Nigerian salad is a vibrant, rich, and hearty dish, packed with fresh vegetables, proteins, and a creamy dressing. Unlike many traditional salads, this one is loaded with multiple ingredients, making it almost a complete meal on its own. It’s often served as a side dish with jollof rice, fried rice, grilled chicken, or suya at Nigerian parties, celebrations, and family meals.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sweet corn (canned or boiled)
- 1 cup baked beans (canned)
- 2 boiled eggs, sliced
- 1 can sardines or tuna, drained and flaked (optional)
- 2 medium potatoes, boiled and cubed
- 1 medium apple, diced (optional for sweetness)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons condensed milk or sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and finely shred the cabbage and lettuce.
- Peel and grate the carrots.
- Dice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and apples.
- Thinly slice the onion for a mild crunch.
- Boil the potatoes until just tender, then cube them.
- Drain the sweet corn and baked beans.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- In a large bowl, layer the cabbage, lettuce, carrots, potatoes, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
- Add the sweet corn, baked beans, and diced apples (if using).
- Gently toss to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Flake the sardines or tuna over the top.
- Arrange the sliced boiled eggs for decoration.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, condensed milk (or sugar), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
- Pour the dressing over the salad just before serving or serve it on the side.
- Toss lightly to coat the ingredients in the dressing.
- Serve fresh as a side dish or a light main meal.
Tips & Variations
- For extra protein, add shredded chicken or boiled macaroni.
- For a healthier version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- For more crunch, add roasted peanuts or croutons.
- Make-ahead tip: Prepare the vegetables in advance, but mix the dressing in just before serving to keep it fresh.
Nigerian salad is a colorful, delicious, and nutritious dish that pairs well with many meals. Whether served at a party or as a simple home meal, it’s always a crowd-pleaser! 🥗🎉