How to Make Palak Paneer Tikka – A Healthy & Delicious Indian Appetiser

 

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Introduction

Palak Paneer Tikka is a delicious and healthy vegetarian appetiser that brings together two beloved Indian ingredients: palak (spinach) and paneer (Indian cottage cheese). A variation of the classic paneer tikka, this dish is not only packed with flavour but also rich in nutrients. It’s ideal for grilling, baking, or even cooking on a tawa (flat pan).

Whether you're entertaining guests or simply craving something nutritious and tasty, this green-hued tikka is a showstopper. In this blog, you’ll learn how to make palak paneer tikka at home in a few simple steps, using British English and full Google SEO best practices to help you discover and enjoy this delightful Indian starter.

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What is Palak Paneer Tikka?

Palak Paneer Tikka is a twist on the traditional paneer tikka recipe, where the paneer cubes are marinated in a spinach-based mixture instead of the classic red tandoori marinade. The result is a vibrant green, smoky and flavourful appetiser that is grilled until slightly charred and served hot with chutney or salad.

It’s a great way to sneak in greens, especially for children and picky eaters, and works well as a healthy starter, snack, or even a side dish.

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Health Benefits of Palak Paneer Tikka

Rich in protein – thanks to paneer (great for vegetarians).

High in iron and vitamins from fresh spinach.

Low in oil (especially when baked or air-fried).

Naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan with substitutes.

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Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need to prepare Palak Paneer Tikka:

For the Palak Marinade:

200g fresh spinach (palak)

2–3 green chillies (adjust to taste)

1-inch piece of ginger

3–4 garlic cloves

2 tablespoons thick yoghurt (hung curd or Greek yoghurt)

1 tablespoon gram flour (besan)

½ teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon garam masala

1 teaspoon chaat masala

Juice of ½ lemon

Salt to taste

1 tablespoon mustard oil (optional, for flavour)

For the Tikka:

250g paneer (cut into cubes)

1 small onion (cut into chunks)

1 small bell pepper (any colour, cut into chunks)

Skewers (wooden or metal)

Oil or ghee for brushing

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Equipment Required

Blender or mixer (to make spinach paste)

Mixing bowl

Grill, oven, tawa (flat pan) or air fryer

Skewers

Brush for oil/ghee

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Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Marination Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours

Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

Total Time: Up to 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves: 3–4

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How to Make Palak Paneer Tikka – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Spinach Marinade

1. Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly.

2. Blanch the spinach in hot water for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to ice-cold water to preserve the green colour.

3. Drain and blend the spinach along with green chillies, ginger and garlic into a smooth paste.

4. In a bowl, combine the spinach puree with yoghurt, gram flour, spices (turmeric, cumin, garam masala, chaat masala), lemon juice, mustard oil and salt. Mix well.

Step 2: Marinate the Paneer and Veggies

1. Add paneer cubes, onion chunks, and bell pepper pieces to the marinade.

2. Gently mix to coat everything evenly without breaking the paneer.

3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (longer marination gives better flavour).

Step 3: Skewer and Cook

Grill or Oven Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).

2. Thread the marinated paneer, onion, and pepper onto skewers.

3. Place on a baking tray lined with foil or parchment paper.

4. Brush with a little oil or ghee.

5. Grill or bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway, until edges are charred.

Tawa (Stovetop) Method:

1. Heat a non-stick tawa or flat pan.

2. Drizzle some oil and cook the skewered or loose paneer pieces on medium heat.

3. Turn occasionally to get a golden crust on all sides.

Air Fryer Method:

1. Preheat air fryer to 180°C.

2. Place tikka pieces in the basket and cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Serving Suggestions

Palak Paneer Tikka is best served hot, alongside:

Mint coriander chutney

Lemon wedges

Pickled onions

Green salad or cucumber slices

You can also serve it as a side dish with naan, roti, or even as a filling in wraps and rolls.

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Tips for Perfect Palak Paneer Tikka

Use hung curd or thick yoghurt to avoid a runny marinade.

Don’t skip blanching spinach to get a smooth, bright green puree.

Mustard oil gives a unique smoky flavour but can be replaced with olive oil.

Use toothpicks or small skewers if you don’t have traditional ones.

Marinate overnight for more intense flavour.

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Variations to Try

Vegan Palak Tikka – Use tofu instead of paneer and plant-based yoghurt.

Cheesy Tikka – Sprinkle grated cheese over the tikka just before baking.

Palak Mushroom Tikka – Swap paneer for mushrooms or combine both.

Palak Paneer Tikka Wraps – Use the tikka as a stuffing for wraps or kathi rolls with chutney and salad.

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How to Store and Reheat

Leftover tikka can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer for 5 minutes to retain the crispy texture.

Avoid microwaving as it can make the paneer rubbery.

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FAQs about Palak Paneer Tikka

Q. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and blend well. The taste may vary slightly, but it’s still delicious.

Q. Is palak paneer tikka spicy?

It’s mildly spicy. You can increase or reduce green chillies based on your preference.

Q. Can I make this without an oven or grill?

Absolutely! Use a non-stick tawa or pan on your stove for excellent results.

Q. Can I prepare this tikka ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the ingredients a day in advance and cook just before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 250

Protein: 13g

Fat: 15g

Carbohydrates: 12g

Fibre: 3g

Calcium: High (due to paneer and spinach)

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Final Thoughts

Palak Paneer Tikka is a must-try for anyone who loves Indian food and wants to include more greens in their diet. It’s a perfect blend of taste and health—high in protein, full of flavour, and low in guilt. With the flexibility to grill, bake, or pan-fry, it’s one of the easiest appetisers to prepare at home.

So next time you're planning a dinner party or a cosy evening snack, surprise your guests with this vibrant, delicious, and healthy Indian starter!

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.