Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun Recipe - Delicious Arabian-Italian Salad

Region / culture: Arabia, Italy | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun is a traditional Middle Eastern salad that combines the freshness of tomatoes with the briny flavor of olives. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to a larger meal.

History

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. The combination of tomatoes, olives, and herbs reflects the region's rich culinary history and the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Ingredients

2 beefsteak tomatoes, cored and thinly sliced
1 small red onion, finely chopped
140 g (5 oz) pitted black olives
3 heaped tablespoons flat leaf parsley, finely chopped
juice of 1 lemon
1 tsp ground cumin
0.5 tsp turmeric
pinch of black pepper
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

Prepare the dressing by combining the lemon juice, ground cumin, ground turmeric, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
Set the dressing aside.
Cut the tomatoes in half, remove the core and seeds, and slice them.
Place the sliced tomatoes in a medium bowl and add the chopped onion and chopped parsley.
Pour the dressing over the salad, mix well, and transfer to a serving dish.

Variations

Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese for a creamy finish.
Substitute black olives with green olives for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a more intense flavor, marinate the salad in the dressing for a few hours before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun as a side dish to grilled meats or as a light lunch with some crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires no cooking, making it a quick and easy dish to prepare.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cherry tomatoes instead of beefsteak tomatoes for a sweeter flavor.

- Substitute red onions with shallots or green onions for a milder taste.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or falafel.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the tomatoes will become mushy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains olives, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun is a nutritious and flavorful salad that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun is a refreshing and healthy salad that is bursting with flavor. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a perfect dish for any occasion. Enjoy this Middle Eastern classic as a side dish or a light meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in my grandmother's village in Lebanon. I had always loved spending time in the kitchen with her, watching her cook and learning all of her delicious recipes. One day, as we were preparing a big family meal, she pulled out a new recipe that she had learned from a friend - Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun.

I watched intently as she chopped fresh tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and fragrant mint leaves. She then mixed them all together in a bowl with tangy lemon juice, rich olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. The vibrant colors and enticing aroma of the salad were enough to make my mouth water. But what truly set this dish apart was the addition of olives - their briny flavor adding a unique twist to the traditional salad.

As my grandmother tossed the ingredients together, she explained to me the importance of using the freshest, highest quality ingredients. She told me stories of how she had learned this recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own personal touch to make it their own.

After the salad was made, my grandmother served it alongside a delicious spread of grilled meats, fragrant rice, and warm pita bread. The flavors of the salad complemented the other dishes perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory main course. As I took my first bite, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made Salata Tamatim wi Zaytun countless times, each time adding my own little twist to make it uniquely mine. Sometimes I add feta cheese for a creamy, tangy kick. Other times I sprinkle in some sumac for a hint of citrusy flavor. But no matter how I choose to make it, the recipe always brings back memories of that day in my grandmother's kitchen, learning from the best cook I have ever known.

I have shared this recipe with friends, family, and anyone who is willing to listen. It has become a signature dish of mine, one that always receives rave reviews and requests for second helpings. And each time I make it, I can't help but think of my grandmother and the love and care she put into teaching me this recipe.

As I sit here now, reflecting on that day so long ago, I am grateful for the gift of cooking that my grandmother passed down to me. Her recipes live on in my kitchen, bringing joy and nourishment to all who gather around my table. And I know that as long as I continue to cook and share these recipes, her memory will live on in every delicious bite.