๐ต Welcome to the delightful world of Cactus Paddle Salad, also known as Ensalada de Nopalitos! ๐ฅ This vibrant dish, originating from the heart of Mexican cuisine, promises a burst of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether youโre craving a quick snack, a refreshing side dish, or a zesty relish to accompany your main course, this recipe has got you covered! ๐ฒ๐ฝ
Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the essence of simplicity and freshness, all within a mere 15 minutes of your time! With minimal prep and maximum flavor, youโll be amazed at how easily this dish comes together. So, gather your ingredients and letโs dive into the art of crafting the perfect Cactus Paddle Salad.
Cactus Paddle Salad/Relish or Ensalada de Nopalitos Recipe
๐ Prep Time: 15 minutes
๐ Total Time: 15 minutes
๐ฝ๏ธ Yield: Serves 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 cactus paddle, diced into 1/2-1/4 inch pieces
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- 1/4 โ 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 6-8 sprigs of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cactus:
If the cactus paddle is in large chunks, carefully dice it into 1/2-1/4 inch pieces. Ensure to remove any spines or tough edges for a smooth texture. -
Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, toss together the diced cactus paddle, tomato, red onion, and chopped cilantro. This medley of fresh ingredients sets the stage for a vibrant and flavorful salad. -
Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cider vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This tangy and aromatic dressing adds a delightful zest to the salad, elevating its taste profile to new heights. -
Toss and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss until all the ingredients are evenly coated. The flavors will mingle harmoniously, creating a symphony of taste and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, refreshing goodness of Cactus Paddle Salad!
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 41.7
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 76.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 2.6g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 1.4g
- Protein: 0.5g
Recipe Notes:
- Variation: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an extra burst of citrusy flavor, or toss in some diced avocado for creaminess.
- Storage: Cactus Paddle Salad can be refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious with time.
- Serve with: Enjoy this salad as a standalone dish, or use it as a relish to complement tacos, grilled meats, or even as a topping for nachos.
With its vibrant colors, refreshing flavors, and nutritional goodness, Cactus Paddle Salad/Relish or Ensalada de Nopalitos is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the essence of Mexican cuisine, and savor every delectable bite of this delightful dish! ๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ถ๏ธ
