Onion and tomato curtido salsa/salad {Curtido de cebolla y tomate}
User Reviews
4.8
-
Prep Time
10 mins
-
Additional Time
30 mins
-
Servings
4 portions
-
Course
Side Dish, Salad, Appetizer, Condiments
-
Cuisine
South American, Ecuadorian
Onion and tomato curtido salsa/salad {Curtido de cebolla y tomate}
Description
This curtido salad begins by very thinly slicing red onions and rubbing them with salt. The salted onions are rinsed to remove excess salt and reduce pungency, sometimes soaking briefly to further soften strong flavor. The onions are then drained and combined with freshly squeezed lime juice and additional salt, allowing them to turn a pale pink as they marinate.
Fresh tomatoes are added, either sliced or diced, along with finely chopped cilantro and a light cooking oil such as light olive or avocado oil. Mixing these ingredients creates a tangy, mildly spiced salad with crunchy onion texture and juicy tomato pieces.
The salad can be served as a condiment or salsa, pairing well with grilled meats or as part of a meal to add brightness and freshness. Variations may include other raw vegetables like carrots or cucumbers to use the curtido as a complete salad.
Ingredients
- 2 red onion small
- lime juice juice of 3 limes
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil light olive oil or avocado oil, generic cooking oil
- 3 tomato
- 1 tablespoon cilantro finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt + more to adjust taste
Instructions
- Slice the red onions very thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Sprinkle the sliced onions with 1 tablespoon salt and rub the salt into the onions.
- Cover the onions with cold water and rinse well until the salt is removed. If the onions are very strong then you can let them rest in the water for 5-10 minutes.
- Drain the onions and place them in a bowl.
- Add the lime juice and a sprinkle of salt, let rest until the onions start to turn pinkish, about 5-10 minutes.
- The tomatoes can be sliced thinly or diced. Add the tomatoes to the onion curtido mix.
- Add the oil and the chopped cilantro. Mix well, taste and add additional salt to taste if needed.
Notes
- To soften the onion flavor, salt and rinse thoroughly, or soak in water for 5-10 minutes if desired.
- Variations of curtido can include vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes for additional texture and color.
- Serve over chopped lettuce or salad greens with avocado slices to transform the curtido into a full salad.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.8
You'll Also Love
