Creamy Yogurt Salad with Eastern Arabian Flavors

Ingredients

This Arabian adaptation of raita incorporates the unique flavors and spices of Eastern Arabian cuisine, such as sumac and toasted sesame seeds. It also uses a combination of fresh herbs like mint and parsley to enhance the freshness of the dish. These additions give the salad a distinct Arabian flair while still maintaining the creamy and tangy essence of the original raita. We alse have the original recipe for Raita, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) thick yogurt 2 cups (470ml) thick yogurt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 4g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, ground cumin, ground coriander, sumac, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the spices are evenly incorporated into the yogurt.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped mint leaves and parsley to the yogurt mixture. Stir gently to combine.
3. 3.
   Drizzle the olive oil over the yogurt salad and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
4. 4.
   Give the salad a final gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are well combined.
5. 5.
   Transfer the salad to a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve chilled and enjoy as a refreshing side dish or accompaniment to your favorite Arabian dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Mint leaves — Make sure to finely chop the mint leaves to release their aromatic oils and distribute the flavor evenly throughout the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, use Greek yogurt instead of regular yogurt.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a milder or spicier flavor.
• Serve the salad with warm pita bread or as a refreshing dip for vegetables.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or cilantro to add your own twist to the recipe.
• Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown for a richer flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the zesty Arabian yogurt salad chilled in a shallow bowl or on a platter. Garnish with a sprinkle of sumac and a few fresh mint leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, drizzle a little extra olive oil in a decorative pattern over the salad. Serve it alongside other Arabian dishes to create a visually appealing and cohesive spread.