Zesty Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad You’ll Love

Name: Zesty Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 medium Red Onions (Sliced); 1 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped); 2 tablespoons Sumac; 1 cup Fresh Mint (Chopped); 1 cup Mint Yogurt (Greek yogurt can substitute); 2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar (Can substitute with white wine vinegar or lemon juice); 3 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil; 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste)

Published: February 11, 2026

by Clare

Why Love Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad?

Simplicity at its finest: With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up this vibrant salad in only 15 minutes.
Zesty Flavor: The tangy sumac pairs beautifully with creamy mint yogurt, creating a uniquely refreshing taste to revitalize your meals.
Versatile Pairing: Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, or as a topping over falafel or hummus, it adds flair to any plate.
Health-Conscious Delight: Gluten-free and vegan, enjoy guilt-free indulgence with only 56 calories per serving.
Impressive Presentation: The colorful mix of red onions and herbs dazzles the eyes, making it a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or family dinners.
Explore more delicious sides like the Yogurt Potato Salad to complement your meal!

Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Red Onions – A key ingredient that adds sharpness and crunch; yellow onions can also work if needed.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with freshness and color; choose vibrant green leaves for the best flavor.
• Sumac – This tangy spice is essential; don’t skip it as it’s the heart of the salad.
• Fresh Mint – Introduce a refreshing layer that perfectly complements the yogurt; substitute with dill for a different herb twist.

For the Dressing
• Mint Yogurt – A creamy base that ties everything together; Greek yogurt can substitute for a thicker texture.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Provides necessary acidity; white wine vinegar or lemon juice can be swapped for a milder flavor.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances richness; opt for high-quality oil to elevate the overall taste.
• Kosher Salt – Adjusts flavors to your preference; start with a pinch and add more as needed.

This refreshing Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad is a beautiful addition to any meal, weaving together vibrant flavors that will tantalize your taste buds!

How to Make Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add sliced red onions, chopped parsley, sumac, and fresh mint. The mixture will become aromatic and colorful, setting the stage for vibrant flavors.
Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mint yogurt, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and kosher salt. Stir until well combined, creating a smooth, creamy dressing.
Mix Together: Pour the dressing over the onion mixture. Gently toss everything together, ensuring the onions and herbs are well coated in the creamy sauce.
Marinate: Let the salad sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature. This allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, softening the onions while keeping their crunch.
Serve: Enjoy as a delightful side with grilled meats or as a topping on falafel or hummus. This vibrant salad is sure to impress!

Optional: Garnish with extra mint leaves or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad

• Choosing Onions Wisely: Use fresh red onions for their distinct flavor and crunch. Opt for yellow onions if you’re looking for a sweeter profile, but avoid overripe ones.

• Perfecting the Dressing: Whisk the mint yogurt, red wine vinegar, and olive oil thoroughly until smooth. Properly blending ensures the dressing coats all ingredients evenly without clumps.

• Marination Magic: Allow your salad to rest for a minimum of 20 minutes but no more than 2 hours to achieve the ideal balance of flavor and texture. Too long, and the onions may lose their crunch!

• Customizable Spice: Feel free to adjust the sumac quantity based on your personal taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to taste and tweak before serving for the best Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad!

• Serving Suggestions: This salad shines best as a side to grilled meats or as a topping for hummus and falafel. Get creative with pairings to enhance your meal experience!

Storage Tips for Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad

Fridge: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The onions will maintain their crunch and flavor, making it perfect for quick meals.

Freezer: To freeze, place the salad in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It can last for up to 3 months but is best enjoyed fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating: Simply thaw the frozen salad in the fridge overnight. Feel free to add a touch more mint yogurt to refresh the flavors once it’s ready to serve.

Enjoy Cold: This Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad is best served cold or at room temperature; the flavors are vibrant and refreshing, which enhances its appeal!

What to Serve with Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement this vibrant salad and create a full-flavored feast.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: The smoky, savory notes from the skewers beautifully enhance the salad’s tangy freshness, making each bite a delightful contrast.
Hummus and Pita Bread: Creamy hummus and warm pita provide a satisfying, hearty base that balances the bright flavors of the salad, ideal for a mezze platter.
Roasted Vegetables: The sweetness of caramelized veggies pairs harmoniously with the tartness of the onions, creating a balanced and nutritious plate.
Falafel: Crispy falafel topped with Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad adds texture and enhances the dish with a refreshing zing.
Spicy Lamb Chops: The rich flavor of lamb, especially when spiced, complements the zesty salad perfectly, providing a full-bodied eating experience.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light grain bowl with quinoa, nuts, and herbs provides a lovely backdrop for the salad, adding wholesome heartiness to your meal.
Zesty Lemonade: Serve chilled lemonade to cleanse the palate between bites, keeping the meal refreshingly light and enjoyable.

Variations & Substitutions for Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad

Feel free to play around with this recipe and get creative; your personalized twist can make all the difference!

Dairy-Free: Substitute the mint yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative for a creamy texture. Check for nut-free options if you’re avoiding nuts.
Herb Remix: Swap out fresh mint for basil or dill, offering a new aromatic flair. Each herb brings its own unique taste, so choose what you love most!
Citrus Burst: Add a splash of orange or grapefruit juice for a zesty pop, amplifying the freshness of the salad. It’s amazing how citrus can brighten any dish!
Heat Element: Spice things up by including diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance and enjoy the kick.
Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted walnuts or almonds for crunch and a rich flavor contrast. The nuts provide texture and pair beautifully with the creamy yogurt.
Sweet Surprise: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness that compliments the tangy onions. This duality of flavors can excite your palate!
Veggie Fusion: Mix in diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a crunchy, colorful twist. The additional vegetables make the salad heartier and boost its nutritional content.
Pickled Variation: Marinate the onions in a bit of vinegar before mixing with the yogurt for a tangier profile. The pickling process brings out deeper flavors while shouting freshness.

Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best red onions for this recipe?
Opt for firm, vibrant red onions without dark spots or soft patches. Fresh ones are key to achieving that sharpness and crunchy texture. If red onions are not available, yellow onions can also work for a sweeter flavor twist, but avoid any that are wilted or showing signs of spoilage!

How long can I store Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad in the fridge?
You can store this salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It will maintain its crunch and flavors, making it a fantastic option for quick meals during the week!

Can I freeze this salad? How?
Absolutely! To freeze Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad, place it in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. You may want to mix in a little extra mint yogurt to refresh the flavors before serving!

What’s the ideal marination time for the salad?
Marinate the salad for at least 20 minutes but no more than 2 hours. This timeframe allows the flavors to meld beautifully without losing the crispness of the onions. If you let it sit too long, the onions may become overly soft and lose that delightful crunch!

Can this salad be adapted for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! This Mint Yogurt Turkish Marinated Onion Salad is already gluten-free and vegan-friendly. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, ensure that the yogurt used is dairy-free and that all ingredients are checked for cross-contamination. For a nut-free alternative, avoid any nut-based yogurt options available. Enjoy this vibrant dish with peace of mind!