| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 120 | 5g | 1g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 4g | 3g | 0.3g |
Every family has a signature dish that weaves a tapestry of heartwarming memories, and for me, it’s always been versatile, wholesome Italian-American dishes. Yet sometimes, it’s fun to take a leap into the unknown, crafting unique experiences that still tap into these familiar comforting vibes. In that spirit, today, I want to introduce you to something different yet refreshingly authentic – the Spine Gourd and Tomato Salad.
Rediscovering the Glory of Vegetables
My Italian roots made me familiar with rich, meaty pastas and hearty meals, but it also instilled in me a deep respect for vegetables. Tomatoes form the cornerstone of numerous Italian dishes, and my grandparents also adored fresh herbs like parsley and mint, which brought a bright dash of flavor to our meals. This Spine Gourd and Tomato Salad reminds me of those humble garden ingredients, transported from the heart of Italy and given an exciting twist.
Gourmet Experience with Health Benefits
Moving on from tradition, I was delighted to discover the spine gourd – a vegetable known for its health benefits. Consisting of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, it’s believed to aid digestion and boost the immune system, as stated by Health Benefits Times. Paired with the lycopene-rich tomatoes, it creates a flavorful salad that not only fills you up but also nourishes.
Meanwhile, the fresh parsley and mint play a dual role – serving as garnish and amplifying the overall health quotient. Parsley is a reputed anti-inflammatory agent, while mint aids in digestion, according to WebMD and Medical News Today.
Perfect Companion to Your Main Course
While the Spine Gourd and Tomato Salad is a delicious solo star, it can also pair beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Think of it alongside a perfectly roasted chicken, or as an accompaniment to a delicate fillet of grill-kissed salmon. Its light, fresh taste will balance out the richness of the protein, providing a wonderful contrast.
Despite hailing from New Jersey and my deeply entrenched Italian-American roots, my culinary ventures have taught me that every recipe, irrespective of its origin, has a tale to tell. So, here’s to embracing the globally inspired, health-conscious, and undeniably flavorful experience that this Spine Gourd and Tomato Salad has to offer.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups spine gourd, sliced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
Method
Step One
Begin the process by precooking the sliced spine gourd. To do this, you will want to lightly steam the spine gourd until it becomes tender. This should take approximately 5-10 minutes. After this, allow the gourd to cool off.
Step Two
In a large serving bowl, combine the cooled spine gourd, diced ripe tomatoes and finely chopped onion. Give these ingredients a good stir to ensure even distribution.
Step Three
It’s time to prepare the dressing. In a separate bowl, add the minced garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. Season this mixture with salt to taste and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth dressing.
Step Four
Pour the prepared dressing over the spine gourd, tomato, and onion mixture. Toss the salad gently to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients entirely.
Step Five
Finally, add the freshly chopped parsley and finely chopped mint leaves to the salad. Toss again lightly for a final mix. The Spine Gourd and Tomato Salad is now ready to serve. Enjoy this nutritious and refreshing salad as a side dish or a light meal.
