Summer is finally here, and it's time to soak up the sun, hit the beach, and indulge in all the delicious foods of the season! From juicy watermelons to grilled burgers, there are a wide variety of mouth-watering treats to enjoy during the summer. One of the best things about summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables. You can stroll through the farmer's market or the grocery store and find a rainbow of colours and flavours that are perfect for summertime snacking. Whether it's sweet strawberries, tangy cherries, or succulent peaches, the summer season is packed with tasty and nutritious options.
But it's not just about healthy foods in the summer. This is the season to indulge in all your guilty pleasures, too. Who doesn't love a refreshing ice cream cone or a fruity popsicle on a hot day? Summer is the time to let loose and indulge in all the tasty treats you've been craving. And let's not forget about the drinks! Summer cocktails like margaritas, piña coladas, and daiquiris are the perfect way to cool off and unwind after a long day in the sun. And for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, there's always lemonade, iced tea, or a cool glass of water infused with fresh herbs or fruit.
Talking particularly about Indian cuisine, summer is the perfect time to indulge in some light and refreshing dishes. From cool salads to mango dishes, the list is unending. Indian cuisine offers a wide range of summer dishes that are not only delicious but also nutritious and healthy. Here are the top 10 summer dishes from India that you should try:
Mango Lassi
Lauki Kofta
Lauki kofta is a popular vegetarian dish in Indian cuisine. The dish consists of koftas (deep-fried balls) made from grated bottle gourd, besan (gram flour), and spices, which are then simmered in a rich tomato-based gravy. The dish is typically served with rice or Indian flatbread and is a nutritious and flavourful option for those looking for a meatless meal. Lauki kofta is not only a tasty dish but also a great way to incorporate vegetables into your diet.
Watermelon Salad
Watermelon salad is a refreshing and flavourful dish that is perfect for hot summer days. This salad is typically made with juicy chunks of watermelon, cheese like feta or ricotta, and a mix of fresh herbs and spices such as mint, cilantro, and cumin. The addition of crunchy onions and a squeeze of lime juice adds a delightful tanginess to the salad. Indian watermelon salad is not only delicious but also a healthy option, as watermelon is rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Enjoy it as a light snack or a side dish with your favourite meal.
Aam Panna
Aam panna is an Indian summer drink made from raw mangoes. The tangy, sweet, and spicy flavours of aam panna make it a popular beverage during hot weather. The drink is prepared by boiling raw mangoes, blending them with mint leaves, cumin powder, salt, and sugar, and then mixing the mixture with chilled water. Aam panna is rich in vitamin C and other essential nutrients, making it a healthy beverage option. It is also a natural coolant and can help alleviate heat stroke symptoms.
Mango Curry
Mango curry is a delicious and aromatic dish that brings together the sweetness of ripe mangoes and the spice of Indian cuisine. This vegetarian curry is typically made with coconut milk, turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala, which provide a rich and complex flavour profile. The addition of fresh mangoes adds a sweet and tangy twist to the dish, while the combination of spices creates a well-balanced flavour. Indian mango curry can be enjoyed on its own or served with steamed rice or naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Cucumber Raita
Cucumber raita is a refreshing and cooling yoghurt-based side dish that is commonly served with Indian meals. It's made by combining diced cucumber, yoghurt, and a few spices. Cucumber raita is not only delicious but also provides a host of health benefits. Cucumber is high in water content, making it great for hydration, while yoghurt is rich in probiotics that aid digestion. The combination of these ingredients makes cucumber raita a perfect accompaniment to spicy dishes or a light and healthy snack on its own.
Mango Dal
Mango dal is a delicious and nutritious dish that is popular across the country. It is made by cooking lentils with chunks of ripe mango and a variety of spices. The sweet and tangy flavour of the mangoes adds a unique twist to the traditional lentil soup. Mango dal is a great source of protein, fibre, and vitamins, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. It can be enjoyed with rice or bread and is perfect for a wholesome and flavourful lunch or dinner.
Pakhala
Pakhala is Odisha's answer to a hot summer's day - a refreshing, cool and quirky dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and hydrated. It's basically rice that's been fermented overnight in water, giving it a slightly sour taste. The rice is then served with an array of side dishes, from crispy fried fish to spicy pickles. And the best part? You eat it with your hands! So not only is pakhala delicious, but it's also a fun and interactive dining experience. Trust us, once you try it, you'll be hooked on this funky dish from Odisha!
Sattu Sharbat
Sattu sharbat is the superhero of summer drinks - it's cool, refreshing and packed with superpowers! Made from sattu, a flour-like substance made from roasted chickpeas, this drink will give you the energy to conquer any heatwave. It's like a healthy milkshake, with a nutty, earthy flavor that will leave you feeling satisfied and refreshed. And the best part? Sattu sharbat is known for its cooling properties, making it the perfect drink for hot summer days. So, say goodbye to boring old lemonade and hello to the superpowers of sattu sharbat!
Phalsa Chutney
Phalsa chutney is a tangy delight that's like a party in your mouth! Made from the small but mighty phalsa fruit, this chutney is a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. It's a balance of sweet and sour, with the sweetness of jaggery perfectly complementing the tartness of the phalsa. This chutney is a versatile little devil - use it as a dip for samosas, spread it on a sandwich or even use it as a marinade for chicken. So why settle for boring old ketchup when you can spice up your life with phalsa chutney?