Turkish Onion Salad Recipe – Turkey Special
Enjoy this vibrant turkish onion salad, also known as sumac onions, a beloved meze side in traditional Turkish cuisine. Thinly sliced onions become mellowed and flavorful as marinated onions infused with lemon juice, olive oil, and the distinctive tang of sumac. This tangy condiment elevates grilled meats, kebabs, or mezze spreads with its refreshing zing and effortless preparation.
- Prep Time5 min
- Total Time5 min
Turkish Onion Salad Ingredients:
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 1-2 tbsp sumac (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How to make Turkish Onion Salad :
Slice the Onions:Thinly slice the onions and place them in a bowl. To reduce the sharpness, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10-15 minutes, then drain them well.
Season the Onions:Sprinkle the sumac, salt, and optional black pepper over the onions. Add the olive oil and lemon juice.
Toss and Massage:Toss everything together, massaging the onions gently with your hands to help release their juices and infuse the flavors. This also helps soften the onions a bit.
Let it Rest:Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. You can also refrigerate it for 30 minutes if you prefer it colder.
Garnish and Serve:Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve as a side dish or accompaniment to your meal.
Recipe Notes:
Prep Time: Ready in just 5 minutes—perfect for quick meal prep.
Soaking Onions: To reduce sharpness, soak onions in cold water for 10–15 minutes, then drain thoroughly before seasoning.
Storage Tips: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a few hours or overnight—flavors deepen with time.
Variations: For a flavor twist, try adding a pinch of black pepper, or swap part of the lemon juice with red wine vinegar for a slightly different tang.
