High Protein Paneer Salad (Indian Style)

Ingredients

For Paneer

• 1 cup paneer, cut into ½ inch cubes (about 200 grams)
• 1 teaspoon oil
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes optional
• salt, pepper to taste

For Dressing

• ½ cup Greek yogurt (hung curd)
• 6-8 soaked cashews (or soaked almonds)
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri red chili powder
• ½ teaspoon oregano (or Italian herbs)
• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes optional
• ½ teaspoon roasted cumin powder
• salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup optional, but recommended

Veggies

• 1 cup romaine lettuce
• ½ cup onion diced
• ½ cup cucumber diced
• ½ cup tomato deseeded and diced
• ½ cup colored bell peppers diced
• 2 tablespoons coriander leaves

Steps

1. Use a blender to puree Greek yogurt (hung curd), soaked cashews, minced garlic clove, red chili powder, oregano (or Italian herbs), red chili flakes, cumin powder, salt to taste, lemon juice and maple syrup until smooth.
2. Heat oil in a pan, then add paneer cubes, red chili flakes, garlic powder and salt and pepper to taste. Saute about 3-4 minutes or until golden and crispy, then set aside. Alternatively, air fry the paneer.
3. Put romaine lettuce, diced onions, diced cucumber, diced tomatoes, diced coloured bell peppers and the pan-fried paneer in a large mixing bowl.
4. Add the spicy Greek yogurt dressing, followed by coriander leaves.
5. Toss well and adjust seasoning if needed. Enjoy straight away, or refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.