Hello, everyone! Today, you will learn how to create a unique and refreshing salad that features an intriguing Aegean herb called cibes, along with fresh almonds and mustard. Let’s take a journey through this delightful recipe, which is perfect for a light meal or a flavorful side dish.
What is Cibes?
Cibes, a traditional Aegean herb, is a lesser-known but versatile vegetable that’s commonly found in Turkish markets. It’s often labeled as an “Aegean herb” and can also be sold as cauliflower or broccoli sprouts. This leafy green has a mild flavor and soft texture, making it perfect for salads, sautés, and more. Today, we're pairing it with the nutty taste of fresh almonds and the tangy kick of mustard, all brought together with our Olizzi Premium Organic Olive Oil.
Ingredients:
- Cibes (or cauliflower/broccoli sprouts)
- Salt
- Fresh almonds (called çağla badem in Turkish)
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- Lemon zest
- Sea salt
- Grated garlic
- Olizzi Premium Organic Olive Oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Cibes
Start by boiling water in a large pot and adding plenty of salt, just like you would for pasta. Drop your trimmed cibes into the boiling water. Once it comes to a boil again, cover the pot and let the cibes cook until the roots are tender.
- Make the Mustard Dressing
While the cibes are cooking, prepare the dressing. In a bowl, mix together one tablespoon of mustard, some freshly grated lemon zest, a pinch of sea salt, and grated garlic. Once the cibes are done, drain them well but skip the cold water bath—mixing the hot cibes with the dressing helps them absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Toss It All Together
While the cibes are still hot, toss them with the mustard dressing and a generous amount of Olizzi Premium Organic Olive Oil. This ensures that the dressing coats every leaf and stem, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. You can sprinkle in some chopped fresh parsley for added freshness if you like.
- Add Fresh Almonds
Finish your salad by adding fresh almonds (çağla badem), which give a lovely crunch that contrasts with the softness of the cibes. The flavor of fresh almonds is unique, with a mild, milky taste that enhances the overall dish.
- Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Cibes Salad on a white or clear plate to let the colors shine. It’s perfect on its own or as a side to your favorite dishes. If you’re feeling adventurous, top the salad with a sunny-side-up egg—Ezgi’s tip for adding even more flavor!
The Art of Storing Olive Oil
As you enjoy this delicious salad, it’s worth noting that the quality of your olive oil plays a significant role in the final flavor. At Olizzi, we take extra care to ensure that our olive oil remains fresh and full of flavor, but proper storage at home is just as important. Remember to keep your olive oil away from heat, light, oxygen, and time. These are the four biggest enemies of olive oil, and taking simple steps—like storing it in a cool, dark place and using it within a few months of opening—can make all the difference.
Conclusion
Cibes Salad with fresh almonds and mustard is a delightful way to showcase the unique flavors of traditional Aegean herbs. The combination of tangy mustard, crunchy almonds, and the smooth richness of Olizzi Premium Organic Olive Oil creates a dish that’s not only nutritious but also bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors.
I hope you enjoy making this salad. Don’t forget to experiment with your presentation and feel free to let your creativity shine!
Bon appétit!