Moroccan salad

Here’s a classic recipe for Salade Marocaine (Moroccan salad), a refreshing and flavorful dish typically made with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing. This salad is light, colorful, and perfect as a side dish for Moroccan meals.

Ingredients:

• 2 large tomatoes (diced)
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• 1 green bell pepper (diced)
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 small red onion (finely chopped)
• 1 small bunch of fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 small bunch of fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, green and red bell peppers, and finely chop the onion. Make sure all vegetables are cut into small, bite-sized pieces for a balanced salad.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
   • In a large salad bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, onion, parsley, and cilantro. Toss everything together gently.
3. Make the Dressing:
   • In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, cumin, paprika (if using), and black pepper. Whisk until well combined.
4. Dress the Salad:
   • Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the vegetables evenly.
5. Chill and Serve:
   • For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.
6. Optional Garnishes:
   • You can add olives, slices of hard-boiled egg, or even small chunks of feta cheese for extra texture and flavor.

Serving:

Serve Salade Marocaine chilled as a refreshing side dish to accompany tagines, grilled meats, or other Moroccan dishes.

Enjoy your fresh and zesty Salade Marocaine!