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This tomato salad takes me straight back to sunny terraces in Beirut. I learned it during a trip with my Lebanese friend who shared all her kitchen secrets with me. The freshness of tomatoes mixed with spice aromas feels like having a little piece of Mediterranean on your plate. It's truly a burst of sunshine brightening up my summer meals.
Enchanting Levant flavors
What makes this salad special is the perfect balance between juicy Campari tomatoes and my red pepper dressing. Adding sumac and smoked paprika gives it that unique twist that always amazes my guests. When I make it, my kitchen fills with scents reminding me of Lebanese markets.
My little Eastern bazaar
- The heroes: Ripe Campari tomatoes picked for their sweet taste
- The must-have: A large red pepper to give body to the sauce
- The kick: Aromatic garlic cloves
- My spice treasures: Smoked paprika and sumac I brought back from Lebanon
- The liquid gold: My finest olive oil to enhance everything
- The green touch: Fresh parsley from my small garden
- The basics: Salt and freshly ground pepper for balance
Step-by-step approach
- The fresh foundation
- I cut my tomatoes into even wedges so they soak up the sauce nicely.
- The sauce magic
- In my blender I turn my pepper and garlic into a silky sauce. I mix in my spices and olive oil until everything comes together smoothly.
- The perfect union
- I pour my sauce over the tomatoes, gently toss them, then add my parsley.
- Resting time
- Patience matters here. I let the flavors mingle for about thirty minutes.
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Tasting moment
I serve my salad in my pretty Lebanese ceramic dish. For a complete feast, I make warm homemade pita bread. It's wonderful with grilled meats or just as a cool starter on a summer evening. My friends always ask for seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Where can I find sumac?
- Sumac is sold at Middle Eastern stores or spice aisles in some supermarkets. If unavailable, grated lemon zest works as a tangy substitute.
- → Can I make this salad ahead of time?
- Yes, prepare it up to 4 hours in advance. Let the flavors meld in the fridge and toss the parsley in right before serving.
- → What tomatoes should I substitute if Campari isn't available?
- You can use Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes. Just make sure they're ripe and firm for the best taste.
- → Is the dressing spicy?
- Not at all! It's more smoky and flavorful due to the paprika. Adjust the garlic amount if you prefer.
- → How can I serve this salad?
- It's great as a starter or side dish. Serve it with pita bread, or pair it with grilled meats and falafel.