Salads have come a long way from being considered simply “diet foods” to vibrant, flavour-packed dishes that satisfy both your stomach and your taste buds. Whether you are watching your weight or just craving a lighter, more refreshing alternative to your regular meals, salads are a great option. However, when you search for salad recipes online, the exquisite array of ingredients can make you feel overwhelmed and hopeless. What is healthy? What will suit your palate? What if we told you that you can make simple ingredient swaps in your desi salads to make them just as delicious and nutritious? Well, it is possible! How? Read on to discover some popular ingredient swaps for your desi salads.
Here are 5 ingredient alternatives for your desi salads:
1. Swap regular lettuce with spinach or methi.
Lettuce? Nope! Spinach and methi should be the base of your salad. These greens are packed with more nutrients and intense flavours. Spinach adds a subtle sweetness, while methi, which has a slightly bitter taste, adds an earthy flavour that pairs perfectly with Indian spices. These greens are also packed with more iron and vitamins, so your salad will go from bland to gorgeous. Apart from texture and flavour, these greens also add a desi touch to your healthy meal.
2. Forget croutons and opt for a roasted makhana with masala
Yes, all those restaurant-made salads have croutons in them that add a delicious crunch. But they can be a bit too basic, right? Instead, add a delicious crunch to your homemade salads by swapping them for masala-roasted makhana (fox nuts). Not only are they crunchy and light, but they're also packed with protein and won't leave you feeling guilty. Just sprinkle some chaat masala on top and you'll get a burst of flavour in every bite. Plus, makhana adds that perfect chatpata crunch without the guilt of extra carbs from croutons.
3. Say no to mayonnaise and yes to cottage cheese
We all love a creamy salad dressing, but mayonnaise can be heavy. Instead, choose hung curd that provides the same texture and creaminess. It's lighter, packed with probiotics, and still provides that rich texture we crave in salads. Plus, it pairs beautifully with desi flavors like roasted jeera or mustard oil. The tangy kick of hung curd, combined with the raw flavor of vegetables, makes for a delicious combination.
4. Replace cheese with paneer or tofu
Cheese may be associated with indulgence, but paneer and tofu are the real stars when it comes to adding protein to your salad. Grilled or sautéed paneer provides a satisfying bite, while tofu soaks up the flavors of the dressing and spices. Plus, both taste amazing with ingredients like chaat masala, garam masala, lemon juice, and mustard oil. So, say goodbye to cheese and hello to the power of paneer!
5. Swap bottled dressing for lemon and olive oil
Tired of using bottled dressings full of preservatives? Not anymore! Use a combination of fresh lemon and olive oil that works like magic. Add a pinch of black salt, toasted cumin powder, or even chaat masala for an extra kick of acidity. This simple dressing is healthier and much more vibrant than store-bought options. Plus, it's quick, easy, and keeps your salad light and fresh—just the way you like it!