Piyaz (White Bean Salad)

Piyaz is a traditional Turkish dish that offers a refreshing and vibrant take on salads. This white bean salad is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavors, making it an ideal accompaniment to grilled meats or fish. If you're seeking a quick, nutritious addition to your meal or a light snack, you'll appreciate the deliciousness and ease of making piyaz.

At its heart, piyaz is a white bean salad cherished in Turkey and surrounding regions. While the beans form the base, it's the combination of fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and aromatic spices that makes this salad exceptional. Whether you’re enjoying a summer picnic or a cozy winter gathering, piyaz can be your go-to salad. It is both filling and refreshing, making it suitable for any occasion.

This salad isn't just a side dish; it can shine as a light lunch or snack. It's a protein-packed Mediterranean delight that enhances a variety of dishes on your dining table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups white beans (boiled and drained, or canned)

• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

• A handful of cherry tomatoes (or 1-2 medium-sized tomatoes, chopped)

• Half a red onion, diced

• Juice of half a lemon

• 3 tablespoons of olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon sumac

  
  

These ingredients blend beautifully, creating a dish that is not only appetizing but visually appealing. The vibrant greens and reds will brighten up your meal.

Easy Steps to Prepare Piyaz

Making piyaz is both quick and straightforward. Here’s how you can bring this delightful salad together:

1. Prepare the Beans

   If you're using canned white beans, drain and rinse them under cold water. If you're using freshly cooked beans, make sure they are cool before proceeding. This step allows you to save time while ensuring the beans are clean and ready to eat.

   
   

2. Chop the Vegetables

   Chop the parsley, halve the cherry tomatoes, and dice the red onion. For a milder onion flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for about 10 minutes, then drain. This simple trick softens its sharpness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

   
   

3. Combine Ingredients

   In a large bowl, mix the white beans, chopped parsley, tomatoes, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and add the lemon juice, salt, and sumac. Gently toss the ingredients to ensure every piece is coated with the dressing.

   
   

4. Serve and Enjoy

   Piyaz is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it as a side dish, or make it a light meal garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of sumac. It can also be stored in the fridge for a day, although fresh flavors are ideal.

   
   

Turkish white bean salad (piyaz) with red onions, parsley, and sumac, drizzled with olive oil

Understanding the Role of Sumac

While every ingredient plays a role in the flavor of piyaz, sumac deserves special attention. This spice lends a unique tangy taste that elevates the salad. Sumac is made from dried and ground berries from the sumac plant, known for its deep burgundy color and slightly tart flavor, which is reminiscent of lemon.

Finding sumac is becoming easier as it is increasingly available in grocery stores and online. Once you add it to your pantry, you will unlock new possibilities in Middle Eastern recipes, enhancing your culinary adventures.

Nutritional Highlights of Piyaz

Piyaz is not just a flavor wonder; it's packed with health benefits. White beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this salad filling and heart-friendly. Studies suggest that beans are effective in regulating blood sugar levels and promoting digestive health.

Additionally, the fresh vegetables like parsley and tomatoes are loaded with vitamins and minerals. For example, parsley is rich in antioxidants and aids digestion. Plus, the olive oil contributes healthy fats, making this salad a well-rounded meal choice.

Delicious Pairings for Piyaz

Piyaz complements many dishes, making it a fantastic addition to your meal planning. Here are some pair suggestions:

• Grilled chicken or meatballs

• Fish, especially grilled or baked options

• Pita bread and hummus for a Middle Eastern-inspired platter

• A light soup,

Piyaz is a delightful and nutritious white bean salad that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. With its fresh ingredients and the tangy kick from sumac, it promises to be a family favorite.

Whether served as a side dish or as a main attraction, this Turkish classic brings a taste of the Mediterranean right onto your plate. The next time you're in the mood for something fresh and light, consider making this simple yet delicious piyaz!

Embark on your culinary journey into Turkish cuisine and savor every bite of this wonderful salad!