LUNCH

Easy Weeknight Palak Paneer Dinner Plan with Simple Salad

This quick and flavorful dinner plan features creamy Palak Paneer, a classic Indian dish, paired with a refreshing and light salad. It's perfect for a busy weeknight when you want a delicious and satisfying meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Palak Paneer:
  • 1 tablespoon Cow Ghee / Butter
  • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 green chili pepper, chopped (optional)
  • 1  diced tomato
  • 1 bunch fresh spinach, washed and chopped
  • 1 tablespoon garam masala
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 200gms paneer, cubed (about 1 cup)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Corriander Leaves (optional)

 

Simple Salad:
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium tomato, chopped
  • 1 large carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh Corriander Leaves

 

Optional:

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for salad dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for salad dressing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste (for salad dressing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Palak Paste: In a food processor or blender, combine the washed spinach leaves with 1/4 cup water, cumin seeds, and a pinch of salt. Blend until you have a smooth, green paste. Set aside.

2. Cook the Base: Heat ghee/buutter in a large pan  over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds. Add chopped onion and green chili pepper (if using) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Incorporate the Palak Paste: Stir in the prepared Palak Paste, garam masala, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and remaining salt. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Add Water and Paneer: Add about 1/2 cup of water (adjust based on desired consistency). Bring to a simmer, then add the paneer cheese cubes. Cover the pan and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the paneer is heated through.

6. While the paneer simmers, prepare the salad. In a bowl, combine sliced onion, chopped tomato, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro.

7. To make a simple salad dressing, whisk together lemon juice (optional), olive oil (optional), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, or serve on the side for individual customization.

8. Garnish the Palak Paneer with chopped fresh cilantro (optional) and serve hot with the Simple Salad on the side.

Tips

You can use 10 ounces of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry, for the Palak Paste.

Adjust the amount of chili powder to your desired level of spiciness.

Feel free to add other vegetables to the salad, such as chopped cucumber or bell peppers.

Enjoy this easy and delicious Palak Paneer Dinner Plan with a Simple Salad!