Looking for a vibrant yet easy addition to your meals that packs a punch of fresh flavors? Consider this delightful Palestinian Salad.
Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s ideal for hectic weeknights or as a refreshing side for your weekend barbecues.
Serving up to four people, this salad features crisp vegetables combined with zesty lemon and aromatic seasonings, making it a colorful and nutritious choice for any occasion.
Palestinian Salad Recipe
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Equipment Needed: Large mixing bowl, knife, cutting board, spoon for mixing
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 large cucumber, finely diced
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced
- (Optional) 1 bell pepper (any color), finely diced (reduce or omit for a more traditional flavor)
- Juice from 1 lemon (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- (Optional) ½ – 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the finely diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and (if using) bell pepper.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped fresh parsley and (if using) fresh mint to the bowl.
Step 3: Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the vegetables, tossing everything well to ensure even coating.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Step 5: Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with This Recipe
- Grilled Meats: Complements grilled chicken, lamb, or fish beautifully.
- Hummus & Pita: Serve alongside hummus and warm pita bread for a classic Middle Eastern pairing.
- Rice or Quinoa: A great side dish for grain bowls or a light meal.
- Falafel: Adds a hearty, plant-based option that pairs well with the fresh flavors of the salad.
Variations on This Recipe
- Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herb Boost: Swap Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like parsley, mint, or cilantro for a vibrant touch.
- Cheesy Twist: Crumble in some feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
- Protein-Packed: Toss in chickpeas or grilled chicken for a more filling dish.
Pro Tips
- De-seed the tomatoes before dicing to prevent excess water from diluting the dressing.
- Massage the onions with a bit of salt and lemon juice to mellow their sharpness before adding them to the salad.
- Chill before serving for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors fully develop.
- Use a mix of bell pepper colors to create a visually stunning and flavorful dish.
Final Thoughts
This Palestinian Salad is a celebration of freshness, color, and crunch. It’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, it brings a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your table. Try experimenting with different ingredients and make it uniquely yours!
Print Palestinian Salad
This Palestinian Salad is a wonderful way to boost your vegetable intake while savoring the fresh, bright tastes of the Mediterranean. Whether you pair it with grilled meats or include it in a vegetarian spread, it’s sure to impress!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 large cucumber, finely diced
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced
- (Optional) 1 bell pepper (any color), finely diced (reduce or omit for a more traditional flavor)
- Juice from 1 lemon (adjust to taste)
- 1–2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- (Optional) ½ – 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the finely diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and (if using) bell pepper.
- Step 2: Add the finely chopped fresh parsley and (if using) fresh mint to the bowl.
- Step 3: Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the vegetables, tossing everything well to ensure even coating.
- Step 4: Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Step 5: Enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor, or chill for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
