Sumac Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe – Easy Middle Eastern Inspired

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sumac Tomato Cucumber Salad Recipe – Easy Middle Eastern Inspired

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for fresh, vibrant salads that are bursting with flavor. This Sumac Tomato Cucumber Salad is exactly that. I first stumbled upon this beauty during a trip exploring the incredible flavors of the Middle East, and I’ve been hooked ever since. It’s unbelievably easy to make, requires minimal cooking (basically none!), and is the perfect side dish or light lunch. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is a total winner for so many reasons. It’s quick – ready in just 20 minutes! – and requires only a handful of ingredients. The sumac gives it a wonderfully tangy, lemony flavor that’s seriously addictive. Plus, it’s incredibly refreshing, making it ideal for warm weather. Honestly, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful salad:

• 4 Tomatoes
• 1 large Onion
• 1 English Cucumber
• 0.25 cup Finely chopped Cilantro
• 2 tbsp Finely chopped mint
• 1.5 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 0.5 tsp Sumac
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper Powder
• Salt to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because choosing the right ones makes all the difference.

Sumac: A Unique Middle Eastern Spice

Sumac is the star of the show here! It’s a vibrant red spice made from dried sumac berries, and it has a lovely tart, lemony flavor. You can usually find it at Middle Eastern grocery stores, or online. Don’t skip it – it really makes this salad special!

Olive Oil Varieties & Their Impact

I prefer using a good quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil for the best flavor. A fruity, robust olive oil works beautifully. But honestly, use what you love!

Fresh Herbs: Cilantro vs. Mint

Fresh herbs are key. Cilantro and mint bring such a bright, aromatic quality to the salad. I love the combination, but if you’re not a cilantro fan, feel free to use more mint.

Tomato & Cucumber Selection for Best Flavor

For the tomatoes, Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are fantastic. They hold their shape well and have great flavor. English cucumbers are my go-to because they have fewer seeds and a thinner skin, but any cucumber will work.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! (Though, honestly, it’s more like assembling…)

1. In a large bowl, combine your finely chopped tomatoes, onion, and cucumber. Don’t be shy with the chopping – you want everything to be bite-sized. Mix it all up gently.
2. Now, for the dressing! In a small jar, whisk together the lemon juice, sumac, olive oil, black pepper, and salt. Give it a good shake until everything is nicely combined.
3. Pour that gorgeous dressing over the salad. Add in your chopped cilantro and mint, then toss everything together really well. Make sure every piece is coated in that flavorful dressing.
4. Here’s the important part: refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to get nice and chilled. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Expert Tips

Want to take this salad to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tricks:

Achieving the Perfect Balance of Flavors

Taste as you go! Adjust the sumac, lemon juice, and salt to your liking. Everyone’s palate is different.

Ensuring Crispness & Preventing Wateriness

Don’t add the salt too early, as it can draw out moisture from the tomatoes and cucumbers. Add it just before tossing with the dressing.

Making Ahead & Flavor Development

You can definitely make this salad a few hours ahead of time. The flavors actually get better as they sit! Just be aware that the cucumbers might release a little water.

Variations

This salad is super versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it:

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! No changes needed.

Spice Level Adjustment

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick. My friend Sarah loves adding a finely chopped green chili for extra heat.

Herbal Variations (Parsley, Dill)

Don’t have mint or cilantro? Parsley or dill would also be delicious additions.

Regional Variations – Lebanese, Syrian Influences

In some Lebanese versions, they add a sprinkle of za’atar to the salad. Syrian variations sometimes include pomegranate molasses in the dressing for a touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is amazing on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other dishes.

Pairing with Grilled Meats & Seafood

It’s the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. The tangy flavors cut through the richness of the meat.

Serving as Part of a Mezze Platter

This salad is a staple in Middle Eastern mezze platters. Serve it alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, and pita bread.

Complementary Bread Choices

Warm pita bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for soaking up the delicious dressing.

Storage Instructions

Maintaining Freshness & Preventing Soggy Salad

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How Long Will It Keep?

It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. The cucumbers will start to soften after that.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is Sumac and where can I find it?

Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice made from dried sumac berries. You can find it at Middle Eastern grocery stores or online retailers.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

While fresh herbs are best, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Can this salad be made ahead of time?

Yes! It can be made a few hours ahead of time. The flavors will actually develop and improve as it sits.

What type of tomatoes work best in this salad?

Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes are great choices. They hold their shape well and have good flavor.

Is it possible to adjust the acidity of the dressing?

Absolutely! Add more or less lemon juice to adjust the acidity to your liking.