Indian Spinach Salad Recipe

When life gives me spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a hint of spice, I whip up this vibrant Indian Spinach Salad that takes my tastebuds on a whirlwind flavor adventure. 🌿🍅🥗

I enjoy making colorful dishes like my Indian Spinach Salad, which marries the rich, earthy flavor of fresh spinach with the sweet taste of cherry tomatoes and the satisfying crunch of roasted peanuts. The lemon juice is the zesty finishing touch, but it’s the roasted cumin that really pulls everything together and makes the salad come alive.

Cumin and coconut are pretty much a culinary duo in South Asian households, and their combination here is nothing short of magical.

Indian Spinach Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Fresh Spinach Leaves: Rich in iron and vitamins, provides a nutritious base.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Adds sweetness and a boost of vitamin C.
• Red Onion: Offers a subtle crunch and antioxidant properties.
• Roasted Peanuts: Adds protein and a satisfying crunch.
• Grated Fresh Coconut: Provides healthy fats and a hint of sweetness.
• Fresh Lemon Juice: Enhances flavor with tangy brightness.
• Roasted Cumin Seeds: Imbues a warm, earthy aroma.

Indian Spinach Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 3 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and dried
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
• 1/4 cup grated fresh coconut
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon roasted cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon chaat masala
• Salt to taste
• 1 small green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander leaves

How to Make this Indian Spinach Salad Recipe

1. In a big mixing bowl, mix together fresh spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and very thinly sliced red onion.

2. Include roasted peanuts and grated fresh coconut in the bowl.

3. In a small bowl, combine fresh lemon juice, olive oil, roasted cumin seeds, and chaat masala. Whisk these ingredients together to create the dressing.

4. Put the ingredients for the salad in the big bowl. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients in the large bowl.

5. Ensure you add salt to taste, mixing it evenly throughout the salad.

6. You can add finely chopped green chilies if you want to increase the heat.

7. Gently toss the dressing with all the ingredients to ensure it coats everything evenly.

8. Dust the salad with freshly chopped coriander.

9. Once more, give the salad a gentle toss to ensure the coriander leaves are distributed evenly throughout.

10. Serve straightaway in single-serving bowls or plates, and take pleasure in the lively and fresh tastes of the Indian Spinach Salad.

Indian Spinach Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Small mixing bowl
3. Whisk
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Grater
7. Measuring spoons
8. Measuring cups
9. Salad tongs or large spoon for tossing
10. Serving bowls or plates

FAQ

• What can I use as a substitute for fresh coconut?Unsweetened desiccated coconut can replace fresh coconut, though it is less moist. Consider slightly hydrating it with a few drops of water.
• Is there an alternative to peanuts for allergy reasons?Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, when roasted, may serve as fine substitutes for peanuts, for their delectability and crunch.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?Fresh is best for this salad, but you can certainly prepare it in advance, albeit in parts. Chop the ingredients and store them separately until you’re ready to combine and dress the salad just before serving. That way, the salad maintains the maximum freshness, as spinach salads are likely to do.
• Is it necessary to use chaat masala?Although chaat masala gives a unique sharp flavor, you can leave it out or replace it with a mix of cumin powder and a bit of black salt.
• How spicy will this salad be with the green chili?The green chili will contribute a mild heat. If a more subdued flavor is desired, one can either omit the chili or deseed it—removing the seeds—and then use the chili, which will significantly reduce its heat level.
• Can the cumin seeds be ground?You can lightly grind the roasted cumin seeds if you want a finer texture, although whole seeds give the salad a nice crunch and burst of flavor.
• How do I store leftovers?Put any remaining portions in a container that seals well and keep it in the refrigerator. Eat the contents within 24 hours for peak deliciousness. It is a safe bet that they will not have turned yet. But if you want to be completely certain, you could always use the olfactory test.

Indian Spinach Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Kale or arugula can be substituted for fresh spinach leaves, offering a completely different flavor and texture.
You can substitute diced ordinary tomatoes or grape tomatoes for cherry tomatoes.
You can substitute roasted almonds or cashews for the roasted peanuts to achieve a different nutty flavor.
You can substitute unsweetened desiccated coconut for fresh coconut, but the texture will differ a little.
You can replace chaat masala with a combination of garam masala and a sprinkle of dried mango powder (amchur) to get the same sort of tangy taste.

Pro Tips

1. Chill Ingredients: Before mixing the salad, chill the spinach, tomatoes, and onion in the refrigerator for a refreshing, crisp texture when served.