Delicious Salad with Pumpkin Chips

This vibrant and tasty salad combines the wonderful flavors of juicy mandarin slices, sweet pineapple chunks, and aromatic cheese with the fresh bitterness of arugula. Complemented by the unexpected delight of crispy pumpkin chips, this salad offers a myriad of textures and tastes in every bite. The delicate crunch and rich flavor of the Džiugas cheese meld harmoniously with the vibrant fruits and greens. What sets this salad apart is the unique addition of pumpkin chips, which lend both visual appeal and a satisfying bite. These chips add an extra layer of flavor, transforming a simple salad into a gourmet experience. The dish is further elevated by cooking couscous in pineapple juice, infusing it with a subtle sweetness that ties everything together. This salad is perfect for those looking for something light yet filling, offering a delightful citrusy touch that refreshes the palate. The balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors makes it versatile enough for any occasion.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• Cooked couscous
• Handful of baby arugula leaves
• 1 mandarin
• 1 tbsp pineapple chunks
• Generous handful of grated Džiugas cheese
• Pumpkin

Preparation Time

Total Time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mandarin: Begin by peeling the mandarin and dividing it into segments. Cut each segment in half, ensuring that each piece is bite-sized.
2. Mix the Salad Base: In a large bowl, combine the grated Džiugas cheese with the cooked couscous and arugula leaves. To infuse extra flavor into the couscous, cook it using pineapple juice as a substitute for water.
3. Add Fruits: Incorporate the mandarin pieces and pineapple chunks into the bowl. Gently mix to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
4. Prepare the Pumpkin Chips: Use a peeler to slice the pumpkin into thin sheets. These should be thin enough to become crispy when fried.
5. Heat the Oil: In a pan, heat an adequate amount of oil to 170°C (340°F). You need enough oil to submerge the pumpkin slices.
6. Fry the Pumpkin Slices: Carefully place the pumpkin slices into the hot oil one by one. They will quickly rise to the surface and brown from the bottom.
7. Turn and Brown: Flip each slice to brown the other side. Once browned, remove them from the oil.
8. Drain the Chips: Place the fried chips on a paper towel to drain excess oil. This keeps them crispy and light.
9. Assemble the Salad: Place the mixed salad onto a serving plate. Arrange the pumpkin chips atop the salad for a decorative and flavorful touch.
10. Enjoy the Contrast: The juxtaposition of the creamy cheese, fruity sweetness, and crisp chips create a mouthwatering salad experience.

Tips

• Substituting Arugula: If you're not fond of arugula, you can swap it out for spinach or a mixed salad greens blend.
• Crispier Chips: Ensure the pumpkin slices are thin to achieve maximum crispiness.
• Enhancing Flavor: Consider sprinkling a pinch of salt or paprika over the pumpkin chips for a little extra zest.

Variations

• Vegan Option: Replace the Džiugas cheese with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili flakes to the salad for added heat and depth.
• Seasonal Fruits: Substitute mandarin with orange or grapefruit for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh baguette or crusty bread.
• Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to enhance the flavors.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like basil or mint for added aroma.

Best Places

1. The Greenhouse Café - A cozy spot known for its fresh salads and natural ingredient dishes. Location: 22 Floral Street, London, UK.
2. Salad Dream - Famous for its innovative salad combos and organic ingredients. Location: 120 Market Street, San Francisco, USA.
3. Nature's Table - Offers a wide variety of salads using locally-sourced produce. Location: 50 Rue de Seine, Paris, France.
4. Green Delight Bistro - Loved for its light, healthy meals and creative menu. Location: 19 Alexanderplatz, Berlin, Germany.
5. Leaf & Loaf Kitchen - Combines freshly baked bread with versatile salad options. Location: 8 Queen's Road Central, Hong Kong.
6. Veggie Creations - Renowned for transforming traditional salads into gourmet meals. Location: Avenida Paulista, 1578, São Paulo, Brazil.
7. Urban Orchard Café - Known for its lush green interior and eco-friendly ethos. Location: 33 Collins Street, Melbourne, Australia.
8. Crunch Time Lounge - Offers a wide variety of crispy salads and unique toppings. Location: Váci utca 9, Budapest, Hungary.
9. Harvest Feast - Provides a farm-to-table experience with a focus on seasonal salads. Location: 27 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
10. Sunshine Bistro - Beloved for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious, fresh salads. Location: 15 Orchard Road, Singapore.