Syrian-inspired Spicy Watercress Salad

Ingredients

In the original Spanish dish, Berros regionales, watercress is typically served as a simple salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing. In this Syrian adaptation, we elevate the flavors by incorporating traditional Syrian spices like cumin and sumac, and adding a touch of heat with Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes. The garnishes of toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds provide a unique twist and enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Berros regionales, so you can check it out.

• 4 cups (120g) watercress, washed and trimmed 4 cups (120g) watercress, washed and trimmed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted
• 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the watercress, olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, sumac, Aleppo pepper or red pepper flakes, and salt. Toss well to coat the watercress evenly.
2. 2.
   Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds over the salad.
3. 3.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this Syrian-inspired Spicy Watercress Salad.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Watercress — Make sure to wash and trim the watercress thoroughly to remove any dirt or tough stems before using it in the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of freshness, add some chopped mint leaves to the salad.
• If Aleppo pepper or sumac is not available, you can substitute them with paprika and lemon zest respectively.
• Toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown for a nuttier flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Syrian-inspired Spicy Watercress Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch option. It pairs well with warm pita bread or as a topping for falafel wraps.

Presentation advice

Arrange the watercress salad on a large platter, allowing the vibrant green color of the watercress to shine through. Sprinkle the toasted pine nuts and pomegranate seeds generously over the top for an eye-catching presentation.