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Kachumbari Salad

Name: Kachumbari Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: {'ingredient': 'Tomatoes', 'amount': '3 cups, diced'}; {'ingredient': 'Cucumber', 'amount': '2 cups, diced'}; {'ingredient': 'Red onion', 'amount': '1 medium, finely chopped'}; {'ingredient': 'Cilantro', 'amount': '1/2 cup, chopped'}; {'ingredient': 'Lemon juice', 'amount': '3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed'}; {'ingredient': 'Salt', 'amount': '1 teaspoon, or to taste'}; {'ingredient': 'Black pepper', 'amount': '1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground'}; {'ingredient': 'Chili pepper', 'amount': '1, finely chopped (adjust to taste)'}

Experience the vibrant essence of East Africa with Kachumbari Salad, a lively medley of fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, zesty red onions, and fragrant cilantro. This colorful salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors, often gracing tables at barbecues and family gatherings across the region. Its origins are rooted in the diverse cultures of East Africa, where each country adds its unique touch, making Kachumbari a beloved staple. Perfect for cooling off on a warm day, this salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, spicy dishes, or can be enjoyed on its own for a refreshing bite.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Tomatoes: 3 cups, diced
Cucumber: 2 cups, diced
Red onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
Cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
Lemon juice: 3 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground
Chili pepper: 1, finely chopped (adjust to taste)

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and finely chopped chili pepper (if using) until the salt is dissolved. This will serve as your zesty dressing.
Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and gently toss everything together until well combined, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the salad to chill, enhancing its refreshing qualities.
Before serving, give the salad a final toss and taste; adjust the seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice as desired.
Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a vibrant accompaniment to grilled meats or spicy dishes.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 • Dish Type: Salad • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Chill Time: 30 minutes • Calories: 120 • Fat: 1g • Carbs: 26g • Protein: 3g • Sodium: 400mg • Sugar: 5g