Name: Sumac Onions (Turkish Onion Salad) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 2 cups thinly sliced red onions; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons sumac; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon sugar

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Sumac Onions, also known as Turkish Onion Salad, is a bright and tangy side dish that perfectly complements grilled meats and Mediterranean meals. With the vibrant flavors of sumac, lemon, and fresh herbs, this salad is a simple way to add a zesty kick to your table.

A white bowl filled with thinly sliced red onions mixed with small green parsley leaves, all lightly sprinkled with dark purple powder, creating a fresh and colorful texture. The onions show layers of white and vibrant pink, sitting on top of a layer of the same mixture, with visible seasoning throughout. The bowl is placed on a brown textured mat with some scattered parsley leaves nearby, and a small white bowl with more dark purple powder in the background. The whole scene rests on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups thinly sliced red onions
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons sumac
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon sugar

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced red onions and chopped parsley.
Step 2: Add the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and sugar to the bowl.
Step 3: Massage the mixture well using your hands. This helps the onions absorb the flavors more thoroughly, resulting in a richer taste.
Step 4: Refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tips & Variations

For a milder onion flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before mixing.
Try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for a subtle heat.
Fresh mint can be added along with parsley for an extra refreshing note.

Storage

Store the onion salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, and it’s best enjoyed cold. Avoid storing for too long as the onions may become too soft.

How to Serve

A close-up photo of a bowl filled with thinly sliced red onions mixed with a dark purple spice and small green herb pieces, creating a colorful mix of white and pink with green specks throughout. The bowl is white and sits on a white plate with a textured brown cloth underneath, all placed on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a small white bowl filled with the same dark purple spice and some scattered green herbs. Nearby is a light gray fabric casually folded, adding soft texture to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of onions for this salad?

Red onions are preferred for their mild sweetness and color, but you can substitute with white or sweet onions if needed. Just note the flavor profile will change slightly.

What is sumac, and where can I find it?

Sumac is a tangy, lemony spice commonly used in Middle Eastern cooking. You can find it in most well-stocked grocery stores or specialty spice shops, and online as well.