Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad, often referred to as “Saladë Tomate dhe Dardha” in Albanian, is a refreshing and simple salad that is popular in Albanian cuisine. Here’s all the information you requested:
What is it:
Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad is a light and healthy salad made with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs, typically seasoned with olive oil, vinegar, and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s known for its vibrant flavors and crisp textures.
History:
This salad is a common dish in Albanian households and is enjoyed throughout the country. It’s a staple during the summer months when tomatoes and cucumbers are in season. The salad’s history is rooted in traditional Albanian cuisine, which emphasizes the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Components:
The key components of Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad are:
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Tomatoes: Fresh and ripe tomatoes are the base of the salad, providing sweetness and juiciness.
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Cucumbers: Crisp and crunchy cucumbers add a refreshing element to the salad.
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Onions: Thinly sliced red or white onions are used to add a mild, pungent flavor.
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Olive Oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is used for dressing, enhancing the salad’s richness and flavor.
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Vinegar: White wine vinegar or red wine vinegar is typically used to add acidity to the dressing.
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Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and mint are often added for a burst of freshness.
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Spices: Salt and black pepper are commonly used to season the salad.
Steps to Prepare Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad:
Here’s a basic recipe for preparing this salad:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and dice fresh tomatoes and cucumbers. Thinly slice onions. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix olive oil, vinegar, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
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Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables. Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley and mint.
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Mix Gently: Toss the salad gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly.
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Chill: Refrigerate the salad for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve: Serve the Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad as a side dish or a refreshing appetizer.
Time Needed:
The preparation of this salad typically takes about 15-20 minutes, and an additional 30 minutes for chilling. So, in total, you can have this delicious salad ready to serve in approximately 45-50 minutes.
Enjoy your Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad, and I hope you find this information helpful!
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):
- Calories: 50-60 calories
- Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 3-4 grams
- Protein: 1-2 grams
- Fat: 3-4 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1 gram
- Sodium: 100-200 milligrams
- Vitamin C: 10-15% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin K: 10-15% DV
- Potassium: 5-7% DV
Health Information:
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Low in Calories: Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad is a low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
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Rich in Vitamins: It’s a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. It also contains vitamin K, important for bone health and blood clotting.
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Hydrating: The high water content of cucumbers and tomatoes helps keep you hydrated, especially during hot weather.
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Dietary Fiber: The salad provides dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
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Antioxidants: Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may have protective effects against certain diseases.
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Low in Saturated Fat: The salad is naturally low in saturated fat, making it heart-healthy.
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Low Sodium: It’s relatively low in sodium, which is beneficial for those watching their salt intake.
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Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh vegetables and herbs means you’re getting a variety of nutrients in a natural and unprocessed form.
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Vegan-Friendly: Albanian Tomato Cucumber Salad is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
Keep in mind that the nutritional content may vary based on the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. This salad is a healthy and refreshing choice that can be part of a balanced diet.
