Lebanese Tomato Salad Recipe
Sometimes it’s the simplest dishes that capture our hearts—and palates—the most, and Lebanese Tomato Salad is living proof. This gorgeous salad bursts with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and all the sunny fragrance of fresh herbs, tied together with a punchy olive oil-lemon dressing and a whisper of sumac. Bright, tangy, and so refreshingly honest, it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty meant for sharing. Whether you’re plating it as a hearty side, starring it on your mezze platter, or just spooning it up with warm flatbread, this dish delivers pure, Mediterranean goodness in every single bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Lebanese Tomato Salad is in its irresistible simplicity—you’ll find these humble ingredients combine to create something truly magical. Each element brings its own note: from the pop of the tomatoes to the zesty lift of lemon and the earthy depth of sumac, nothing is here by accident.
- Tomatoes: Use the ripest, juiciest large tomatoes you can find for a salad that truly shines.
- Cucumber: Refreshing and crunchy, cucumber balances the brightness of the tomatoes.
- Red Onion: Thinly sliced, it adds a mild bite and beautiful color contrast.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley lends an herby, vivid green note and a burst of freshness.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: This hint of mint transforms the flavor and aroma, making things extra lively.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Fruity and rich, it’s the liquid gold that ties everything together.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: The zesty tang brightens up every bite and keeps the salad vibrant.
- Sumac: A classic Middle Eastern spice, sumac delivers a subtle, lemony zing that’s signature to this salad.
- Salt: It’s an essential flavor booster that lets all the ingredients sing.
- Black Pepper: Just enough to add a gentle warmth and depth.
How to Make Lebanese Tomato Salad
Step 1: Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Take a few extra minutes here—this is your moment! Chop the tomatoes into generous, bite-sized pieces, dice the cucumber for crunch, and slice that red onion thin for a mild sharpness. Fresh herbs should be washed, dried, and chopped right before assembling to keep their color and aroma at their best.
Step 2: Build the Salad Base
Place the chopped tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion into a large, roomy mixing bowl. Toss in the freshly chopped parsley and mint. You’ll already notice the colors and fragrances mingling—this is the start of Lebanese Tomato Salad magic!
Step 3: Whisk Up the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together your extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sumac, salt, and black pepper. The goal is a harmonious dressing that’s a little tangy, a little savory, and oh-so inviting. Give it a taste—adjust the seasoning if you like.
Step 4: Toss and Rest
Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and herbs. Using gentle hands (or two big spoons), toss everything to combine. Make sure every tomato and cucumber gets a little of that golden dressing. To let the flavors meld and the salad taste its best, let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Transfer the salad to your favorite serving bowl or platter. Just before serving, give it one last quick toss. Lebanese Tomato Salad is meant to be enjoyed fresh, but a short stint in the fridge before serving can make it extra crisp and refreshing.
How to Serve Lebanese Tomato Salad
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped herbs (think parsley or mint) on top makes this salad look even more inviting. If you want to make it pop, a few thinly sliced radishes or a dusting of extra sumac can add vibrant color and extra tang.
Side Dishes
Lebanese Tomato Salad is a perfect companion to grilled meats like kebabs, juicy chicken, or lamb chops. It’s a brilliant addition to a mezze spread, nested between bowls of creamy hummus and smoky baba ghanoush, or even alongside warm, pillowy pita.
Creative Ways to Present
Try building bite-sized versions on little toasts or serving in individual glass bowls for an elegant start to a dinner party. This salad is also delicious spooned onto a bed of labneh or wrapped up in lettuce leaves for a refreshing, finger-food twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Lebanese Tomato Salad, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to two days. The flavors will continue to mingle, though you may notice some extra juices—just give it a gentle stir before serving.
Freezing
This isn’t a salad that loves the freezer—fresh tomatoes and cucumber can lose their texture once thawed. For the best experience, enjoy Lebanese Tomato Salad fresh or chilled within a couple of days.
Reheating
No reheating needed! Lebanese Tomato Salad is best served cold or at room temperature, straight from the fridge or freshly made. Just let it sit out for a few minutes if you want to take the chill off.
FAQs
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of large tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes bring a delightful sweetness and look beautiful in Lebanese Tomato Salad. Just halve or quarter them for easy eating.
What can I substitute for sumac if I don’t have it?
While sumac is traditional and gives that special tartness, a tiny splash of red wine vinegar or extra lemon zest can mimic the flavor in a pinch.
How can I make Lebanese Tomato Salad in advance?
Chop the vegetables and mix the dressing separately up to a few hours ahead. Combine everything just before guests arrive and let it rest for flavor melding—easy and stress-free!
Is this salad suitable for special diets?
Yes! Lebanese Tomato Salad is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with Mediterranean goodness, making it a friendly option for many types of eaters.
Can I add other vegetables or extras?
Of course—thinly sliced radishes, diced green peppers, or even a crumble of feta are delicious additions if you want to tweak the classic recipe to suit your taste or what’s in your fridge.
Final Thoughts
Once you try Lebanese Tomato Salad, you’ll find yourself craving its bright, fresh flavors all summer long. The next time you gather friends or simply want a quick splash of color at the table, this effortless recipe is sure to delight. Give it a try, and watch it become your own favorite go-to salad!
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Lebanese Tomato Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and vibrant Lebanese Tomato Salad featuring ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs tossed in a zesty sumac-spiced dressing. This salad is a perfect side dish for any meal and a great addition to a Mediterranean spread.
Ingredients
Salad:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sumac
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Vegetables: Place tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl. Add parsley and mint.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper.
- Toss: Pour dressing over vegetables, toss gently to combine.
- Rest: Let salad rest for 10 minutes to meld flavors before serving.
Notes
- For extra freshness, refrigerate the salad for 20 minutes before serving.
- You can add sliced radishes or green peppers for variety.
- Serve alongside grilled meats, kabobs, or as part of a mezze platter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad, Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 cup
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
