Description

Sumac Cucumbers are a refreshing and zesty Middle Eastern side dish featuring thinly sliced cucumbers tossed with extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, and tangy ground sumac. This simple, no-cook salad is light, vibrant, and perfect to accompany grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or Mediterranean meals. Garnished with fresh parsley or dill, it offers a delightful combination of crisp textures and bold flavors that come together in just 10 minutes.

Ingredients

3 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons ground sumac
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Cucumbers: Thinly slice the 3 large cucumbers using a sharp knife or a mandoline for uniform slices. Place the slices into a medium-sized mixing bowl.
Add Dressing Ingredients: Drizzle the cucumbers with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to provide a fresh and tangy base.
Season with Spices: Sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground sumac, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper over the cucumbers for that distinctive zesty flavor.
Toss the Salad: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the cucumber slices are evenly coated with the dressing and spices, ensuring balanced flavor throughout the salad.
Chill (Optional): For enhanced flavor melding, chill the salad in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, though it can be served immediately if preferred.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley or dill on top to add freshness and a burst of color to your sumac cucumbers.

Notes

Use English or Persian cucumbers as they are crisper and have fewer seeds, making for a better texture and flavor.
This salad pairs excellently with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and is a fantastic accompaniment to Mediterranean or Middle Eastern dishes.
For a bit of extra crunch, consider adding thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts.
If sumac is unavailable, a mixture of lemon zest and a pinch of paprika can be a substitute, though the unique tang of sumac is ideal.