Sumac Dressing

Mediterranean sumac dressing is a bright and tangy vinaigrette that goes well with most fresh salads and may be your new go-to dressing!

This bright and tangy Mediterranean dressing is typically paired with fattoush salad (recipe here) but tastes delicious on most fresh salads.

It's a simple salad dressing made with extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, ground sumac, garlic, and salt. Often times it includes pomegranate molasses to add a sweet tartness to the dressing. However, we simply pair the dressing with pomegranate seeds, which is a tasty addition, but entirely optional. The seeds add just a touch of sweetness and a minimal amount of carbs or sugars per serving.

Sumac adds a tart flavor to the dressing and colors it a deep, dark red color. Because of its tangy lemon flavor, this dressing is perfect for most spring or summertime salads.

The dressing takes less that 5 minutes to make and is a fun dressing to add to any existing salad recipes.

What is Sumac?

Sumac is a popular spice used in Middle Eastern cooking and is made from berries that are ground into a coarse powder. These berries are typically found on shrubs in the Mediterranean, usually on higher, rocky areas.

Sumac has a lemony, sour flavor and brings out the flavors in the foods in which it's seasoned.

Healthline reports that Sumac contains a number of nutrients and antioxidants and has been known to lower blood sugars and help reduce muscle pain.

Ingredients

Extra-virgin olive oil: Quality, extra-virgin oil is a must since you'll taste it.

Fresh lemon juice: Lemon juice compliments the sumac and is typically used in sumac dressings. Freshly-squeezed lemon juice is best.

Red wine vinegar: Red wine vinegar isn't always used in sumac dressings, but we love the flavor it adds. A quality red wine vinegar is recommended.

Fresh, minced garlic: Garlic is another common ingredient in sumac dressing and fresh minced garlic is best.

Sumac: Many large grocers carry sumac in the spices section. It's a red spice with a tart, lemon-like flavor.

Salt: Salt is a must. We add ½ teaspoon but you can add to season. We use kosher salt, but you can use whatever you have on hand.

Pomegranate seeds (optional): We like to pair the dressing with pomegranate seeds since they add a tart sweetness to the salad, but they are entirely optional.

How to Make

STEP 1: In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients. Stir until well combined.

STEP 2: Drizzle over salad and top with a few tablespoons of pomegranate seeds.

How to Store

You can store in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week. Stir or shake well before using.

Related Recipes

Recipe