Gaudi's Salad (A Mosaic of Colour)

HISTORY & INTERESTING FACTS

Antoni Gaudí, a renowned Spanish architect, was a prominent figure in the development of modern architecture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His distinctive style is synonymous with Barcelona's cityscape, and his works have become emblematic of the city's identity.

Gaudí's love for colour and mosaic stemmed from various influences, including his deep connection to nature, his studies of geometry and natural forms, and his admiration for traditional Catalan craftsmanship.

His architectural masterpieces, such as the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and Casa Milà, display vibrant colours and intricate mosaic designs. Gaudí often incorporated mosaic elements using colourful ceramic tiles, stones, and glass fragments, known as "trencadís," to adorn surfaces and facades of buildings. These mosaics were not only visually striking but also served functional purposes, offering durability and weather resistance while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of his structures.

Gaudí's fascination with colour was rooted in his belief that colours found in nature could evoke emotions and create a harmonious connection between architecture and its surroundings. He used a vibrant palette inspired by the colours of the Mediterranean, employing hues ranging from blues and greens to earthy tones, reflecting the natural environment of Catalonia.

His use of mosaic and vibrant colours aimed to create visually stunning and spiritually uplifting spaces, infusing his architectural creations with a sense of joy, vitality, and organic beauty. Gaudí's innovative approach to colour and mosaic not only defined his unique architectural style but also left an indelible mark on the city of Barcelona, turning it into a vibrant canvas of artistic expression and architectural innovation.

Hugh and I were married in Barcelona and my love of Gaudi and the city is considerable, this salad is my ode to Gaudi and Barcelona. It makes me happy each time I make it. I hope you enjoy it too!

Bon Profit! Raquel x

Serves: 4 as a side dish, or 2 as a light lunch

INGREDIENTS

• 2 large, tomatoes
• 1 cucumber, finely diced
• 1/2 medium Spanish red onion, finely diced
• 1 red capsicum, finely diced
• 1 yellow capsicum, finely diced
• 1 zucchini, finely diced
• Large handful of flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
• Large handful of mint, finely chopped
• Small handful of coriander, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp of pine nuts, toasted in a dry pan firstly, if possible
• zest of one large lemon (I take a few strips for garnish before zesting the remaining lemon)
• Juice of 1/2 a lemon, add more if desired
• 4 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

METHOD

1. Place all veg and herb ingredients into a bowl and toss with the lemon zest, EVOO, lemon juice, salt and pepper.
2. Taste and adjust lemon and salt, if required.
3. Serve with strips of lemon on top as a garnish.

TIPS, CHEATS & TROUBLESHOOTING

This salad will keep 3-4 days in the fridge, but best on day 1 or 2.

WINE MATCHING & SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To enjoy this light, zesty and delicious tasting salad, pair it with a crisp dry or semi-dry white wine likeAlbariño, Amphora Blanco or our Pinot Gris. These wines go well with the salad's lemony flavours.

Serve with Lamb Cutlets, BBQ meats or simply with fresh, crusty bread and some dips. It is delicious alongside myRoasted Artichoke and Garlic Spreador my Romesco sauce.