why make this recipe
This salad is fresh, simple, and fast. It uses common vegetables and herbs. You get bright flavors with little work. It pairs well with grilled meats or as a light meal.
introduction
Arabic Chopped Salad is a classic, fresh mix of tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, onion, parsley, and mint. It tastes bright from lemon and olive oil and shows off simple ingredients. For a sweet finish after this salad, try the Snickers caramel apple salad.
how to make Arabic Chopped Salad
- Wash and dry all vegetables and herbs.
- Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Put the vegetables and herbs in a large bowl.
- Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Let the salad sit about 10 minutes so the flavors mix. Serve fresh.
Ingredients :
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and mint. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve fresh as a side dish.
how to serve Arabic Chopped Salad
Serve cold or at room temperature. Use it as a side for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. Spoon it over pita or rice for a light meal. It also works well on top of falafel or with hummus.
how to store Arabic Chopped Salad
Keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat within 1–2 days for best texture. If you expect leftovers, store the dressing separately and toss just before serving.
tips to make Arabic Chopped Salad
- Use ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Chop vegetables to about the same size so each bite is balanced.
- Let the salad rest 10 minutes before serving to blend flavors.
- Taste and adjust lemon, salt, or oil at the end.
- Use fresh herbs for a bright, clean taste.
variation (if any)
- Add diced avocado for creaminess.
- Add a splash of pomegranate molasses for a sweet-tart note.
- Mix in crumbled feta for a salty touch.
- Add chopped cucumber skin for more crunch, or peel if you prefer softer bites.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: You can chop ingredients ahead, but mix dressing later. Dress just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Fresh herbs work best. Dried herbs will not give the same bright flavor.
Q: Is this salad vegan?
A: Yes. The basic recipe is vegan and gluten-free.
Q: Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
A: Yes. Add cooked chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tuna for more protein.
Q: How can I keep the salad from getting watery?
A: Remove tomato seeds or drain excess liquid from tomatoes before mixing. Keep dressing separate until serving if needed.
Arabic Chopped Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A fresh and simple salad with tomatoes, cucumber, peppers, onion, parsley, and mint, dressed with lemon and olive oil.
Ingredients
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and dry all vegetables and herbs.
- Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper. Finely chop the red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Put the vegetables and herbs in a large bowl.
- Whisk lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently.
- Let the salad sit about 10 minutes so the flavors mix. Serve fresh.
Notes
Use ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs for the best flavor. Adjust lemon, salt, or oil to taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg