Pumpkin Salad (Tirshi)
Overview:
Pumpkin Salad, also known as Tirshi, is a delightful dish that transcends seasons, making it a perfect addition to any table, whether it’s Thanksgiving or any regular day. Hailing from the rich culinary traditions of Sephardic cuisine, this salad brings together a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and cultural influences. It’s a true celebration of vegetables with a touch of warmth from spices like paprika and cinnamon, balanced by the zing of lemon juice. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also a wholesome and healthy choice, suitable for vegans and those seeking low-cholesterol options. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 25.7 per serving
- Fat Content: 1.8g
- Saturated Fat Content: 0.2g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 73.2mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 2.8g
- Fiber Content: 0.3g
- Sugar Content: 0.6g
- Protein Content: 0.4g
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Pumpkin puree |
| 1/2 | Paprika |
| 2 | Garlic cloves |
| 1/4 | Ground cinnamon |
| 3 | Lemon juice |
| 1/4 | Salt |
| 1 | Cous cous (for serving) |
Instructions:
-
Preparation:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut the pumpkin (or winter squash) in half, and remove any seeds and fibrous strands.
- Place the pumpkin halves cut side down on a foil-lined baking sheet.
-
-
Roasting the Pumpkin:
- Bake the pumpkin halves in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
-
Making the Pumpkin Puree:
- Once the pumpkin is roasted and cooled slightly, separate the pulp from the skin and seeds.
- Mash the pumpkin pulp using a fork or potato masher until it becomes a smooth puree.
-
Preparing the Salad:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree with paprika, minced garlic cloves, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well blended, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
-
Chilling and Serving:
- Refrigerate the pumpkin salad for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to cool.
- Once chilled, serve the pumpkin salad alongside cous cous for a delightful and satisfying meal.
Recipe Notes:
- Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe according to your taste preferences. You can adjust the spice levels by adding more or less paprika and cinnamon. Additionally, you can incorporate other ingredients like chopped herbs, diced vegetables, or nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just be sure to give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
- Presentation: Garnish the pumpkin salad with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a handful of toasted seeds for an elegant presentation and extra crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: While this pumpkin salad is delicious on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for salads and sandwiches.
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this Pumpkin Salad (Tirshi) is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, offering a taste of tradition and culinary creativity in every bite. Enjoy this delightful salad year-round, and savor the rich tapestry of flavors it brings to your table. 🎃🥗
