Vegetable Salad Recipe Indian Style for Fresh Healthy Meals

Indian cuisine is renowned for its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, and nothing captures this essence better than a fresh, crunchy vegetable salad. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a refreshing snack, this Indian vegetable salad recipe combines the goodness of fresh vegetables with traditional Indian spices and tangy dressing to create a dish that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor.

Perfect for hot summer days or as an accompaniment to your meals, this salad is quick to prepare and customizable to your taste. Its balance of textures and the zesty punch from lemon and chaat masala make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Incorporating this salad into your diet is a wonderful way to boost your intake of vitamins, minerals, and fiber without compromising on taste. Plus, it pairs beautifully with many Indian dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.

Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious vegetable salad that’s full of Indian flair and healthy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Indian vegetable salad recipe is much more than just a bowl of chopped veggies. It’s a celebration of fresh produce enhanced by the magic of Indian spices that awaken your taste buds.

The recipe is:

• Quick and easy to make: Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for busy days.
• Highly nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.
• Customizable: You can add or substitute vegetables based on availability or preference.
• Flavor-packed: The tangy lemon juice, chaat masala, and roasted cumin powder add layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.
• Versatile: Works as a side dish with curries, rice, or wraps, or a standalone salad to keep you light and energized.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cucumber, finely chopped
• 1 cup tomato, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup carrot, grated or finely chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 teaspoon chaat masala (available at Indian grocery stores)
• 1/2 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon black salt (optional for extra tang)
• 1 tablespoon roasted peanuts or sev for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Grater (for carrot)
• Serving bowl or plate
• Lemon squeezer (optional)

Instructions

1. Wash and prepare the vegetables. Rinse the cucumber, tomato, carrot, onion, bell pepper, and coriander leaves under cold water. Pat dry with a clean towel.
2. Chop the vegetables. Finely chop the cucumber, tomato, onion, green bell pepper, and coriander leaves. Grate or finely chop the carrot. If you want some heat, finely chop the green chili as well.
3. Combine the vegetables. In a large mixing bowl, add all the chopped and grated vegetables along with the coriander leaves and green chili.
4. Add the spices. Sprinkle the chaat masala, roasted cumin powder, salt, and black salt (if using) over the vegetables.
5. Pour the lemon juice. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mix. Lemon juice not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps keep the vegetables crisp and fresh.
6. Toss everything together. Using a spoon or your hands, gently toss all ingredients until evenly mixed and coated with the spices and lemon juice.
7. Garnish and serve. Sprinkle roasted peanuts or sev on top for an added crunch and enhanced texture. Serve immediately for best freshness.

Tips & Variations

“To keep the salad crisp and fresh, prepare it just before serving. If you need to make it ahead, keep the lemon juice and spices separate and mix them just before serving.”

• Vegetable swaps: Feel free to add or replace with other vegetables like radish, beetroot, or boiled corn for variety and color.
• Make it sweeter: Add pomegranate seeds or chopped apples for a sweet, juicy contrast.
• Spice level: Adjust the green chili quantity or omit it for a milder salad.
• Protein boost: Add boiled chickpeas or sprouts for extra protein and texture.
• Herbs: Try adding mint leaves along with coriander for a refreshing twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Indian vegetable salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As a refreshing side with Indian vegetarian curries or lentil dishes.
• Alongside rice or biryani to add a crunchy, tangy contrast.
• As a healthy snack or light lunch on its own, especially in warm weather.
• Paired with Indian breads like roti or naan for a wholesome meal.
• Use it as a filling for stuffed parathas or wraps for a flavorful twist.

Conclusion

This Indian vegetable salad recipe is a beautiful blend of fresh ingredients and traditional Indian flavors that will brighten up any meal. It’s healthy, quick to prepare, and endlessly adaptable to whatever vegetables you have on hand.

The interplay of crunchy veggies, zesty lemon juice, and aromatic spices creates a refreshing dish that not only tastes amazing but also nourishes your body.

Perfect for those who love simple yet flavorful dishes, this salad fits well into any meal plan and can even inspire you to explore more vegetarian recipes. If you enjoyed this recipe, make sure to check out other delightful dishes like Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend for seasoning ideas, or explore Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals for more dairy-free delights.

For a wholesome, grain-based meal, try Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

Enjoy crafting this crisp, tangy Indian vegetable salad in your kitchen and relish the burst of fresh flavors that only homemade salads can offer!

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