Lebanese Tomato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Lebanese Tomato Salad is a celebration of freshness and flavor. The combination of sweet Campari tomatoes, crunchy red bell pepper, and aromatic garlic creates a delightful balance of textures. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while the sumac gives the salad a zesty, citrusy punch. With a handful of fresh parsley for a herby finish, this salad is not only quick to prepare but also light and satisfying. It’s a great accompaniment to grilled meats, pita bread, or as a refreshing standalone dish.

Ingredients

• 2 lb Campari tomatoes
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon sumac
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by washing and slicing the Campari tomatoes into bite-sized wedges. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips. Crush the garlic cloves using the side of a knife, but don’t chop them too finely, as you want the garlic to infuse the salad with flavor without overwhelming it.
2. Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced tomatoes, bell pepper, and garlic. Toss gently to mix.
3. Season the Salad: Add the smoked paprika, sumac, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss everything together until well-coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or sumac if desired.
4. Add Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top of the salad and give it a final toss.
5. Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving dish and enjoy immediately, or chill for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

1. Add a Protein: You can make this salad a more substantial meal by adding grilled chicken, lamb, or falafel for extra protein.
2. Cucumber Addition: Add diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness.
3. Olives: Throw in some black or green olives to give the salad a briny, Mediterranean twist.
4. Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese adds a salty, creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the fresh vegetables.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Lebanese Tomato Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.
• Reheating: This salad is best served fresh and cold. Avoid reheating as it could alter the texture of the tomatoes and bell pepper.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tomatoes for this salad?

While Campari tomatoes are ideal for their sweetness and texture, you can substitute them with Roma or heirloom tomatoes if needed. Just be sure to choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this salad up to 2 hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors marinate, but don’t add the parsley until just before serving to keep it fresh.

Is sumac essential to this recipe?

Sumac adds a unique tangy flavor to the salad, but if you can’t find it, you can substitute with a little lemon juice or lemon zest for a similar effect.

Can I use any type of bell pepper?

While red bell peppers provide sweetness and color, you can use yellow, orange, or even green bell peppers for a different flavor profile.

Can I add more spice to this salad?

If you like a little heat, you can add chopped fresh chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the salad a spicy kick.

How long will the salad stay fresh in the fridge?

The salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge, but the tomatoes and bell pepper may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.

Can I make this salad without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can omit it or substitute it with a small amount of garlic powder to still get that garlicky undertone.

Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

Fresh parsley is recommended for its vibrant color and flavor, but if you must use dried parsley, you can substitute about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley for the fresh.

Can I add nuts to this salad?

Yes, roasted pine nuts or chopped almonds can add a nice crunch to the salad, making it even more interesting.

Is this salad vegan-friendly?

Yes, this Lebanese Tomato Salad is completely vegan, making it a great option for plant-based diets.

Conclusion

The Lebanese Tomato Salad is a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for anyone who loves fresh, vibrant flavors. The combination of juicy tomatoes, crunchy bell pepper, aromatic garlic, and tangy sumac creates a refreshing salad that pairs well with a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or a pre-meal starter, this salad is sure to brighten up your table and satisfy your taste buds!

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