Green Fig (banana) Salad

Ingredients:

• 6-8 green bananas (green figs)
• 1/2 pound of salted codfish (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1/2 bell pepper (chopped, any color)
• 2 stalks of celery (finely chopped)
• 1 small cucumber (peeled and diced)
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley (chopped)
• Juice of 1 lime or lemon
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1-2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Codfish (if using):

   • Soak the salted codfish in water for a few hours or overnight to remove excess salt. Change the water a few times during soaking.
   • Once soaked, boil the codfish for about 10-15 minutes until tender.
   • Drain, cool, and shred the codfish into small pieces. Set aside.

2. Cook the Green Bananas:

   • Wash the green bananas (leave the skins on) and cut off both ends.
   • Bring a pot of water to a boil, then add the bananas. Cook them with the skins on for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender but not mushy.
   • Drain the bananas and allow them to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and cut the bananas into small rounds or bite-sized pieces.

3. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • While the bananas are cooking, prepare the other vegetables: chop the onion, bell pepper, celery, and cucumber. Mince the garlic and parsley.

4. Assemble the Salad:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked bananas, shredded codfish (if using), and chopped vegetables.
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the lime or lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper to create the dressing.

5. Mix and Serve:

   • Pour the dressing over the banana mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   • Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature as a side dish or light meal.

Optional Additions:

• You can add sliced boiled eggs or avocado for extra richness.
• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the salted codfish.

Enjoy your fresh and nutritious Grenadian Green Fig Salad!