.

"What are you making, Maria?" I asked, peering over her shoulder.

"Oh, just a simple Labanos Salad," she replied with a smile. "It's a Filipino dish that my grandmother used to make for me when I was a child. Would you like to try some?"

I eagerly nodded, and she handed me a bowl filled with the colorful mixture of grated radish, carrots, and tomatoes. As soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked. The flavors exploded in my mouth, a perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and savory. I couldn't stop eating it, much to Maria's amusement.

"Looks like you've found a new favorite, huh?" she teased.

I nodded enthusiastically. "Do you think you could teach me how to make it?"

Maria nodded and proceeded to show me the step-by-step process of making Labanos Salad. She explained that the key to a good salad lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the right balance of flavors. As she spoke, I took mental notes, determined to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Labanos Salad countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my taste. I have shared it with friends and family, who have all raved about its deliciousness. But my favorite memory of this dish will always be the day I first learned how to make it from Maria, my dear friend who introduced me to the wonders of Filipino cuisine.

As I sit in my kitchen now, preparing another batch of Labanos Salad, I can't help but think of all the wonderful recipes I have collected over the years. Each one tells a story, a memory of a special moment or person who taught me how to make it. And as I grate the radishes and slice the carrots, I am filled with gratitude for the rich tapestry of flavors and experiences that have shaped my culinary journey.

I know that one day, I will pass on these recipes to my grandchildren, just as my grandmother did for me. And I hope that they will find as much joy and satisfaction in cooking as I have. For there is nothing quite like the feeling of creating something delicious from scratch and sharing it with the ones you love.

So as I finish up my Labanos Salad and take a final taste, I offer a silent thank you to Maria, my dear friend who opened my eyes to the beauty of Filipino cuisine. And I raise my fork to all the wonderful recipes yet to discover, waiting to be savored and shared with those who appreciate the art of cooking. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good memories!