Arugula salad - specific to Arab countries

Arugula Salad with Sumac - An Explosion of Mediterranean Flavors

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Introduction
If you are looking for a quick and healthy recipe, arugula salad with sumac is the perfect choice. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delicious combination of flavors, based on simple yet characterful ingredients. Arugula, also known as rocket, is a true treasure of Mediterranean cuisine, with a distinctive, tangy, and slightly peppery taste. Sumac, this red-purple spice, adds a touch of freshness and a slight sour flavor, perfect for complementing the arugula leaves.

Recipe History
Arugula salads are traditional in many Mediterranean cultures, with deep roots in the culinary history of the region. The use of sumac, a popular spice in Middle Eastern kitchens, dates back to ancient times, used to add a sour taste and brighten dishes. This salad is a combination of simple yet highly aromatic ingredients that reflect the essence of Mediterranean cuisine: freshness, authenticity, and the joy of eating healthily.

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 bunch of arugula (approximately 100-150 g)
- 2 green onions (or one small red onion)
- Juice from one lemon (approximately 2-3 tablespoons)
- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of sumac
- Salt to taste

Ingredient Details
Arugula is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and fiber, making it an ideal ally for a healthy diet. Green onions add a crunch and a slightly spicy taste, while extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fatty acids and antioxidants. Sumac not only enriches the flavor of the salad but is also known for its antioxidant properties.

Step by Step: Preparing the Salad
1. Wash the arugula: Start by washing the arugula leaves well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Remove the tough stems and cut the leaves into larger pieces. If the leaves are small, you can leave them whole for a rustic look in the salad.

2. Prepare the green onions: Clean the green onions and chop them finely. If you choose the red onion, slice it into thin rings to bring a color contrast to the salad.

3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the arugula and green onions. Sprinkle the sumac and salt, then add the lemon juice and olive oil. Use a large spoon to mix the ingredients gently, ensuring that each leaf is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.

4. Garnish and serve: Once all the ingredients are well mixed, you can garnish the salad with a little extra sumac for a more appealing look. It is recommended to serve immediately to keep the arugula fresh.

Practical Tips
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add some halved cherry tomatoes or a few slices of avocado.
- If you want to turn the salad into a main dish, you can add some cubes of feta cheese or canned tuna.
- Arugula salad pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or flatbreads, bringing a pleasant texture contrast.

Combos and Serving Suggestions
This salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meat or fish dishes. It also pairs very well with Mediterranean dishes like hummus or baba ghanoush. A wonderful drink to accompany it would be a cold mint tea or fresh lemonade, which complements the flavors of the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of greens?
Yes, you can experiment with other aromatic greens like spinach or mixed salad leaves, but arugula retains its uniqueness with its characteristic taste.

2. How can I keep the salad longer?
Arugula salad is best consumed immediately. If you want to keep it, I recommend not adding the dressing before serving, but applying it just before eating.

3. Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! All the ingredients are vegan, making this salad an excellent choice for those following a plant-based diet.

In conclusion, arugula salad with sumac is a delicious, healthy, and quick choice, perfect for any meal. It brings you an explosion of flavors and nutritional benefits, being easy to prepare and adaptable to your tastes. So don’t hesitate to try this simple recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!