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Sumac onions are my go-to way to bring freshness and tang to grilled meats or salads with almost no prep. They work equally well as a side or vibrant condiment and make even a simple dinner taste restaurant special every single time.
The first time I made these onions for a kebab night, my guests devoured them faster than the main dish and now I make extra for leftovers because they add zing to wraps and salads all week.
Ingredients
- Red onion: sliced thin because its mild sweet flavor and vibrant color stand out best soak in cold water first if you want a milder taste
- Parsley leaves: fresh and finely chopped for brightness and color curly parsley is classic but flat leaf tastes great too
- Extra virgin olive oil: for richness and to meld the flavors choose a grassy green oil for best results
- Lemon juice: from one lemon for sharp acidity and freshness roll the lemon before squeezing to get maximum juice
- Ground sumac: this is the essential tart spice that gives the salad its signature zing make sure it is bright crimson and smells lemony for optimal flavor
- Kosher salt: to balance the acidity and let all the other flavors shine use flaky salt if possible for a gentle crunch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Onion:
- Slice a large red onion into thin half moons using a very sharp knife so the pieces are even and delicate this helps them soften quickly in the dressing
- Combine and Massage:
- Add the red onion slices parsley extra virgin olive oil lemon juice ground sumac and kosher salt to a large serving bowl then use your hands to gently massage the mixture for two to three minutes this releases the onion’s juices and helps everything meld together
- Taste and Adjust:
- Once everything is evenly coated give the mixture a taste and add a bit more sumac or salt if you like more tang or zing
- Marinate:
- Cover the bowl and set it aside for at least thirty minutes to let the flavors marry the onions will become softer and slightly pink as they soak up the dressing
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Sumac is the real star of this salad I love how it transforms humble onions into something so lively and special My family always jokes that I could eat sumac onions as a main dish and honestly with enough warm pita I just might
Storage Tips
Store any leftover sumac onions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The flavor gets even better as it sits but the parsley can wilt after a couple of days so I always try to add extra fresh parsley if serving leftovers
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of red onion try shallots for a bit of sweetness or white onion for a slightly sharper bite For extra crunch toss in a pinch of thinly sliced radishes If sumac is hard to find a tiny splash of pomegranate molasses plus extra lemon juice is a decent backup though the taste will shift a bit
Serving Suggestions
Pile these onions onto kebabs chicken shawarma grilled fish or tuck them into wraps and sandwiches For a lighter meal toss into a greens salad or top a bowl of hummus They are also delicious alongside eggs or as a fresh side for hearty rice dishes
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Cultural and Historical Context
Sumac onions are a classic Turkish side often served with kebabs or rich grilled meats The tanginess helps cut through fatty dishes making meals feel lighter and brighter This tradition of pairing sharp fresh vegetables with heavier foods runs deep in many Middle Eastern cuisines and is one of my favorite ways to round out a special meal
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you reduce the strong flavor of raw onions?
Soak the sliced red onions in cold water for about 20 minutes, then drain and pat them dry before mixing with the other ingredients. This helps mellow their sharpness.
- → Can you make sumac onions ahead of time?
Yes, sumac onions can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator. They taste even better after chilling for 30 minutes, as the flavors further meld.
- → What dishes pair well with sumac onions?
Sumac onions are excellent with grilled meats, kabobs, roasted vegetables, or as a topping for flatbreads and salads.
- → Does the type of onion make a difference?
Red onions are preferred for their mild flavor and appealing color, but yellow or sweet onions can also be used as alternatives.
- → How do you store leftover sumac onions?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir before serving.