Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Indian Onion Salad is a vibrant, quick-to-make accompaniment that adds a burst of flavor to any Indian meal. The combination of crunchy onions, zesty lemon, and aromatic spices like chaat masala creates a delightful contrast to heavier dishes. Plus, it’s vegan, low-calorie, and packed with fresh ingredients that bring both tang and heat to your plate.
Ingredients
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon chaat masala
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
Optional: 1 green chili, finely chopped
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness, then drain the water.
- Mix the salad: Transfer the soaked onion slices to a mixing bowl. Add lemon juice, red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt.
- Add freshness: Stir in the chopped cilantro and optional green chili if desired.
- Serve: Toss everything well to ensure the onions are evenly coated with the spices and serve immediately as a side to your favorite Indian dishes like kebabs, biryani, or curry.
Servings and timing
- Yield: 2 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add a few slices of cucumber or tomato to the salad for extra freshness.
- For a more traditional flavor, use black salt instead of regular salt.
- Mix in a pinch of roasted cumin powder for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you like it spicier, use more green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Storage/reheating
This salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The onions may lose some of their crispness over time, but the flavor will still be good.
FAQs
Can I use yellow onions instead of red onions?
Red onions are recommended for their milder flavor and vibrant color, but yellow onions can be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
While the salad is best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble it just before serving to keep the onions crisp.
Can I make this salad spicier?
Yes! Simply increase the amount of green chilies or add a bit more red chili powder to suit your spice tolerance.
How do I reduce the onion’s sharpness without soaking?
If you prefer not to soak the onions, you can rub a pinch of salt over the slices and let them sit for a few minutes before rinsing and draining.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add yogurt to this salad?
While it’s not traditional, you can add a spoonful of plain yogurt to make the salad creamier if desired.
What other herbs can I use instead of cilantro?
Mint is another common herb that pairs well with the flavors in this salad and would make a great substitute for cilantro.
How do I make this salad milder for kids?
You can reduce or omit the chili powder and green chilies to make the salad milder, while still keeping the tangy and refreshing flavor.
Can I store this salad for longer?
The salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to a day. The onions will lose some crunch the longer it sits.
Is this salad suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Indian Onion Salad is naturally vegan, making it a great option for plant-based meals.
Conclusion
Indian Onion Salad is a quick, refreshing side dish that adds flavor, texture, and color to any Indian meal. The combination of tangy lemon, zesty spices, and fresh cilantro makes this salad a perfect contrast to rich, hearty curries or tandoori dishes. Whether you’re serving it with a festive meal or enjoying it as a light snack, it’s sure to delight with its bold, vibrant flavors.
Indian Onion Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This simple and spicy Indian Onion Salad is made with thinly sliced red onions, tangy lemon juice, and a blend of bold spices. It’s a perfect side dish to balance rich, savory flavors with its refreshing crunch.
Ingredients
1 large red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon red chili powder
1/4 teaspoon chaat masala
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
Optional: 1 green chili, finely chopped
Instructions
- Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to reduce their sharpness, then drain the water.
- Transfer the soaked onion slices to a mixing bowl. Add lemon juice, red chili powder, chaat masala, and salt.
- Stir in the chopped cilantro and optional green chili if desired.
- Toss everything well to ensure the onions are evenly coated with the spices and serve immediately as a side to your favorite Indian dishes like kebabs, biryani, or curry.
Notes
For extra freshness, add slices of cucumber or tomato to the salad.
For a more traditional flavor, use black salt instead of regular salt.
Mix in a pinch of roasted cumin powder for an extra layer of flavor.
Adjust the spiciness by increasing the green chilies or adding cayenne pepper.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 1 day, but the onions may lose some of their crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 salad
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
