Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe

Who knew that bitter melons could be the star of a salad that’s both daring and delish? Let me take you on a flavor journey that transforms this prickly veggie into your new foodie obsession. 🍽️✨

Bitter melon is surprisingly versatile. In this refreshing salad, its distinct flavor is transformed into something delicious.

Combined with the tang of lemon and Dijon mustard and complemented by the sweetness of honey, this provides an invigorating, easy-to-eat experience. And the crisp red onion and cherry tomatoes are delightful in this dish.

Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe Ingredients

• Bitter Melons: Packed with antioxidants, they add a unique bitter taste.
• Red Onion: Provides a mild sweetness and crisp texture.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats and adds a smooth finish.
• Dijon Mustard: Contributes a tangy, sharp flavor to the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: A burst of freshness with a zesty citrus note.

Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 2 medium-sized bitter melons
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt (for salting the bitter melon)
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

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How to Make this Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe

1.
1. Cut the bitter melons in half lengthwise.

2. Scoop out the seeds and pith.

3. Slice them into thin half-moons.

2. Put the sliced bitter melon in a bowl, and sprinkle it with 1 tablespoon of salt. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes to draw out the bitterness.

3. Wash the bitter melons under cold running water to rid them of the salt, and then dry them with paper towels.

4. In a big bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.

5. Place the bitter melon slices in the dressing and toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

6. Include the thinly sliced red onion and halved cherry tomatoes in the bowl with the bitter melons.

7. Combine the ingredients of the salad with a light touch until all components are well married and dressed.

8. Sample the salad and if necessary, rectify the seasoning. If the salad requires further flavor calibration, consider adding more lemon juice, olive oil, or honey, taking care to balance the flavors.

9. Move the salad to a serving dish and scatter 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro over the top.

10. Enjoy the salad right away or let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to come together. Serve immediately.

Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Cutting board
2. Sharp knife
3. Spoon (for scooping seeds)
4. Bowl (for salting bitter melon)
5. Colander (for washing bitter melon)
6. Paper towels
7. Large mixing bowl
8. Whisk
9. Serving dish

FAQ

• Can I reduce the bitterness of the bitter melon?Indeed, one can reduce the bitterness of a bitter melon by salting it and letting it sit for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off.
• Is there a substitute for Dijon mustard in the dressing? You can use yellow mustard or whole grain mustard as an alternative, but the flavor will slightly vary.
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?It’s ideal to make the dressing in advance and mix it with the salad right before serving to keep it as fresh as possible.
• Is there an alternative to extra virgin olive oil?Absolutely, it is permissible to utilize other neutral oils such as grapeseed or avocado oil.
• What can I use instead of honey for the dressing?Good substitutes are maple syrup or agave nectar.
• How should I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, although the texture may change slightly.
• Can I add proteins to the salad? Absolutely, grilled chicken or tofu can be great additions to make the salad more filling.

Bittermelon Salad In Lemon Mustard Dressing Recipe Substitutions and Variations

You can use cucumber to replace bitter melon if you want a milder taste.
Should you lack a red onion, substitute it with shallots or a yellow onion.
You can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil in place of extra virgin olive oil.
Replace Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard or yellow mustard for slightly different flavors.
When fresh cilantro is unavailable, parsley can be used to garnish dishes that would otherwise be garnished with cilantro.

Pro Tips

1. Dealing with Bitterness: After salting the bitter melon, consider blanching it briefly in boiling water for 1-2 minutes before rinsing with cold water. This can further reduce bitterness while retaining some of the melon’s crispiness.