If you’re looking for a refreshing, nutritious, and absolutely delightful salad that bursts with flavor and crunch, the Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad combines the wholesome goodness of sprouted moong beans with vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and a zesty lemon dressing, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes that never fails to impress. Whether you want a light lunch, a healthy snack, or a side dish to complement your meal, this Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe is simple, quick, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, fresh ingredients, each playing a vital role in the overall flavor and texture harmony. From the protein-packed sprouted moong to the tangy burst of lemon, these components come together beautifully.
- 1 cup sprouted moong beans: Packed with nutrients and a lovely fresh crunch, these are the salad’s star ingredient.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to brighten the dish.
- 1 medium cucumber, diced: Provides cool, crisp refreshment balancing the other robust flavors.
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced: Brings a mild, sharp bite that complements the fresh herbs beautifully.
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Offers a fragrant, herbaceous note that lifts the salad’s profile.
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp): Delivers a zesty tang that ties all ingredients together perfectly.
- ½ tsp chaat masala: An Indian spice blend that adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick to the salad.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
How to Make Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sprouted Moong
Begin by rinsing your sprouted moong beans thoroughly under cold running water. This step ensures any impurities are washed away and keeps your sprouts fresh and crisp. Make sure to drain them completely to avoid excess moisture in your salad.
Step 2: Combine the Fresh Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion. These fresh veggies provide a mix of juicy, crunchy, and slightly pungent textures that complement the sprouts perfectly.
Step 3: Add the Herbs and Spices
Sprinkle the chopped fresh cilantro and chaat masala over your vegetables. The cilantro adds that unmistakably fresh herbal aroma, while chaat masala brings a burst of tangy, slightly spicy flavor that really wakes up this salad.
Step 4: Squeeze in the Lemon Juice
Take the juice of one lemon and pour it over the bowl. This citrus element is critical—it not only brightens the overall flavor but also helps blend all the ingredients harmoniously.
Step 5: Toss and Season
Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. This delicate mixing helps distribute the flavors evenly without crushing the sprouted moong or vegetables. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Your Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe can be enjoyed immediately for a fresh crunch, or you can refrigerate it for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld and intensify slightly. Both ways are delicious!
How to Serve Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of roasted cumin powder or some toasted sesame seeds as garnish can elevate the salad further by introducing subtle smoky or nutty notes. Fresh mint leaves also make a delightful topping for an added pop of freshness.
Side Dishes
This Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with light Indian bread like chapati or naan, or alongside a bowl of warm dal. It also complements grilled meats or paneer, making it a versatile side dish for many meals.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this salad in clear glass bowls or mason jars to showcase its vibrant colors. For a party, consider layering it with yogurt and chutney for a quick, healthy parfait-style snack that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 1-2 days, although it’s best enjoyed on the same day for maximum crunch.
Freezing
Since this salad features fresh sprouts and vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it will damage the texture and freshness. It’s a salad best enjoyed fresh or chilled.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature. Reheating is unnecessary and will compromise the delightful crisp textures and fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use regular moong beans instead of sprouted ones?
While regular moong beans can be used, sprouted moong beans are preferred for this salad because they have a lighter texture, enhanced nutritional benefits, and a fresh crunch that regular cooked beans lack.
How long does it take to sprout moong beans at home?
Sprouting moong beans typically takes about 1 to 2 days. Keep them moist and in a warm place, rinsing them twice a day to encourage healthy sprouting.
Is this Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
Absolutely! This salad is plant-based and contains no animal products, making it perfect for vegan and vegetarian diets alike.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, carrots, or radishes to add more color and crunch. Just keep the balance so the fresh flavors shine through.
What if I don’t have chaat masala? What can I use instead?
If chaat masala isn’t available, a mix of ground cumin, coriander, black salt, and a pinch of chili powder can be used to mimic its tangy and mildly spicy flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe your new go-to whenever you want something light, nutritious, and bursting with vibrant flavors. It’s so easy to put together and wonderfully satisfying in every bite. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
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Sprouted Moong Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and nutritious Sprouted Moong Salad combining crunchy sprouted moong beans with fresh cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and zesty lemon juice. Enhanced with chaat masala and fresh cilantro, this no-cook salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup sprouted moong beans
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
- ½ tsp chaat masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Sprouted Moong Beans: Rinse sprouted moong beans thoroughly under cold water and drain well to remove any dirt or impurities.
- Combine Fresh Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, add diced cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Incorporate the chopped cilantro and sprinkle the chaat masala over the vegetables for a burst of flavor.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lemon evenly over the entire salad mixture to brighten and balance the flavors.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss all ingredients together ensuring the lemon juice and spices are well distributed. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preference.
- Chill and Serve: Serve the salad immediately for fresh taste or refrigerate for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and enhance.
Notes
- The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be chilled for 15 minutes to enhance flavors.
- Add a pinch of roasted cumin powder for extra earthiness if desired.
- For a protein boost, add some diced paneer or boiled eggs.
- To make it spicy, sprinkle some finely chopped green chilies or a dash of red chili powder.
- This salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
