Salade de Palmiste (Palm Heart Salad)
A refreshing and elegant salad made from the tender heart of palm, often dressed with a zesty lemon and vinegar vinaigrette. It's a popular appetizer in Mauritian cuisine, showcasing the delicate flavor of palm hearts.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 medium Fresh palm hearts(tender inner part, sliced thinly)
- 2 medium Lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp White vinegar
- 4 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/2 cup Water(for soaking)
- 1/2 cup Milk(for soaking)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the palm hearts: Carefully remove the outer, less tender parts of the palm hearts, reserving them for other uses if desired. Slice the tender inner core crosswise into thin rounds.
- 2
Prevent browning: Immediately immerse the sliced palm hearts in a mixture of half water and half milk. This will help prevent them from oxidizing and turning brown.
- 3
Make the vinaigrette: In a large serving bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and white vinegar.
- 4
Add the oil to the vinaigrette and whisk until emulsified.
- 5
Drain and dry the palm hearts: Remove the required amount of palm heart slices from the soaking liquid. Pat them dry thoroughly with kitchen paper.
- 6
Assemble the salad: Add the dried palm heart slices to the bowl with the vinaigrette. Toss gently to coat.
- 7
Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while the palm heart slices are still crisp.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using canned palm hearts is an option, but fresh ones offer a superior texture and flavor.
- ✓Avoid adding sliced onions to this salad, as they can overpower the delicate flavor of the palm heart.
- ✓Serve as an appetizer or a light side dish.
🔄 Variations
- Add a few segments of orange or grapefruit for a citrusy twist.
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can add a nutty crunch.