Passover is a special time for Jewish families around the world, and one of the traditional dishes that is prepared during this holiday is Bitter Herbs Salad. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a delicious and healthy salad using bitter herbs and other fresh ingredients.
Bitter Herbs Salad

Ingredients:
- 1 cup bitter lettuce
- 1 cup mixed bitter herbs (such as dandelion greens, arugula, and watercress)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the bitter lettuce, mixed bitter herbs, chopped parsley, mint, and cilantro.
- Add the sliced red onion, toasted pine nuts, and crumbled feta cheese.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust the seasoning if needed.
How to Prepare:
To prepare the Bitter Herbs Salad, start by washing all the fresh herbs and lettuce under cold water. Dry them thoroughly using a salad spinner or by gently patting them with a clean kitchen towel. Chop the parsley, mint, and cilantro finely. Thinly slice the red onion and toast the pine nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown.
Preparation Time:
The preparation time for this Bitter Herbs Salad is approximately 15 minutes.
Servings:
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutrition Facts:
While it is difficult to provide exact nutrition facts for this recipe as it may vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used, this Bitter Herbs Salad is generally low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and antioxidants.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize this salad by adding other vegetables or herbs that you enjoy.
- The dressing can be adjusted to suit your personal preference. You can add more lemon juice or olive oil if desired.
- For a vegan version of this salad, omit the feta cheese or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative.
- If you don’t have access to bitter lettuce or specific bitter herbs, you can use a combination of other leafy greens, such as romaine lettuce or spinach.
FAQs:
Q: What are bitter herbs?
A: Bitter herbs are a category of herbs that have a bitter taste. They are commonly used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
Q: Can I make this salad in advance?
A: Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time. However, it is best to dress the salad just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting.
Q: Are bitter herbs good for you?
A: Yes, bitter herbs have been traditionally used for their health benefits. They are believed to aid digestion, stimulate appetite, and promote detoxification.
This Bitter Herbs Salad is a wonderful addition to your Passover table. It is not only delicious but also packed with fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients. Enjoy!