Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sumac Onions (Turkish Onion Salad)

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

These Turkish-style sumac onions are tangy, fresh, and full of vibrant flavor. Thinly sliced red onions are tossed with sumac, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, and vinegar to create a refreshing onion salad that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, wraps, sandwiches, and rice dishes.

  • Total Time: 4 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups thinly sliced red onions
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons sumac
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Optional Additions:
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses
  • Fresh mint or cilantro instead of parsley

Instructions

  1. Peel the red onions and slice them into thin, even strips.
  2. If the onions are very sharp, soak them in cold water for 15 minutes, then drain and gently squeeze out excess water.
  3. Add the sliced onions and chopped parsley to a medium mixing bowl.
  4. Pour in the olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar.
  5. Sprinkle in the sumac, salt, and sugar.
  6. Using clean hands, gently massage the onions for 1 to 2 minutes until softened slightly and evenly coated.
  7. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
  8. Serve chilled or at room temperature with kebabs, grilled meats, wraps, sandwiches, rice dishes, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • Soaking the onions in cold water helps reduce sharpness while keeping them crisp.
  • Massaging the onions helps soften them and improves flavor absorption.
  • Fresh mint or cilantro can be used instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
  • Add pomegranate molasses for extra tangy sweetness.
  • Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper add a spicy kick.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature.
  • Avoid freezing because the onions may lose their crisp texture.
  • Author: Amelia
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Turkish
  • Diet: Vegan

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 75
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg