Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a vibrant, zesty Mexican salad that will transport you straight to the heart of traditional cuisine! Ensalada Fresca de Chayote is not just a side dish; it's a crisp, light, and incredibly delicious experience that will revolutionize your understanding of fresh vegetables. With its unique blend of textures and bright flavors, this simple yet extraordinary salad promises to become your new summer obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 chayotes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the chayotes thoroughly under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully peel the chayotes, removing the entire outer skin. Ensure you remove any tough or fibrous areas.
- Cut the peeled chayotes into small, uniform dice approximately 1/4 inch in size to ensure even texture and easy eating.
- Rinse the red bell pepper and remove the seeds and white membranes. Dice the pepper into similar-sized pieces as the chayote.
- Gently wash the fresh cilantro leaves and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Chop the cilantro leaves finely, discarding any tough stems to release maximum flavor.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced chayotes and red bell peppers.
- Squeeze fresh lime juice directly over the vegetables, ensuring even distribution.
- Sprinkle salt to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting according to preference.
- Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl and gently toss all ingredients to mix thoroughly.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Before serving, give the salad a final gentle stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Select firm, bright green chayotes without blemishes for the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure all vegetable pieces are cut to similar sizes for a consistent and appealing presentation.
- Lime Juice Trick: Use freshly squeezed lime juice for the most vibrant and authentic flavor profile.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld and enhances the overall taste.
- Optional Enhancements: For extra depth, consider adding diced red onion or a sprinkle of queso fresco to elevate the dish.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so prepare it close to serving time to maintain its crisp texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 40kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
