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Caribbean Herb Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Caribbean Herb Salad

Caribbean Herb Salad is a staple on home tables across the islands, crafted with a relaxed hand and an eye toward abundance. This version captures the essence of family gatherings, where dishes are created not from a recipe book but from the heart, with salt measured by feel and olive oil poured without hesitation. It's a dish that speaks to the everyday rhythm of Caribbean life, where food is meant to be shared and enjoyed together.

Expect a vibrant medley of greens and herbs kissed by the brightness of fresh lemon juice and enriched with a generous drizzle of olive oil. The salad balances the peppery and mild notes of its greens, brought to life by the subtle sparkle of sea salt. It’s a refreshing, uncomplicated dish that lets the natural flavors of the ingredients shine, inviting all to savor the moment.

Ingredients

  • 150 gmixed greens
  • 60 mlolive oil
  • lemonjuiced
  • herbs — chopped
  • to tastefine sea salt

Method

  1. Start by washing the 150 g of mixed greens thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off excess water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or use a salad spinner to ensure they are completely dry. This prevents the salad from becoming soggy once dressed.
  2. Select a variety of fresh herbs such as cilantro, parsley, or mint, and wash them well. Roughly chop the herbs to release their aromas, but avoid mincing them too finely as you want the herbs to retain their texture and visual appeal in the salad.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Whisk them together until the mixture is emulsified, creating a smooth and slightly thickened dressing. Taste the dressing and add fine sea salt to your preference, keeping in mind that the salt should enhance the flavors without overpowering them.
  4. Place the dried mixed greens in a large salad bowl. Drizzle the prepared dressing evenly over the greens, ensuring that the oil and lemon juice coat the leaves lightly. This helps to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the salad.
  5. Add the chopped herbs to the bowl with the dressed greens. Using clean hands or salad tongs, gently toss the salad. The goal is to mix the ingredients without bruising the greens or herbs, preserving their fresh appearance and texture.
  6. Once the salad is well combined and the greens are glistening with the dressing, taste a leaf to check for seasoning. Adjust with a pinch more salt if needed, ensuring the flavors are balanced and vibrant.
  7. Serve the Caribbean Herb Salad immediately on a large platter or individual plates. Accompany it with slices of fresh bread, allowing diners to enjoy the salad's bright flavors alongside the comforting texture of the bread.
Cover of Authentic Caribbean Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Caribbean Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Caribbean Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Caribbean volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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