In the heart of Morocco, culinary traditions are rich in vibrant flavors that excite the senses and bring people together in celebration of good food and warm hospitality. One dish that perfectly captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine is the flavorful and colorful Moroccan Pepper and Olive Salad. This salad is a delightful mix of sweet bell peppers, robust olives, and fragrant spices. It makes for a refreshing side dish or a light meal on its own.
Moroccan Pepper and Olive Salad
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 large yellow bell peppers
– 1 large orange bell pepper
– 1 cup mixed olives (green and black), pitted
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by roasting the bell peppers. Place them directly over a gas flame or under a broiler, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered on all sides. This process will take about 10-15 minutes. Once roasted, transfer the peppers to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for an additional 10 minutes. This will make peeling the skin off easier.
2. After steaming, peel the skin off the peppers, remove the stem and seeds, and slice them into thin strips. Place the pepper strips in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add the mixed olives and sliced red onion to the bowl with the peppers. Toss gently to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
5. Pour the dressing over the pepper and olive mixture. Toss well to ensure everything is coated with the flavorful dressing.
6. Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will become.
7. Just before serving, garnish the salad with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
This Moroccan Pepper and Olive Salad is a perfect addition to any summer gathering or as a side dish for a cozy dinner at home. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled meats or fish. The combination of sweet peppers, briny olives, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the streets of Marrakech with every bite. Enjoy this salad as a taste of Morocco in your own home!
