Nauruan-Style Coconut and Vegetable Salad

Ingredients

While the original Qapchi is a Peruvian dish made with cheese and aji amarillo peppers, this adapted Nauruan version replaces the cheese with coconut to cater to the tropical flavors of the target cuisine. Additionally, the Nauruan version incorporates lime juice and chili to enhance the tanginess and spiciness, respectively, which are characteristic flavors of Nauruan cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Qapchi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) fresh coconut, grated 2 cups (470ml) fresh coconut, grated
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green chili, finely chopped 1 green chili, finely chopped
• Juice of 2 limes Juice of 2 limes
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 14g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated coconut, diced cucumber, red and yellow bell peppers, tomatoes, red onion, and green chili.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and salt to make the dressing.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to coat all the ingredients.
4. 4.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. 5.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut — Ensure you use fresh grated coconut for the best flavor and texture. If fresh coconut is not available, you can use unsweetened desiccated coconut as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the salad.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less green chili according to your preference.
• Serve the salad immediately after preparing to retain its crispness.

Serving advice

This Coconut and Vegetable Salad can be served as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled fish or chicken. It pairs well with Nauruan-style rice dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy meal.

Presentation advice

Present the salad in a large, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables and coconut. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro for an added touch of elegance.