This National Nutrition Week, Make This Crunchy, Protein-Rich

Makhana Peanut Salad

National Nutrition Week is a reminder that eating well doesn't need to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. Introducing one of the easiest salads out there, the makhana peanut salad that comes together in under 20 minutes and uses peanuts and makhana, both of which are roasted and rich in protein, tossed with fresh vegetables that are chopped, and a handful of spices. Makhana, or fox nuts, tends to be a fasting-friendly food item, but beyond that, you can use it to make this delicious salad recipe too, which can be enjoyed as a side dish with dal-chawal or something to enjoy like a chaat with your favourite cup of chai or coffee in the evening. With online spaces increasingly revolving around food and nutrition in recent years, fox nuts are some of the healthier snacking options out there. It’s for good reason for its low in fat, a good source of protein and fibre relative to its calorie count, and has a satisfying crunch. Peanuts are also a great addition to this salad recipe that bring their own protein and healthy fat to the bowl, rounding out what would otherwise be a fairly light salad into something more filling. If using raw peanuts, roasting them the same way as the makhana, until just light brown, brings out a deeper, nuttier flavour than using them raw; pre-roasted peanuts can go in as-is to save a step. Once both are roasted and cooled, the makhana gets a rough crush in a covered bowl or a clean cloth, into bite-sized pieces so the salad's spices and lemon juice can coat it well, rather than sliding off larger, whole pieces.