Moldovan Tomato, Cucumber & Pepper Salad π π₯π«
Overview:
This vibrant Moldovan Tomato, Cucumber & Pepper Salad is a delightful contribution from my parents’ Moldovan exchange student, brimming with freshness and flavor. It’s not just a dish; it’s a culinary journey through Eastern European simplicity and taste. With its colorful medley of vegetables and tangy dressing, it’s an ideal addition to any meal or a standalone delight for those warm summer days when you crave something light and refreshing.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 300.8
- Fat Content: 20.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 6.6g
- Cholesterol Content: 26.8mg
- Sodium Content: 355.5mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 24.6g
- Fiber Content: 4.8g
- Sugar Content: 13.1g
- Protein Content: 8.7g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 | Tomatoes |
| 5 | Cucumbers |
| 2 | Bell Peppers |
| 1/2 | Red Onion |
| 1/4 | Fresh Parsley |
| 3 | Red Wine Vinegar |
| – | Feta Cheese |
| 4 | Olive Oil |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Salad Base:
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the vibrant tomatoes (quartered), crisp cucumbers (sliced), and the colorful bell peppers (sliced).
- Finely chop the red onion and fresh parsley, adding them to the bowl for an extra kick of flavor and texture.
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Create the Dressing:
- In a separate container, whisk together 4 tablespoons of olive oil with 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar until emulsified.
- Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting according to your taste preferences.
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Combine and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the salad mixture, ensuring every veggie gets coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Gently toss the salad to evenly distribute the dressing, making sure each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together and intensify.
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Final Touches:
- Just before serving, take the salad out of the fridge and give it a final taste test.
- Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar to suit your taste buds.
- To finish, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the top of the salad, adding a creamy and savory contrast to the crisp vegetables. Ensure not to mix it in; let it sit atop the colorful medley, enticing your taste buds with every bite.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Moldovan Tomato, Cucumber & Pepper Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or fish for a balanced meal bursting with flavor.
- It’s also perfect as a standalone salad for picnics, potlucks, or light lunches, offering a nutritious and delicious option for those seeking a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Pair it with crusty bread or pita chips for added crunch and texture, turning it into a complete and satisfying meal option for any occasion.
Recipe Notes:
- For a variation, you can add other seasonal vegetables like radishes, carrots, or even corn kernels to customize the salad according to your preferences.
- To make it a heartier meal, consider adding protein-rich ingredients such as grilled chicken, tofu, or chickpeas, transforming it into a satisfying main course option.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, keep in mind that the vegetables may become slightly softer over time.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices in the dressing, such as basil, oregano, or crushed garlic, to elevate the flavors and add your own unique twist to this classic Moldovan dish.
Conclusion:
Indulge in the flavors of Moldova with this simple yet sensational Tomato, Cucumber & Pepper Salad. Bursting with freshness, color, and flavor, it’s a celebration of summer produce that’s sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a family gathering, or simply craving a healthy and delicious meal, this Moldovan-inspired salad is a must-try recipe that will transport you to the sun-drenched fields of Eastern Europe with every bite. Enjoy! ππ₯
