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ChineseAuthentic Cuisine

Chinese Herb Salad

Serves 4 to 6 Salad vegetarian, Salads

Chinese Herb Salad

In the realm of Chinese home cooking, the humble Chinese Herb Salad is a staple, embodying the essence of everyday family meals. It's not a dish reserved for grand occasions but rather a cherished component of the daily table, where simplicity meets nourishment. The salad is prepared with an intuitive hand, where the salt is sprinkled to taste and olive oil flows freely, reflecting the familial wisdom passed down through generations.

The salad's allure lies in its fresh, vibrant flavors and the textural contrast of mixed greens and fragrant herbs. The tangy brightness of lemon juice enlivens the palate, while the rich olive oil provides a silky finish. This dish, unpretentious yet deeply satisfying, invites diners to savor the harmonious blend of crisp textures and refreshing tastes that define Chinese home-style dining.

Ingredients

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

Method

  1. Begin by thoroughly washing 150 g mixed greens under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a salad spinner or gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to ensure they are completely dry, which will help the dressing adhere better.
  2. Select a variety of fresh herbs such as cilantro, mint, and basil, and wash them as you did the greens. Pat them dry and then coarsely chop them, aiming for about a handful of each to balance the flavors in the salad.
  3. In a small bowl, combine 60 ml of olive oil with the juice of one lemon. Whisk together until the mixture is emulsified, which means it should appear slightly thickened and uniform in color. Add fine sea salt to taste, starting with a small pinch and adjusting as needed.
  4. Place the mixed greens and chopped herbs in a large salad bowl. Pour the dressing over the greens and herbs, ensuring even distribution. Use your hands or salad tongs to toss the salad gently, lifting from the bottom to coat all leaves without bruising them.
  5. Taste a leaf to check the seasoning and adjust with more salt or lemon juice if necessary. The greens should be lightly coated with the dressing, glistening without being soggy.
  6. Serve the Chinese Herb Salad immediately on a large platter or individual plates. Accompany with slices of crusty bread for a complete and refreshing meal, perfect for sharing at the table.
Cover of Authentic Chinese Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Chinese Cuisine

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

Available soon on Amazon…

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