Name: Lebanese Tomato Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 2 lb campari tomatoes; 1 large red bell pepper; 4 garlic cloves, peeled; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon sumac; 4 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; ¼ cup parsley, chopped

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Lebanese Tomato Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish made with juicy tomatoes, garlic, sumac, and parsley. Tossed in a smoky, zesty dressing with paprika and olive oil, this salad is the perfect side to grilled meats, kebabs, or Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. It’s quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and a wonderful way to highlight ripe tomatoes.

Lebanese Tomato Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bright and refreshing: Fresh tomatoes and parsley balance the smoky and tangy dressing.
Quick to prepare: Ready in just 10 minutes, plus a short chill time for flavor.
Authentic flavor: Sumac adds a citrusy tang that’s signature to Lebanese cuisine.
Healthy and light: Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and heart-healthy olive oil.
Versatile side dish: Complements grilled meats, falafel, or can be enjoyed on its own with bread.

ingredients

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

2 lb campari tomatoes
1 large red bell pepper
4 garlic cloves, peeled
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon sumac
4 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup parsley, chopped

directions

Prepare tomatoes: Cut tomatoes into quarters and place in a large mixing bowl.
Make dressing base: Cut the red bell pepper into quarters, discarding stem and seeds. In a food processor, blend the pepper and garlic into a paste.
Mix dressing: Transfer the pepper-garlic paste to a bowl. Add smoked paprika, sumac, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir until well combined.
Combine salad: Pour the dressing over the tomatoes and toss gently to coat. Stir in the chopped parsley.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve: Transfer to a serving bowl and enjoy as a refreshing side dish.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the dressing.
Herb swap: Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro or mint for a different twist.
Tomato mix: Use a blend of cherry, heirloom, or grape tomatoes for added color and sweetness.
Nutty flavor: Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving.
Vegan mezze style: Serve with hummus, baba ganoush, and flatbread for a complete spread.

storage/reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The tomatoes will release juices as they sit, so stir before serving. This dish should not be reheated.

FAQs

What is sumac and where can I find it?

Sumac is a tangy, lemony Middle Eastern spice made from dried berries. It’s available in most supermarkets or specialty spice shops.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just chill and let the flavors meld, but don’t prepare too far ahead as the tomatoes can become watery.

What type of tomatoes work best?

Campari tomatoes are ideal, but Roma, cherry, or heirloom varieties also work well. Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for best flavor.

Can I use green bell pepper instead of red?

Yes, but red bell pepper adds natural sweetness that balances the smoky and tangy dressing.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

What can I serve this with?

It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, kebabs, falafel, or warm pita bread.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No, the skins add texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer a smoother bite.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Yes, crumbled feta or labneh makes a creamy, tangy addition.

How do I keep the salad from being too watery?

Use firm tomatoes and chill briefly before serving. Avoid overmixing.

Can I freeze this salad?

No, tomatoes do not freeze well for fresh salads. Enjoy it fresh or chilled.

Conclusion

Lebanese Tomato Salad is a simple yet bold dish that brings Mediterranean flavors to your table. With juicy tomatoes, smoky paprika, tangy sumac, and fresh parsley, it’s light, refreshing, and versatile. Perfect as a side for grilled dishes or as part of a mezze spread, this salad is both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.