Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad is light, refreshing, and packed with bold flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and aromatic parsley creates a perfect balance of textures. The lemony dressing with olive oil and a hint of spice elevates the dish, making it an excellent addition to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern meals.
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sumac (optional, for tangy flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Chop the parsley and mint.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, sumac, and cumin.
- Combine Everything: In a large mixing bowl, toss the chopped vegetables and herbs with the dressing.
- Chill and Serve: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Add Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy texture and enhances the flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños.
- Protein Boost: Toss in chickpeas for a heartier salad.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Best served fresh, but you can refresh leftovers with an extra splash of lemon juice.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a few hours in advance and refrigerate, but add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with this salad?
It pairs well with grilled meats, kebabs, falafel, hummus, or pita bread.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but you can use 1 teaspoon of dried mint and parsley if needed.
Is sumac necessary?
Sumac adds a tangy, citrus-like flavor but can be omitted or replaced with a splash of extra lemon juice.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Try adding bell peppers, radishes, or avocado for extra crunch and variety.
Conclusion
Middle Eastern Tomato Salad is a refreshing, easy-to-make dish that’s full of bold flavors and healthy ingredients. Whether served as a side or a light meal, this salad is a perfect way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Try it today and enjoy a burst of freshness with every bite!
