Sumac and Onion Salad

A Tangy, Refreshing Middle Eastern Classic

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Serves: 2

Sumac and Onion Salad is one of the most beloved and famous salads on the Arab table—especially when served alongside grilled meats and rich main dishes. It’s a simple, easy-to-make salad with only a few ingredients, yet its tangy, lemony flavor makes it absolutely irresistible.

🧅 Ingredients

• 1 large red onion, thinly sliced (into fine strips or wedges)

• 2 tablespoons sumac

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• A pinch of salt

• ½ cup chopped parsley

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Slice the red onion into thin strips.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the onion with lemon juice, salt, and olive oil.

3. Generously sprinkle the sumac over the onion.

4. Using your hands, gently rub and massage the onions with the dressing and sumac.
   This step is important—it softens the onion’s sharpness, blends the flavors beautifully, and gives it that gorgeous pink hue from the sumac.

5. Add the chopped parsley and toss gently to combine.

6. Serve immediately, or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.