Salaat (Nigerien Tomato, Carrot and Cucumber Salad)
In short: A colorful salad of tomato, cucumber, carrot and onion with young moringa leaves and a lemon and oil dressing, served before the main dish in Niger. It takes about 15 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 0 min
- Total
- 15 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 145 kcal
In Niger a plate of fresh salad often comes to the table before the main dish. It is built from whatever is in the market: tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots and raw onion, with tender moringa leaves when they are in season. The dressing is simple, lemon juice and oil with salt and pepper. It is bright and crunchy, and it balances a rich stew or grilled meat.
Instructions
- Whisk the lemon juice, oil, salt, pepper and chili in a large bowl.
- Add the tomatoes, cucumber, carrots and onion to the bowl and toss gently so the vegetables are coated.
- Let the salad stand for 10 minutes so the onion softens and the juices mingle.
- Add the moringa leaves just before serving and toss once more. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Tips
- Fresh moringa leaves are slightly bitter and peppery. If you cannot find them, baby spinach or arugula gives a similar fresh note.
- Soak the sliced onion in cold water for 5 minutes if you want a milder bite. Drain well before adding it.
Questions and answers
Can I make the salad ahead?
Prepare the vegetables and dressing separately up to 3 hours ahead and toss them just before serving. Dressed tomatoes and cucumbers release water and go limp.
What do I serve with it?
Grilled meat or fish, rice dishes, or a stew with a starchy side. It is also a light lunch on its own with bread.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Cabbage, radishes, green beans or boiled potatoes are all common additions.
How long does it take to make Salaat (Nigerien Tomato, Carrot and Cucumber Salad)?
About 15 min in total: 15 min of preparation and 0 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Salaat (Nigerien Tomato, Carrot and Cucumber Salad)?
About 145 kcal per serving, with 2 g of protein, 12 g of carbohydrates and 10 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 145 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
