Arabic Salad with Sumac (Iraqi Summaq)

Iraqi sumac salad, called summaq salad, is your typical Arabic salad with the addition of the berry called sumac. This berry, native to the Middle East, is a dark red berry that is dried and ground. The result is a lemony tasting tart spice that can be added to meats, vegetables and salad. Please note that this Sumac is not the same as you find in your backyard in North America. There are poisonous types of sumac so please buy your sumac from a reputable source. Adding sumac into your diet is certainly worthwhile. It is considered to be an antioxidant, helps to lower bad cholesterol and raise the good one, plus lowers levels of blood glucose.

2 medium cucumbers
2 medium firm tomatoes
1 red onion
handful parsley leaves
small handful mint leaves
1 Tbsp. sumac
2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed
kosher or sea salt
black pepper, freshly ground

Cut the cucumbers, tomatoes and onions into small cubes and place into a bowl.

Coarsely chop the herbs and add to the chopped vegetables. Add sumac, olive oil, lemon juice, freshly squeezed and salt to taste.Toss well and let the flavours meld together in the refrigerator before serving.

Makes 4 servings.