Zesty Nopales Salad

Ingredients

Nopales (cactus pads)

2 cups, diced

Tomatoes

1 cup, diced

Onion

1/2 cup, diced (red or white)

Cilantro

1/4 cup, chopped

Olive oil

3 tablespoons

Lime

1, juiced

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon

Instructions

1. Begin by boiling the diced nopales in a pot of salted water for about 10 minutes, or until they become tender. This process helps remove their natural slimy texture.
2. Once tender, drain the nopales and rinse them under cold water to further eliminate any sliminess. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled nopales, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and cilantro. Mix gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified to create your zesty vinaigrette.
5. Pour the vinaigrette over the nopales mixture, then toss gently to ensure everything is well coated.
6. Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with extra cilantro if desired.