Lacha Onion Salad
Crisp, tangy rings of onion tossed in a simple dressing of lemon juice, chaat masala, and fresh herbs. This classic Punjabi side dish adds a refreshing crunch and zesty flavor to any rich main course.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Peel the onions and slice them as thinly as possible into rings.
- b.Use your fingers to gently separate the slices into individual rings.
TIPA mandoline slicer works best for getting consistent, paper-thin rings. - 2
Step 2
- 3
Step 3
- a.Drain the onions completely using a colander.
- b.Gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- c.In a mixing bowl, add the drained onion rings, lemon juice, chaat masala, Kashmiri red chili powder, and salt.
- d.Toss everything together gently until the rings are well-coated.
- 4
Step 4
TIPDo not let the salad sit for long after dressing, as the salt will draw out water and make the onions soggy.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Serve immediately to prevent the onions from becoming soggy.
- 2Use a mandoline slicer for uniformly thin rings.
- 3Soaking in ice water is crucial for a crisp texture and milder flavor.
- 4For extra tang, you can add a pinch of amchur (dry mango powder).
- 5Use red onions for a slightly sweeter taste and vibrant color.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
This recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free.
jainJain
A Jain version is not possible as onion is the core ingredient. A similar tangy salad can be made with thinly sliced cabbage or cucumber.
healthyHealthy
This recipe is already very healthy. To reduce sodium, you can use black salt (kala namak) or simply reduce the amount of salt used.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the green chili and use Kashmiri red chili powder, which provides color with minimal heat, to make it suitable for kids.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Extremely Low in Calories
This salad is a perfect way to add flavor and crunch to your meal without adding significant calories or fat.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are a great source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps combat inflammation and supports overall health.
Source of Vitamin C
The use of fresh lemon juice provides a good amount of Vitamin C, which is vital for a strong immune system and healthy skin.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy side dish. It is low in calories and fat-free. Onions provide fiber and antioxidants, while fresh lemon juice adds a boost of Vitamin C.