Hey there, my friend 👋. This Middle Eastern salad is the fresh, crunchy, and herby dish you need in your life. The lemony mint dressing? Oh, it’s a game-changer.
It’s light, refreshing, and packed with bold flavors. Perfect for when you want something healthy but still exciting. Let’s get into it.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils you need to make this recipe:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl (for the dressing)
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Salad tongs
Important Info
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Estimated Cost: Around $8 to $12, depending on ingredient availability
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: No cooking required
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Calories per Serving: About 220 kcal
- Cook Method: No-Cooking Required
- Season: Best for Spring and Summer
- Courses: Salad, Side Dish
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diets: VegetarianDiet, VeganDiet, GlutenFreeDiet, DairyFreeDiet, LowCalorieDiet
How to Make Middle Eastern Salad with Lemony Mint Dressing
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this delicacy and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
For the Salad
- 2 cups chopped cucumbers (Persian or English)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)
For the Lemony Mint Dressing
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
- 1 tsp sumac (optional but adds tanginess)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Ingredient | Alternative |
|---|---|
| Persian cucumbers | Regular cucumbers (peeled and deseeded) |
| Cherry tomatoes | Diced Roma tomatoes |
| Red onion | Green onions or shallots |
| Fresh parsley | Cilantro or dill |
| Fresh mint | Basil |
| Chickpeas | White beans or lentils |
| Sumac | Lemon zest + a pinch of paprika |
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, parsley, mint, and chickpeas. Toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped mint, sumac, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve fresh and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
- If you like a stronger mint flavor, let the dressing sit for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad.
- Use firm cucumbers for the best crunch.
- Want extra protein? Add grilled chicken or tofu.
- If sumac isn’t available, a mix of lemon zest and paprika gives a similar effect.
- Make sure your herbs are fresh—dried mint won’t give the same pop of flavor.
What to Serve with Middle Eastern Salad with Lemony Mint Dressing
This salad is great on its own, but if you want a full meal, try pairing it with:
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Warm pita bread
- Hummus and falafel
- Roasted eggplant
- Couscous or quinoa
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
This salad is best served in a chilled bowl. If you’re making it for guests, garnish with a few whole mint leaves on top for a fancy touch.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
This salad is perfect for:
- Picnics – Stays fresh and doesn’t get soggy.
- Summer BBQs – Light and refreshing.
- Lunch meal prep – Keeps well in the fridge.
- Ramadan iftar – A great way to break the fast.
Storage
Short-term Storage (Room Temperature)
- This salad is best eaten fresh. If needed, you can leave it at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigeration
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- If storing, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
- Do not freeze this salad. The fresh vegetables and herbs won’t hold up well after thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, store the chopped veggies and dressing separately. Mix them just before serving.
Is this salad spicy?
No, but if you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Can I use dried mint instead of fresh?
I wouldn’t recommend it. Fresh mint gives a bright, fresh taste that dried mint just can’t match.
What can I use instead of chickpeas?
You can swap them for white beans, black beans, or even cooked lentils.
How do I make this a full meal?
Add grilled chicken, feta cheese, or some quinoa for extra protein and carbs.
Meta Description
Middle Eastern Salad with Lemony Mint Dressing Recipe – a fresh, vibrant salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, chickpeas, and a tangy mint dressing. Quick and easy!