Caribbean Caesar Salad

Ingredients

While the original Caesar Salad is known for its creamy dressing and croutons, this Caribbean adaptation incorporates tropical elements such as fresh fruits, spicy peppers, and a tangy citrus dressing. The flavors are bolder and more vibrant, reflecting the lively Caribbean culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Caesar Salad, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) mixed salad greens 2 cups (470ml) mixed salad greens
• 1 cup (235ml) ripe mango, diced 1 cup (235ml) ripe mango, diced
• 1 cup (235ml) pineapple chunks 1 cup (235ml) pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup (120ml) red bell pepper, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (120ml) red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cucumber, thinly sliced 1/2 cup (120ml) cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup (60ml) red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh cilantro leaves 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup (60ml) roasted peanuts, chopped 1/4 cup (60ml) roasted peanuts, chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded coconut 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded coconut
• For the dressing: For the dressing:
• 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice 1/4 cup (60ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey 1 tablespoon (15ml) honey
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon (5ml) Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) Caribbean hot sauce 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) Caribbean hot sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 22g, 15g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, mango, pineapple, red bell pepper, cucumber, red onion, cilantro leaves, roasted peanuts, and shredded coconut.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, Caribbean hot sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4. 4.
   Serve immediately and enjoy the tropical flavors of the Caribbean Caesar Salad!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mango — Choose ripe mangoes for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Pineapple — Use fresh pineapple chunks or canned pineapple tidbits, drained.
• Caribbean hot sauce — Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness.
• Roasted peanuts — For added flavor, lightly toast the peanuts in a dry skillet before chopping.
• Shredded coconut — Use unsweetened shredded coconut for a natural and tropical taste.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more substantial meal, add grilled shrimp or chicken to the salad.
• Experiment with different tropical fruits such as papaya or kiwi for added variety.
• If you prefer a creamier dressing, blend in a ripe avocado with the lime juice and other dressing ingredients.
• To make it more Caribbean-inspired, sprinkle some jerk seasoning on the salad for an extra kick.
• Serve the salad in a hollowed-out pineapple for a stunning presentation.

Serving advice

Serve the Caribbean Caesar Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a light main course. Pair it with some crusty bread or plantain chips for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a large platter, garnishing it with additional cilantro leaves, shredded coconut, and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts. The vibrant colors and tropical elements will make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.