Mechouia Salad

Mechouia Salad – vibrant Tunisian grilled vegetable salad
Tunisia
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Mechouia Salad is a celebrated Tunisian dish made from roasted vegetables, primarily tomatoes and peppers. This vibrant salad holds cultural significance as a staple in Tunisian cuisine, often enjoyed during gatherings or as a refreshing side in warm weather. It embodies the flavors of the Mediterranean, showcasing the country's love for fresh, grilled ingredients.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~150 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 4 large tomatoes
  • 2 green bell peppers
  • 2 red bell peppers
  • 1 large onion
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, unpeeled
  • 1-2 hot chili peppers (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced (for garnish)
  • Tuna, drained and flaked (for garnish)
  • Capers (for garnish)
  • Olives (for garnish)
  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your grill.

Place the tomatoes, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, onion, garlic cloves, and hot chili peppers (if using) on a baking sheet or grill.

Roast or grill the vegetables until they are charred and tender, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 20-30 minutes.

Cool and Peel

Once the vegetables are roasted, remove them from the oven or grill and let them cool.

Peel the skins off the tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Remove the seeds from the bell peppers and chili peppers.

Chop the Vegetables

Finely chop the peeled tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic. If using chili peppers, finely chop them as well.

Mix the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables.

Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil and lemon juice over the vegetables.

Season with salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Mix well to combine.

Serve

Transfer the mechouia salad to a serving dish.

Garnish with sliced hard-boiled eggs, flaked tuna, capers, olives, and chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mechouia Salad?

Mechouia Salad is a Tunisian dish consisting of roasted vegetables, typically served cold. It's known for its smoky flavor and vibrant colors.

Where does Mechouia Salad come from?

Mechouia Salad hails from Tunisia, where it's a beloved part of the local cuisine, often featured in family meals and celebrations.

What are the main ingredients in Mechouia Salad?

The key ingredients include tomatoes, green and red bell peppers, onion, garlic, and optional hot chili peppers.

How long does Mechouia Salad take to make?

Mechouia Salad takes approximately 40-60 minutes to prepare.

What do you serve with Mechouia Salad?

Mechouia Salad pairs well with grilled meats, crusty bread, or as part of a mezze platter.