Bitter Melon and Onion Salad: A Refreshing Summer Dish

Bitter melon, also known as bitter gourd, is a nutritious vegetable that’s especially beneficial during the summer months. It has a distinctive bitter taste that pairs well with the sharpness of onions. This simple and refreshing salad is a great way to incorporate more bitter melon into your diet. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients

• 1 medium bitter melon
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt (for bitter melon preparation)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance bitterness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
1. Prepare the Bitter Melon

1. Wash and Slice: Wash the bitter melon thoroughly. Cut it in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. Slice the bitter melon into thin half-moons.
2. Salt the Bitter Melon: Place the sliced bitter melon in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of salt. Toss to coat and let it sit for about 20-30 minutes. This process helps reduce the bitterness.
3. Rinse and Drain: After 20-30 minutes, rinse the bitter melon slices under cold water to remove the salt. Drain well and pat dry with a paper towel.

2. Prepare the Onion

1. Slice the Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and place it in a bowl of cold water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes to reduce its sharpness. Drain and pat dry.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the prepared bitter melon and red onion slices.
2. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, honey or maple syrup (if using), salt, and pepper.