Assyrian Palm Heart Salad

Ingredients

In the original Martinican cuisine, Salade de palmiste is typically made with ingredients like palm hearts, avocado, tomatoes, and vinaigrette dressing. However, in this Assyrian adaptation, we have incorporated Assyrian spices and flavors to create a unique twist. The addition of Assyrian spices adds a distinct aroma and taste to the salad, making it a true representation of Assyrian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Salade de palmiste, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (470ml) palm hearts, sliced 2 cups (470ml) palm hearts, sliced
• 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced palm hearts, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. 5.
   Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Palm hearts — Make sure to drain and rinse the palm hearts before slicing them. This will remove any excess brine and enhance their flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of sumac or Aleppo pepper to the dressing.
• If palm hearts are not readily available, you can substitute them with artichoke hearts for a similar texture and taste.
• To make the salad more substantial, you can add some cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
• Adjust the amount of spices and lemon juice according to your personal taste preferences.
• Serve the salad chilled for maximum freshness and flavor.

Serving advice

Serve the Assyrian Palm Heart Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own. It pairs well with Assyrian flatbread or pita bread.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, arrange the salad on a large platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs, such as mint or basil leaves. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top for a glossy finish.