Paneer Apple Salad Recipe – Easy Indian Fruit & Peanut Chaat

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Paneer Apple Salad Recipe – Easy Indian Fruit & Peanut Chaat

Hey everyone! If you’re looking for a quick, refreshing, and slightly unexpected Indian snack or side dish, you have to try this Paneer Apple Salad. It’s a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and crunchy – honestly, it’s one of those recipes I just keep coming back to, especially during warmer months. I first made this when I was craving something light but flavorful, and it’s been a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your typical salad. It’s a vibrant Indian-inspired chaat, bursting with fresh flavors and textures. It’s super easy to make, requires minimal cooking, and is ready in under 20 minutes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra fruits and veggies! It’s perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or even as a side with your favorite Indian meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad:

• 1 chopped apple
• 1 peeled and chopped cucumber
• 1 fistful boiled fresh green peas (about ½ cup)
• 1 grated carrot
• 0.25 cup paneer cubes
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 0.5 tbsp honey
• 1.5 tbsp coarsely ground roasted peanuts

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Paneer: This Indian cheese is the star! You can use store-bought or homemade. I prefer a slightly firm paneer that holds its shape well.
• Peanuts: Roasting the peanuts really brings out their flavor. In some parts of India, peanuts are roasted with a little bit of salt and chili powder for an extra kick – feel free to try that!
• Honey: I love using honey for a touch of natural sweetness. You could also use maple syrup or even a little bit of sugar if you prefer, but honey adds a lovely floral note. About 15ml of honey is perfect.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously simple.

1. First, heat 1 tsp oil in a pan. Sauté the paneer cubes for 2-3 minutes until they’re lightly golden. This adds a lovely texture and flavor. Set them aside to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped apple, peeled and chopped cucumber, boiled fresh green peas, and grated carrot.
3. Now, add the sautéed paneer to the bowl.
4. Time for the flavor boost! Add salt, pepper, honey, and coarsely ground roasted peanuts.
5. Gently toss everything together to make sure it’s all nicely combined.
6. Let the salad sit for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

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

• Don’t overcook the paneer – you just want a little color, not a crispy exterior.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the sautéing step, but it really does add a nice touch.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!

Variations

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

• Vegan Adaptation: Easily make this vegan by swapping the paneer for a plant-based paneer alternative. There are some great options available now!
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of chaat masala for a tangy and spicy kick. My friend, Priya, always adds it – she says it makes all the difference.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, which is fantastic!
• Summer Salad Adaptation: During the summer, I love adding a handful of pomegranate seeds for extra sweetness and a beautiful pop of color.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is incredibly versatile.

• Enjoy it as a light lunch on its own.
• Serve it as a side dish with your favorite Indian curries or rice dishes.
• Pack it for a picnic or potluck – it travels well!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh, as the apple and cucumber may soften over time.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this salad best served immediately, or does it taste better after resting? Letting it rest for 5-10 minutes definitely helps the flavors blend, but it’s still delicious if you eat it right away!
• Can I use a different type of nut instead of peanuts? Absolutely! Cashews or almonds would also be delicious.
• What kind of paneer works best in this salad? A firm, non-melting paneer is ideal.
• Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time? Yes, you can chop the vegetables and sauté the paneer ahead of time. Store them separately and combine everything just before serving.
• Is this salad suitable for kids? Definitely! My kids love it, especially the sweet and crunchy combination. You might want to reduce the amount of pepper for younger children.

Enjoy making (and eating!) this Paneer Apple Salad. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too! Let me know what you think in the comments below.