Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad

Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad Recipe - Ingredients and Steps

Region / culture: Morocco | Preparation time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of oranges with the crunch of toasted walnuts. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish for a larger spread.

History

This recipe is inspired by the vibrant and aromatic flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Oranges are a common ingredient in Moroccan dishes, often used in salads and desserts to add a burst of citrusy sweetness. Walnuts are also a popular ingredient in Moroccan cooking, adding a rich and nutty flavor to dishes.

Ingredients

6 oranges
1 tbsp honey
0.5 tsp cinnamon
1 lb (454 g) mixed salad greens
0.5 cup thinly sliced red onion
1 cup thinly sliced radishes
3 tsp extra virgin olive oil
salt
freshly ground black pepper
1 cup toasted walnut halves

How to prepare

Peel the oranges and separate them into sections. Squeeze any excess juice into the bowl with the segments.
Pour honey and cinnamon over the orange slices and let them stand for an hour.
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining ingredients well, seasoning to taste with salt and fresh ground black pepper.
Add the oranges and juice to the mixture, toss well, and serve.
This recipe serves 4.

Variations

Add crumbled feta cheese for a creamy and tangy twist.
Substitute the oranges with grapefruit for a different citrus flavor.
Add cooked quinoa or couscous to make the salad more filling.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor and crunch.

- For a sweeter salad, you can add a bit more honey to the orange slices.

- Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients such as feta cheese or avocado.

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the walnuts adds depth of flavor to the salad and enhances their crunch. Make sure to watch them carefully as they can burn quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have oranges, you can use tangerines or clementines instead. You can also substitute the walnuts with almonds or pecans.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the orange slices and dressing ahead of time and toss everything together just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large bowl or on individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. It also goes well with a side of couscous or roasted vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may become slightly wilted, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 250 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 24g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 15g per serving

Saturated Fat: 1.5g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 120% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Iron: 6% of the daily recommended intake per serving

Alergens

Contains nuts (walnuts)

Summary

This salad is a good source of vitamin C and healthy fats from the walnuts. It is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a nutritious choice for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of oranges with the crunch of toasted walnuts. This salad is a nutritious and delicious choice for a light meal or side dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly remember the moment I discovered this recipe for Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Morocco. She had brought back all sorts of exotic spices and ingredients, and she was eager to show me how to make one of her favorite dishes.

As we sat in her sunny kitchen, she began to peel and slice oranges with deft fingers, the fragrant citrus scent filling the room. She then tossed the oranges with a handful of toasted walnuts and a sprinkling of cinnamon, creating a vibrant and enticing salad that was both sweet and savory.

I took a bite and was instantly transported to a bustling Moroccan marketplace, the flavors of the salad dancing on my tongue. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

My friend graciously shared the recipe with me, explaining each step in detail and giving me tips on where to find the best ingredients. I took notes eagerly, my pen scratching across the paper as I tried to capture every nuance of the dish.

Back home, I set to work recreating the salad in my own kitchen. I sourced the freshest oranges I could find, carefully toasting the walnuts to bring out their nutty flavor. I sprinkled the cinnamon with a light hand, remembering my friend's advice to let the natural sweetness of the fruit shine through.

As I plated the salad and took my first bite, I knew I had succeeded. The flavors were bright and bold, a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy that was utterly addictive. I couldn't wait to share this dish with my family and friends, to introduce them to the magic of Moroccan cuisine.

Over the years, I have made this salad countless times, each batch a little different from the last as I experimented with new twists and variations. Sometimes I add a handful of pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and tartness, or I drizzle the salad with a honey and orange blossom water dressing for an extra touch of sweetness.

No matter how I choose to prepare it, the Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad never fails to delight and impress. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that I am proud to share with anyone who is lucky enough to sit at my table.

As I passed down the recipe to my children and grandchildren, I couldn't help but think of the journey that brought me to this moment. From that sunny kitchen in Morocco to my own humble abode, this salad has been a constant companion, a reminder of the power of friendship and the joy of discovery.

And so, as I prepare to make another batch of Moroccan Orange Walnut Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that brought this recipe into my life. It is a treasure that I will cherish always, a taste of Morocco that will forever hold a special place in my heart.