Shahi Salad

Shahi Salad Recipe from Pakistan with Tomatoes, Potatoes, Onions, Cucumbers, Eggs, and Lemon

Region / culture: Pakistan | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Shahi Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light meal or as a side dish. This salad is a combination of fresh vegetables, boiled eggs, and a tangy lemon dressing that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

History

Shahi Salad is a traditional Indian salad that is often served as a side dish with main meals. The word "Shahi" means royal in Hindi, and this salad is indeed fit for royalty with its vibrant colors and flavors.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Boil the peeled potatoes and cut them into small pieces.
Cut the tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions into small pieces.
Mix the potato pieces with the cut vegetables, add slices of boiled eggs, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add a little lemon juice and serve as is or chilled.

Variations

Add chopped mint or cilantro for a fresh herb flavor.
Mix in some diced bell peppers or carrots for added crunch.
Drizzle with a yogurt-based dressing for a creamy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender but not mushy.

- Use fresh and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more or less salt and pepper.

- For a creamier texture, you can add a dollop of yogurt or mayonnaise to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Shahi Salad as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish, or enjoy it on its own as a light and refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling, chopping, mixing

Ingredient Substitutions

Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.

- Substitute red or yellow bell peppers for the tomatoes for a colorful twist.

- Use red or white onions instead of yellow onions for a milder or stronger flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetables and eggs ahead of time and assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Shahi Salad in a decorative bowl or on a bed of lettuce for an elegant presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Shahi Salad with grilled meats, kebabs, or rice dishes for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with flatbreads or naan.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Shahi Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature or enjoy it chilled.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Shahi Salad typically contains around 150-200 calories, making it a light and healthy option for a meal or snack.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this Shahi Salad mainly come from the potatoes, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. These vegetables provide essential energy for your body to function properly.

Fats

The fats in this salad primarily come from the boiled eggs. Eggs are a good source of healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.

Proteins

The protein in this Shahi Salad comes from the boiled eggs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an important nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the tomatoes and lemon juice, potassium from the potatoes, and fiber from the vegetables. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs, which are a common allergen. If you have an egg allergy, you can omit the eggs from the salad or substitute them with another protein source.

Summary

Overall, Shahi Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy option for a light meal or snack.

Summary

Shahi Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and full of fresh flavors. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Mrs. Patel, who had graciously invited me over for lunch. As we sat down at the table, I was greeted by a colorful and fragrant dish that she called Shahi Salad.

I took one bite and was instantly transported to a world of exotic flavors and spices. The combination of fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and a creamy dressing was absolutely divine. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

Mrs. Patel saw the look of delight on my face and laughed. "I'm glad you like it, my dear. This recipe has been in my family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter. Would you like me to teach you how to make it?"

I eagerly nodded, and thus began my journey to mastering the art of making Shahi Salad. Mrs. Patel patiently guided me through each step, explaining the importance of using the freshest ingredients and the right balance of spices.

As I chopped the vegetables and fruits, I could feel the connection to my grandmother, who was also a talented cook. She had taught me the value of patience and attention to detail in the kitchen, skills that I now put to good use as I prepared the salad.

The dressing was a blend of yogurt, honey, and a special mix of spices that Mrs. Patel had carefully measured out. As I stirred it together, the aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the salad was assembled, I took a bite and closed my eyes in bliss. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each ingredient complementing the others perfectly. Mrs. Patel smiled at me, her eyes twinkling with pride.

"Congratulations, my dear. You have mastered the art of making Shahi Salad. Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe. It's about putting love and care into every dish you create."

I thanked Mrs. Patel for her guidance and vowed to make this dish for my family and friends, sharing the joy and flavors of Shahi Salad with all who tasted it. And so, the recipe became a staple in my kitchen, a reminder of the day I learned a new culinary tradition from a dear friend.

Over the years, I have continued to make Shahi Salad, adapting it to my own tastes and preferences. I have added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different ingredients and spices to create a version that is uniquely mine.

But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that warm summer day with Mrs. Patel will always remain with me. It is a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting memories and connections that span generations.

And so, I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild. May you enjoy making Shahi Salad as much as I have, and may it bring you as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delicious aromas of love and tradition.