Horse Gram Sprouts Salad Recipe – Quick & Healthy Indian Salad

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Horse Gram Sprouts Salad Recipe – Quick & Healthy Indian Salad

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always looking for ways to sneak more goodness into your diet, especially when life gets busy. This Horse Gram Sprouts Salad is my go-to – it’s unbelievably quick to whip up, super refreshing, and packed with nutrients. I first made this when I was trying to eat healthier post-festive season, and it’s been a staple ever since! It’s become a family favourite, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another salad; it’s a little powerhouse of health! It’s perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a healthy snack. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can easily adapt it to your taste. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of horse gram, a seriously underrated superfood. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this vibrant salad:

• 1 cup horse gram sprouts
• 1 tomato (whole)
• 1 carrot (whole)
• 1 cucumber (whole)
• 1 capsicum (whole)
• 4-5 lettuce leaves
• 2 tbsp parsley/coriander leaves, freshly chopped
• 1.5 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon juice, to taste
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper powder, to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Horse gram (kulthi dal) is a real gem. It’s a fantastic source of protein, iron, and fiber – seriously good for your energy levels and digestion. Traditionally, horse gram is used a lot in Ayurvedic medicine and is especially popular during the winter months in many parts of India for its warming properties.

Sprouts, in general, are amazing. They’re easier to digest and the sprouting process actually increases the nutritional value! You’ll often find different types of sprouts used in chaat all over India.

And finally, olive oil! I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its flavour and health benefits, but you can use any good quality olive oil you like. A little goes a long way, so don’t be shy with it.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Don’t worry, it’s super simple.

1. First, let’s prep the veggies. Finely chop the tomato, carrot, cucumber, and capsicum. Then, tear the lettuce leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large bowl, combine all those beautifully chopped vegetables with the horse gram sprouts.
3. Now for the dressing! In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper powder. Give it a good mix until everything is nicely combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything together. You want to make sure all the veggies and sprouts are evenly coated.
5. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped coriander or parsley leaves. And that’s it! Ready to enjoy.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Don’t overdress the salad! You want a light coating, not a soggy mess.
• Make sure your veggies are nicely chopped – it makes all the difference in the texture.
• If you’re short on time, you can buy pre-washed and chopped lettuce.
• For a brighter flavour, add a tiny pinch of chaat masala to the dressing.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Spice Level Adjustment: My friend loves a little kick, so she adds a finely chopped green chili to the salad. It’s delicious!
• Festival Adaptation: During Navratri, this salad is perfect as it uses ingredients allowed during the fast.
• Different Sprouts: Feel free to experiment with other sprouts like moong (mung bean) or chana (chickpea) sprouts. They all work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is great on its own, but it also pairs well with so many things! It’s lovely alongside a simple roti or paratha. You can also serve it as a side dish with your favourite Indian meal. I often pack it for lunch at work – it stays fresh and is so satisfying.

Storage Instructions

If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the veggies will start to get a little soggy over time.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

What are the health benefits of horse gram sprouts?

Horse gram sprouts are incredibly nutritious! They’re packed with protein, fiber, iron, and antioxidants. They’re great for digestion, energy levels, and overall health.

Can I use other types of sprouts in this salad?

Absolutely! Moong, chana, or even a mixed sprout blend would work wonderfully.

How long can I store the salad in the refrigerator?

Ideally, enjoy it fresh. But you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.

What is the best way to sprout horse gram at home?

Soak horse gram overnight, then drain and rinse it twice a day for 2-3 days until sprouts appear.

Can I add a protein source like paneer or boiled egg to this salad?

Definitely! Cubed paneer or a sliced boiled egg would make it even more filling and nutritious.