Sumac Onions (Marinated Onion Salad)
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Additional Time
30 mins
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Total Time
35 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
12 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Condiments
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Cuisine
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Sumac Onions (Marinated Onion Salad)
Description
The recipe begins by slicing a red onion thinly into half-moon shapes, then soaking the slices in cold water for 10 to 30 minutes to reduce pungency and crisp the onions. After draining thoroughly, the onions are mixed with lemon juice, sumac spice, and salt, then massaged to evenly coat and infuse the flavors. Allowing the salad to rest at least 20 minutes lets the sumac marinade permeate the onion, mellowing and brightening the flavor.
Sumac onions deliver a balance of tart citrus, mild onion sweetness, and a hint of earthy spice. They add freshness and a gentle sharpness without overpowering other dishes. This preparation holds well in the refrigerator for several days in an airtight container, maintaining its flavor and texture.
Sumac Onions suit a range of uses including as a topping for grilled meats, falafel, rice bowls, or as a vibrant side in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean meals. They provide a simple way to brighten plates with minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation.
The total preparation time is short, with resting time allowing the flavors to develop fully.
Ingredients
- 1 red onion
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cut the red onion in half. Then slice it into thin half-moons – I like to use a mandolin for even slices, but you can use a sharp knife. Place the red onion slices in a bowl of cold water and leave for at least 10 minutes (up to 30 minutes).
- Thoroughly drain the sliced onions and mix them with the rest of the ingredients. Use your hands to massage the sumac into the onions.
- Set the red onion salad aside for the sumac marinade to do its magic. Leave it for at least 20 minutes before serving.
- Transfer leftover sumac onions to a non-reactive airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Notes
- Soaking sliced onions in cold water reduces sharpness and softens their texture.
- Massaging sumac into the onions helps distribute flavor evenly.
- Let the marinated onions rest at least 20 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- Store leftover sumac onions in a non-reactive airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This salad requires minimal effort and is mostly hands-off during marination time.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 12 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 12kcal | 1% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 0.3g | 1% |
| Fat | 0.04g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.02g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.01g | 0% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0.003g | 0% |
| Sodium | 74mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 44mg | 1% |
| Fiber | 0.5g | 2% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 1IU | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Calcium | 7mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.1mg | 1% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.