Savory Peach and Cucumber Salad

Ingredients for Savory Peach and Cucumber Salad

• 45g raw pumpkin seeds

• 1 tablespoon plus 60ml olive oil

• Kosher salt

• 1 cardamom pod

• 1 whole clove

• 1/2 teaspoons coriander seeds

• 1/2 teaspoons cumin seeds

• 1 serrano chilli, finely grated

• 1 garlic clove, finely grated

• 3 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

• 3 tablespoons finely chopped coriander, plus leaves with tender stems for serving

• 45ml (or more) fresh lemon juice

• 2 medium Persian cucumbers, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 4 medium yellow peaches, cut into 1–1 1/2-inch pieces

• 1 avocado, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

• A spice mill or mortar and pestle

Preheat oven to 177°C. Toast pumpkin seeds on a rimmed baking sheet, tossing halfway through, until golden brown and slightly puffed, 5–7 minutes; let cool. Transfer to a small bowl and toss with 1 tablespoon oil; season with salt.

Meanwhile, toast cardamom, clove, coriander, and cumin in a dry small skillet over medium heat, tossing occasionally, until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove seeds from cardamom pod; discard pod. Finely grind seeds along with other spices in spice mill or with mortar and pestle. Mix in a large bowl with chilli, garlic, parsley, chopped coriander, lemon juice, and remaining 60ml oil; season with salt. Add cucumber and toss. Let sit 5 minutes.

Add peaches, avocado, and half of the pumpkin seeds to cucumber mixture and season generously with salt; toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and/or lemon juice.

Serve topped with sesame seeds, coriander leaves, and remaining pumpkin seeds.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.