Easy Sumac Onions (Marinated Red Onions)

Crisp and vibrant, these sumac onions are a healthful condiment that infuses dishes with a burst of tangy flavor. They are simple to prepare and elevate your meals by adding prebiotic fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants.

My first encounter with sumac onions

In 2008, after relocating to Dubai, I was introduced to sumac onions at a delightful Lebanese restaurant next to our office—our go-to spot for lunch.

One salad I particularly enjoyed combined rucola (or arugula) with red onions, generously seasoned with a mysterious red powder. The tangy flavor of this dish intrigued me. It wasn’t until I asked some of my colleagues that I learned the name of this vibrant spice: sumac.

What is sumac?

Sumac is a deep-red spice derived from the berries of the wild sumac shrub, native to the Middle East. Its bold, tangy flavor, with hints of lemon and tartness, has been cherished in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines for centuries.

Ground into a fine powder, sumac not only adds a zesty kick to dishes but also graces them with its vibrant hue, a feast for both the eye and the palate.

Beyond its culinary appeal, sumac is also revered for its health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it’s believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.

Traditionally, many cultures have also turned to sumac as a remedy for various ailments, appreciating it not just for the zest it brings to the table, but for its wellness-enhancing qualities as well.

Red onions’ health benefits

Red onions, with their striking purple hue and subtly sweet flavor, are more than just a vibrant addition to your meals. These onions are packed with powerful antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has been linked to heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Importantly, they serve as a prebiotic food, nourishing the beneficial gut bacteria that play a vital role in our digestive health. Onions are also rich in vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and folate.

What are sumac onions?

They are a condiment composed of thinly sliced red onions marinated in sumac powder, lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, and salt.

They go by various names, including Turkish onion salad, sumac marinated onions, and red onion salad. If you forgo the oil, the result resembles quick pickled onions.

Like many traditional recipes, there are several variations of this delightful condiment. While some versions skip the olive oil, others incorporate red wine vinegar or fresh chopped parsley. I sometimes sprinkle in dry oregano for an added burst of flavor and polyphenols.

Ingredients to make sumac onions

• 1 large red onion
• 2 teaspoons sumac
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (adjust to taste)
• 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

They pair well with parsley, so if you want to add more nutrients and flavor to this condiment, feel free to add some finely chopped parsley.

How to make sumac onions

• Begin by cutting the red onion in half from stem to root. Then, thinly slice each half, cutting from the stem to the root.
• Transfer the onion slices to a mixing bowl. Add sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. Toss the mixture thoroughly using your hands or two forks to ensure the onions are well-coated with the seasonings.

• Transfer the seasoned onions, along with all the juices, into a jar. Allow them to marinate for at least 30 minutes before consuming to enhance the flavors.
• Store any leftovers in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Serving suggestions

Sumac onions are an incredibly versatile condiment, effortlessly elevating the flavors and nutritional profile of many dishes. By incorporating them, you’re not only adding a tangy burst of flavor but also enriching your meals with prebiotic fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants.

Marinating raw onions is a great way to mellow out their intense, pungent taste. Their serving possibilities are vast:

• Middle Eastern Style Salad: Add them to a rucola (or arugula) salad, for zest and vibrancy.
• Sandwiches, Wraps, Burgers, and Tacos: Infuse a layer of depth by including these tangy onions.
• Main Courses: Draped alongside your favorite dishes, they provide a complementary burst of flavor. They go particularly well with grilled meat and chicken.
• Buddha Bowls: A sprinkle of sumac onions gives these wholesome bowls a tangy twist.
• Breakfast: Pair them with morning eggs, offering a bright and healthful start to your day. We recommend our Green Shakshuka.

The options are truly endless!

I hope you love our sumac onions recipe.

If you love red onions, try our Sugar-Free Pickled Red Onions and Gluten-Free Oven Baked Crispy Onions.

This post contains affiliated links, which means I get a small commission if you choose to purchase something via one of my links, at no extra cost to you.