These Sumac Cucumbers are a refreshing, tangy treat perfect for any meal! With crisp cucumbers and a sprinkle of zesty sumac, they add a burst of flavor that will make you smile.
What I love most is how easy they are to make! Just chop, mix, and serve. They brighten up any plate and are great as a quick snack or side dish! 🌱🥒
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Use large, firm cucumbers for the best crunch. English cucumbers are perfect, but you can also use regular cucumbers. If you prefer a sweeter taste, try seedless cucumbers.
Sumac: This is the star ingredient, adding a tangy flavor. If you can’t find sumac, lemon zest or a little vinegar could provide some brightness in a pinch, although the flavor won’t be identical.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is essential for freshness. I love adding mint for an extra layer of flavor, but if you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out or substitute with basil for a different twist.
Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: Extra virgin olive oil enhances the dish’s richness. For a lighter taste, you could use a lighter olive oil or avocado oil. Fresh lemon juice is best, but bottled will work too in a rush.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add heat, but you can easily skip them or replace them with freshly chopped chili or even paprika for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Dressing?
The dressing is simple, but it’s what brings all the ingredients together. Start by whisking the olive oil and lemon juice until they blend well. Then, add the sumac and salt gradually.
- Mixing the olive oil and lemon juice first keeps the flavors balanced.
- Add the sumac slowly and taste as you go; it’s better to add than to take away!
- Letting the salad sit for about 10 minutes allows the flavors to develop nicely. During this time, the cucumbers will soak up the dressing.
Don’t forget to taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. Adjusting the seasoning can make a huge difference!
How to Make Sumac Cucumbers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 tablespoon sumac
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Sumac Cucumbers salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and a little time to let the flavors blend. Just mix, let sit, and serve—it’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers and Herbs:
Start by slicing your cucumbers thinly. Place the sliced cucumbers in a large bowl. Next, add the chopped parsley. If you’re using mint for extra flavor, chop it up and toss it in as well. It’s all about fresh ingredients!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, and a pinch of salt. Whisk it until everything is nicely combined, and you can smell that lovely sumac aroma!
3. Combine Everything:
Now, pour the dressing over your cucumber and herb mixture. Use a gentle hand to toss everything together so that the dressings coat all the cucumbers and herbs evenly. Feel free to taste as you go!
4. Adjust the Flavors:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs a little more salt or sumac, add it in now. For those who enjoy a little kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
5. Let It Rest:
Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors blend beautifully, making each bite delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Sumac Cucumbers are now ready to enjoy! You can serve it chilled or at room temperature. It makes a perfect side dish for any meal. Enjoy this refreshing treat!
Can I Use Other Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! While English cucumbers are recommended for their mild flavor and thin skin, you can use Persian or regular garden cucumbers as well. Just be sure to peel and deseed the larger varieties if they’re particularly seedy, as this will improve the salad’s texture.
How to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the cucumbers may release some water over time, so give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can make this salad a few hours ahead of time! Just prepare it as directed, but leave out the dressing until you’re ready to serve. This will keep the cucumbers crisp and fresh.
What Can I Substitute for Sumac?
If you don’t have sumac on hand, try substituting lemon zest mixed with a bit of salt. This will give a similar tangy flavor profile. Alternatively, you can use a small amount of lemon juice for brightness, but adjust to taste as it will alter the overall balance of flavors.
