This vibrant sumac onion salad is a classic Middle Eastern condiment made with thinly sliced onions, tangy sumac, fresh parsley, and a light vinaigrette. Bright, zesty, and refreshing, it comes together quickly and adds a punch of flavor to grilled dishes, rice plates, wraps, and mezze spreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast, fresh, and incredibly versatile. It requires just a handful of pantry staples and delivers bold, citrusy flavor with minimal effort. The onions soften as they marinate, the sumac adds a pleasantly tart note, and the parsley keeps everything lively and aromatic. It’s naturally light, plant-based, and easy to adjust to your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 medium red onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, roughly chopped
• 2 teaspoons ground sumac
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

Directions

1. Place the sliced onions in a medium bowl and gently separate the layers with your hands.
2. Add the chopped parsley, sumac, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and salt.
3. Massage the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to evenly coat the onions and help soften them.
4. Set aside to marinate for 20 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Add a pinch of Aleppo pepper or mild red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
• Replace the vinegar with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a brighter citrus profile.
• Stir in 1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses for a subtle sweet-tart depth.
• Use white or yellow onions for a milder onion flavor.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings as a condiment or side.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The onions will continue to soften and deepen in flavor over time. This dish is served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. Stir gently before serving.

FAQs

Can I make sumac onions ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made up to one day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How do I reduce the sharpness of raw onions?

Soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 to 15 minutes, then drain and pat dry before mixing.

Can I use a different type of onion?

Yes, white or yellow onions work well, and sweet onions offer a milder taste.

Is sumac essential for this recipe?

Yes, sumac provides the signature tangy flavor that defines this dish.

Can I skip the parsley?

You can omit it if needed, though it adds freshness and color.

What dishes pair well with sumac onions?

They pair beautifully with grilled meats, fish, rice dishes, wraps, and mezze platters.

Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar?

Yes, lemon juice is an excellent substitute and keeps the flavor bright.

How long should the onions marinate?

Twenty minutes is ideal, but even 10 minutes will add flavor.

Are sumac onions spicy?

No, sumac is tangy and citrusy, not spicy.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, this recipe scales easily for gatherings.

Conclusion

Sumac onions are a simple yet powerful addition to your kitchen repertoire. With their bold color, tangy flavor, and quick preparation, they elevate everyday meals and special spreads alike. Once you try them, you’ll find endless ways to enjoy this timeless Middle Eastern classic.

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