Maharashtrian Style Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

In this Maharashtrian adaptation, the original Salata Varaždin is transformed into a spicy and tangy tomato and cucumber salad. The flavors are influenced by the vibrant spices and zesty ingredients commonly used in Maharashtrian cuisine. The original dish's creamy dressing is replaced with a zesty dressing that complements the fresh vegetables and adds a tangy kick. The salad is also garnished with fresh coriander leaves, which adds a burst of freshness and enhances the flavors of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Salata Varaždin, so you can check it out.

• 2 large tomatoes, diced (400g) 2 large tomatoes, diced (400g)
• 2 cucumbers, peeled and diced (400g) 2 cucumbers, peeled and diced (400g)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped (100g) 1 small red onion, finely chopped (100g)
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml) 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala 1 teaspoon chaat masala
• 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
• Salt to taste Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 60 kcal / 251 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.5g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 14g, 8g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and green chilies.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, cumin powder, chaat masala, red chili powder, and salt.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the tomato and cucumber mixture and toss well to coat.
4. 4.
   Garnish the salad with fresh coriander leaves.
5. 5.
   Allow the salad to marinate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve the Maharashtrian Style Tomato and Cucumber Salad chilled.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Tomatoes — Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If the tomatoes are not very flavorful, you can sprinkle a pinch of sugar to enhance their taste.
• Cucumbers — Remove the seeds from the cucumbers before dicing them to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
• Green chilies — Adjust the amount of green chilies according to your spice preference. You can remove the seeds for a milder heat.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crunch, you can add roasted peanuts or crushed papadums to the salad.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. You can increase or decrease the amount of red chili powder and green chilies to make the salad spicier or milder.
• Make sure to marinate the salad for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.

Serving advice

Serve the Maharashtrian Style Tomato and Cucumber Salad as a side dish with traditional Maharashtrian meals like Varan Bhaat (lentil curry with rice) or Misal Pav (spicy sprout curry with bread). It can also be enjoyed as a light and refreshing snack on its own.

Presentation advice

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of chaat masala and a few fresh coriander leaves to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal. Serve it in a vibrant bowl or on a platter to make it visually appealing.