Congolese Olive Salad

Ingredients

In this Congolese adaptation, we incorporate local ingredients and flavors to give the dish a unique Congolese twist. We replace some of the traditional Turkish ingredients with Congolese counterparts, such as using local varieties of olives and adding Congolese spices to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, we incorporate Congolese culinary techniques and traditions to create a salad that reflects the vibrant Congolese cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Zeytin piyazi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (300g) Congolese olives, pitted and sliced 2 cups (300g) Congolese olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped 1 red chili pepper, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the sliced Congolese olives, red onion, tomatoes, green bell pepper, and red chili pepper.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, ground coriander, ground cayenne pepper, and salt.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the olive mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. 5.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Congolese olives — Make sure to choose ripe and flavorful olives for the best taste. If you can't find Congolese olives, you can use any other variety of black olives as a substitute.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili pepper or add a pinch of ground black pepper.
• You can add a squeeze of lime juice for an extra tangy flavor.
• Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience.
• Customize the salad by adding diced cucumber or avocado for additional freshness and texture.
• This salad pairs well with grilled meats or as a topping for sandwiches.

Serving advice

Congolese Olive Salad is best served as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a light meal on its own. It can be enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or as a part of a larger Congolese feast.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Congolese Olive Salad in a vibrant bowl or on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. Garnish with additional cilantro leaves for a pop of color.