Syrian Salad
Description
Syrian Salad, also known as Salata Arabiya, is a fresh, vibrant, and refreshing Middle Eastern dish made with finely chopped vegetables, herbs, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing. Light, crunchy, and full of flavor, this salad is a staple in Syrian cuisine and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, wraps, or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cucumbers (finely diced)
- 2 cups tomatoes (finely diced)
- 1/2 green bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 1/4 red onion (finely chopped)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1–2 tbsp fresh mint (optional, finely chopped)
Dressing:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp sumac (optional but authentic)
Instructions
1. Prepare Vegetables
Finely dice cucumbers, tomatoes, bell pepper, and onion. Add to a large bowl.
2. Add Herbs
Mix in chopped parsley and mint.
3. Make Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and sumac.
4. Combine
Pour dressing over salad and toss gently until well coated.
5. Serve
Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Finely chopping vegetables gives authentic texture
- Use fresh lemon juice for best taste
- Best eaten fresh for maximum crunch
Tips
- Add pomegranate seeds for a sweet twist
- Serve with pita bread or grilled meats
- Use English cucumbers for less water content
- Chill ingredients before mixing for extra freshness
Servings
- Serves: 3–4 people
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving approx.)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Health Benefits
- Low Calorie: Great for weight management
- Rich in Vitamins: Supports immunity
- Hydrating: High water content from veggies
- Heart Healthy: Olive oil provides good fats
- Digestive Support: Fiber aids digestion
Q&A
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, but add dressing just before serving for freshness.
Q: What is sumac?
A: A tangy Middle Eastern spice that adds citrusy flavor.
Q: Can I skip mint?
A: Yes, it’s optional but adds freshness.
Q: What pairs well with this salad?
A: Grilled chicken, kebabs, shawarma, or wraps.
Q: How long does it last?
A: Best fresh, but can be stored up to 1 day in the fridge.