Arab-style Purslane Salad

Ingredients

In this Arab adaptation of the Turkish Semizotu Salatası, we have incorporated Arab flavors and ingredients to create a unique twist. The original Turkish dish typically includes ingredients like yogurt and olive oil, which have been replaced with lemon juice and sumac in this Arab version. Additionally, the Arab-style Purslane Salad highlights the use of parsley as a key herb, adding a fresh and aromatic element to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Semizotu salatası, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (200g) purslane leaves 2 cups (200g) purslane leaves
• 2 tomatoes, diced 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 cup (30g) fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 cup (30g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 4g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the purslane leaves thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the purslane leaves, diced tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped parsley.
3. 3.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, sumac, and salt.
4. 4.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. 5.
   Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Purslane leaves — Make sure to wash the purslane leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry before using in the salad to prevent excess moisture.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.
• If purslane is not available, you can substitute it with watercress or arugula.
• To add some crunch, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds on top of the salad.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and sumac according to your taste preferences.
• Serve the salad with warm pita bread for a complete Arab meal experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Arab-style Purslane Salad as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel. It can also be enjoyed as a light and healthy lunch or dinner option on its own.

Presentation advice

Garnish the salad with a sprinkle of sumac and a few fresh parsley leaves to enhance its visual appeal. Serve it in a vibrant salad bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients.