Sliced Onions
Crisp, thinly sliced raw onions, often seasoned with salt and lemon juice. This simple Indian salad, known as 'lachha pyaz', is the perfect cooling accompaniment to rich curries and grilled kebabs.
For 4 servings
3 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Onions (10-15 minutes)
- b.Peel the red onions and slice them into very thin rings. Using a mandoline slicer is highly recommended for uniform, paper-thin slices.
- c.Separate the rings and place them in a large bowl of ice-cold water for 10-15 minutes. This crucial step makes them extra crisp and mellows their sharp, pungent flavor.
- d.Drain the onions thoroughly in a colander. Pat them completely dry with paper towels or use a salad spinner to remove all excess moisture.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the Salad (1 minute)
- b.Transfer the dry, crisp onion rings to a mixing bowl.
- c.Sprinkle with salt, red chili powder, and chaat masala (if using). Add the finely chopped green chili now if you want extra heat.
- d.Drizzle the freshly squeezed lemon juice over the onions.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Toss, Garnish, and Serve (1 minute)
- b.Gently toss everything together with a fork or your hands until the seasonings are evenly distributed.
- c.Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves.
- d.Serve immediately to ensure the onions remain crisp and delicious.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use a mandoline slicer for paper-thin, uniform rings. This makes a huge difference in texture.
- 2Soaking in ice-cold water is the secret to crisp, less pungent onions. Don't skip this step!
- 3Always season just before serving. Salt draws out moisture, which will make the onions limp if left to sit.
- 4Pat the onions completely dry after soaking. Any excess water will dilute the flavors and prevent the spices from clinging.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of chaat masala for a tangy, savory kick that is very common in North Indian restaurants.
Spice LevelSpice Level
Incorporate 1-2 finely chopped green chilies for a fresh, spicy flavor.
HerbHerb
Mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint leaves along with the coriander for extra freshness.
VegetableVegetable
Add thinly sliced cucumber or radish for extra crunch and a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Onions are a great source of quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
Boosts Immunity
The vitamin C from both the onions and fresh lemon juice helps strengthen the immune system and ward off infections.
Supports Digestion
Onions contain prebiotic fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy digestive system.
Low in Calories
This salad is very low in calories and fat-free, making it an excellent side dish for weight management and a healthy diet.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this salad (about 1/2 cup) contains approximately 20-25 calories, making it a very light and healthy side dish.