Sumac Cucumbers

Sumac Cucumbers is a fresh Middle Eastern salad with vibrant citrusy flavours. So good and refreshing as a salad or side. 

This sumac cucumber salad is a blend of fresh cucumbers and tangy sumac that really elevates any meal.

Hailing from Mediterranean cuisine, this delicious salad is versatile and very fresh, perfect for summer.

You may also enjoy this cucumber beet salad, cucumber, tomato salad, avocado cucumber salad, summer cucumber radish salad and creamy avocado cucumber salad.

I also love this chickpea cucumber salad, carrot and cabbage slaw without mayo, sprouted lentil salad, Indian carrot salad and Kala chana salad.

Ingredients

1. Cucumbers: Cucumbers are the heart of this salad. Their satisfying crunch and refreshing taste lend the salad its deliciousness.

2. Sumac: One tablespoon of sumac introduces a lovely tang and a bright red colour, lending a zesty Mediterranean twist to the cucumber base.

3. Olive Oil: A tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil ties the salad together, introducing a robust taste to the salad.

4. Salt and Pepper: The essential seasoning that every salad craves.

5. Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, to the measure of one tablespoon brings a bright acidity to this salad.

6. Minced Garlic: I personally love garlic in Middle Eastern salads for their taste.

7. Mint Leaves: A handful of freshly chopped mint leaves serve as the final garnish.

8. Olives: I love the burst of saltiness from olives in this salad.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Herb Alternatives: While the recipe uses mint, you might opt for parsley or dill. 

2. Add Creaminess: For those who have a palate for creamier textures, introducing a dollop of cashew yogurt/Greek yogurt or tahini to the salad can be very satisfying.

3. Spice Variations: Sumac can be replaced with Za'atar for a more complex, herby flavor. 

4. Cheese Addition: Crumble in some feta cheese (dairy or plant-based) for an extra layer of creaminess and a touch of briny flavor.

5. Add Heat: If you prefer a hint of heat in your salads, a sprinkle of chilli flakes can bring a subtle kick that balances the cool cucumbers.

Instructions

Wash and dry the cucumbers. As I used Persian cucumbers, I left the skin on.

If you are using larger cucumbers with thicker skin, peel them.

Cut each cucumber into half and then into half moons.

Place cucumber slices in a bowl.

Sprinkle salt and pepper along with minced garlic on the cucumbers.

Add extra virgin olive oil and mix well.

Now add the sumac along with lemon juice and mix well.

Add in the olives. Mix well.

Garnish with chopped mint leaves and serve immediately.

Your sumac cucumbers are ready.

Comes together in under 10 minutes. You can chill the cucumbers before chopping them.

Serving Suggestions

1. Pairing with Grilled Proteins: Serve sumac cucumbers alongside grilled tofu, paneer or meats of choice.

2. Accompaniment to Spicy Dishes: If you're serving spicy foods, the cool and refreshing cucumber salad acts as a perfect counterbalance. 

It tames the heat while adding a burst of fresh flavors.

3. Pairing with meal: Sumac cucumbers can be a delightful accompaniment to hearty meal. 

Try pairing it with a falafel or a nutrient-rich quinoa dish for a satisfying, wholesome meal.

4. For the BBQ Lovers: At your next barbecue, serve sumac cucumber salad as a side. 

Its fresh and tangy flavors offer a welcome respite from the smoky and often heavy barbecue dishes.

Expert Tips for Making Sumac Cucumbers

1. Cucumber Selection: Choose firm fresh cucumbers that are tender. Persian or English cucumbers work very well.

2. Chopping: When chopping the cucumbers, aim for uniform slices. 

This ensures consistent texture and flavor in each bite.

3. Fresh Sumac: Always opt for fresh and high-quality sumac. 

It provides a superior tangy flavor and vibrant color. Ground sumac is usually readily available in the spice section of most supermarkets.
4. Balancing Flavors: Adjust the lemon juice, sumac, salt, and olive oil to taste. 

Strive for a balance between the tanginess, saltiness, and the fruity undertone provided by the oil.

5. Time of Assembly: Assemble the salad close to serving time to maintain the crunchiness of the cucumbers. 

If prepared too far in advance, cucumbers may release their water content and make the salad watery.

Storage Tips

If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. 

While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, it can last up to a day when properly stored.

However, note that the cucumbers will continue to lose their crispness over time.

FAQs

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📖 Recipe Card

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