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Nopal with tomatoes, onions, cilantro and lime juice for fresh, healthy and delicious salad
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4.15 from 7 votes

Nopales Salad

Nopales Salad made with prickly pear cactus, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, chili peppers, and lime juice, is a nutrient-packed salad you'll love. It's fresh, healthy and delicious!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Calories: 89kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 Nopales pads
  • 2 cloves garlic, peeled and pounded
  • salt
  • 2 Roma Tomatoes, seeded and diced
  • 1 small onion, seeded and diced
  • 1 jalapeno pepper, minced
  • 1/2 bunch cilantro, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  • Using a small paring knife, clean the cactus paddles by scraping thorns or spines from both sides. 
  • Trim off the edges and any blemished or discolored areas. Wash well with cold water. 
  • Cut the paddle lengthwise into half-inch thick strips and then cut crosswise into 1 to 1 1/2-inch lengths.
  • In a pot over medium heat, combine garlic, about a teaspoon of salt, and enough water to cover nopales. Bring to a boil.
  •  Add nopales and cook, skimming scum that floats on top, for about 8 to 10 minutes or until nopales have changed color and are tender yet crisp. 
  • Remove from heat and rinse well under very cold water to rid of the gelatinous sap. Drain well. 
  • In a bowl, combine cooked nopales, tomatoes, onions, jalapeno, cilantro, and oregano. 
  • Add lime juice and olive oil. Season with salt to taste. Toss to combine and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
  • Serve topped with queso fresco, if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 89kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 3g | Sodium: 51mg | Potassium: 696mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1400IU | Vitamin C: 34.5mg | Calcium: 388mg | Iron: 1.6mg