Salata Khiyar

Salata Khiyar Recipe - A Refreshing Salad from Egypt and Italy

Region / culture: Egypt, Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Salata Khiyar is a refreshing and flavorful Middle Eastern cucumber salad that is perfect for hot summer days. This simple yet delicious salad is a staple in many Middle Eastern households and is often served as a side dish or appetizer.

History

Salata Khiyar has been a popular dish in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. Cucumbers are a common ingredient in Middle Eastern cooking, and this salad is a great way to showcase their crisp and refreshing flavor. The combination of fresh herbs, olive oil, and vinegar in the dressing adds a burst of flavor to the dish.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
0.5 cucumber, thinly sliced in halves
3 tbsp of fresh mint, finely chopped
1 tbsp of olive oil
1 tbsp of vinegar
1 tbsp of sugar
1 tsp of salt
a pinch of black pepper

How to prepare

In a medium bowl, add the salt to the cucumber slices and mix well. Set aside.
To make the dressing, place the chopped parsley, olive oil, vinegar, sugar, and mint in a large bowl. Mix well together.
Place the cucumber slices on absorbent paper to soak up excess water.
Set aside for a couple of minutes.
Add the cucumbers to the dressing and mix well.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or red onions for extra flavor and color.
Sprinkle feta cheese or olives on top for a Mediterranean twist.
Use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a tangier dressing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for the best texture and flavor.

- Allowing the cucumbers to sit with salt helps to draw out excess moisture and enhances the flavor of the salad.

- Make sure to mix the dressing well to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

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

Serving Suggestions

Serve Salata Khiyar as a side dish with grilled meats or as a light and refreshing appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires simple slicing and mixing techniques, making it easy and quick to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of vinegar or lemon juice in place of the vinegar in the dressing. You can also use different herbs such as dill or cilantro.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and slice the cucumbers ahead of time, but it is best to mix them together just before serving to maintain the freshness of the salad.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Salata Khiyar in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with extra herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel. It also goes well with hummus and pita bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served fresh and is not recommended for reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 60 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 6g per serving

Fats

Fats: 4g per serving

Proteins

Proteins: 1g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free.

Summary

Salata Khiyar is a low-calorie and nutritious salad that is packed with vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to add more vegetables to their diet.

Summary

Salata Khiyar is a simple and delicious Middle Eastern cucumber salad that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh and vibrant flavors, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Salata Khiyar. I was a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my mother. She was a master in the kitchen, effortlessly whipping up delicious meals that always left us wanting more. One day, she invited a friend over for lunch and together they made this refreshing cucumber salad that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

As I watched them chop the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, I couldn't help but be intrigued by the combination of flavors and textures. The dressing was a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs that brought everything together in a harmonious blend. I couldn't wait to try it for myself.

After my mother's friend left, I asked her for the recipe and she graciously shared it with me. She explained that Salata Khiyar is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is commonly served as a side dish or appetizer. It is perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and refreshing to cool you down.

I eagerly set out to make the salad on my own, carefully following the instructions my mother had given me. I chopped the vegetables with precision, making sure to keep the pieces uniform in size. I mixed together the dressing, tasting it until it was just right. And finally, I tossed everything together in a large bowl, marveling at the vibrant colors and fresh aroma that filled the air.

When I took my first bite of the Salata Khiyar, I was transported to a world of flavors and memories. The crisp cucumbers paired perfectly with the juicy tomatoes and the sharp bite of the onions. The dressing added a tangy kick that tied everything together beautifully. It was a dish that was simple yet elegant, humble yet full of character.

Over the years, I have made Salata Khiyar countless times, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. Sometimes I would add a handful of fresh herbs from my garden, other times I would sprinkle in some feta cheese for a creamy touch. But no matter how I made it, the salad always brought a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed down the recipe for Salata Khiyar to my children and grandchildren. I watched with pride as they carefully chopped the vegetables, mixed the dressing, and tossed everything together with the same love and care that I had put into it all those years ago.

Now, whenever we gather for a meal, Salata Khiyar is always on the table, a reminder of the bond that ties us together and the traditions that we hold dear. It is a dish that has traveled through time and generations, carrying with it the stories and memories of those who came before us.

And as I sit here, reminiscing about the day I first learned to make Salata Khiyar, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasures of cooking and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. The recipe may have come from a friend long ago, but the memories and moments that it has created will stay with me forever.