Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin

Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin Recipe from Egypt

Region / culture: Egypt | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This refreshing and flavorful Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin is a perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion. The combination of sweet oranges, briny olives, and aromatic cumin creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.

History

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, where the combination of citrus fruits and olives is a common flavor pairing. The addition of cumin adds a warm and earthy note to the salad, making it a truly special dish.

Ingredients

8 navel oranges, peeled and white pith removed, sliced
0.75 cup good quality black olives, cut in half and pitted
1 red onion, sliced very thinly
juice of one medium-sized lemon
0.5 - 1 tsp ground cumin (to taste)
salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Toss together oranges and onion.
Mix together lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper, then whisk in oil.
Toss with the salad and serve.

Variations

Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as mint or parsley, for an extra burst of flavor.
Substitute blood oranges or grapefruit for the navel oranges for a different twist.
Add some feta cheese or toasted nuts for a creamy or crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe and juicy oranges for the best flavor.

- Slice the red onion very thinly to ensure that it blends well with the other ingredients.

- Adjust the amount of cumin to suit your personal taste preferences.

- For a more intense flavor, let the salad marinate in the dressing for a few hours before serving.

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. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side of quinoa.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires minimal cooking and is mostly about assembling the ingredients. The key is to slice the oranges and onions thinly and mix the dressing well to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have black olives, you can use green olives or Kalamata olives instead. You can also use shallots or scallions in place of the red onion.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Mix the salad and dressing together just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the salad in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cumin. You can also arrange the orange slices in a decorative pattern for a more visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes. It also goes well with a glass of crisp white wine or a citrusy cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors may intensify as it sits, making it even more delicious. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 150

Carbohydrates

Total Carbohydrates: 23g

Dietary Fiber: 5g

Sugar: 16g

Fats

Total Fat: 4g

Saturated Fat: 1g

Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 93% of the Daily Value

Calcium: 7% of the Daily Value

Iron: 3% of the Daily Value

Alergens

This recipe contains olives, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

This Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin is a healthy and nutritious dish that is high in vitamin C and fiber. It is a great option for those looking to add more fruits and vegetables to their diet.

Summary

This Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin is a simple yet elegant dish that is bursting with flavor and nutrition. It is a perfect addition to any meal and is sure to impress your family and friends with its unique combination of ingredients. Enjoy this refreshing salad as a light and healthy option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and I always loved trying out new recipes with her. On this particular day, she had prepared a delicious and refreshing Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make this incredible dish.

Maria smiled as she saw my enthusiastic reaction to the salad. "I'm so glad you like it, my dear," she said. "This recipe has been in my family for generations. Would you like me to teach you how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, and Maria began to show me the steps to create this flavorful salad. She started by slicing the oranges into thin rounds, carefully removing the peel and pith. Then, she arranged the orange slices on a beautiful serving platter, sprinkling them with a generous handful of briny black olives.

Next came the magical ingredient - cumin. Maria took a small mortar and pestle and ground the cumin seeds into a fragrant powder. She then sprinkled the cumin over the oranges and olives, along with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The combination of flavors was simply divine, and I couldn't wait to try making it myself.

As I watched Maria prepare the salad, she shared the story of how she first learned to make it. She explained that the recipe had been passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a Moroccan friend many years ago. The unique blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors was a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the dish.

After we had finished our meal, Maria handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe. "Now you can make this delicious salad whenever you like," she said with a warm smile. I thanked her profusely and promised to cherish the recipe for years to come.

When I returned home that evening, I couldn't wait to recreate the Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin in my own kitchen. I carefully followed the steps that Maria had shown me, slicing the oranges with precision and sprinkling the cumin with care. As I took my first bite of the finished dish, I was transported back to that sunny day in Maria's kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and love of a dear friend.

Since then, I have made the Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin countless times, sharing it with friends and family who are always amazed by its unique and tantalizing flavors. Each time I prepare the dish, I think of Maria and the special bond we share through our love of cooking and sharing recipes.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just because of its delicious taste, but because of the memories and stories that it holds. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create connections and share traditions across generations. And it is a testament to the joy and creativity that can be found in the simple act of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones.

I will always be grateful to Maria for introducing me to this amazing recipe and for sharing her culinary wisdom with me. The Orange and Olive Salad with Cumin will forever be a cherished part of my repertoire, a reminder of the friendship and joy that can be found in a shared love of good food.