Authentic Middle Eastern Salata Hara Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 large red bell pepper
  • 2 jalapeno peppers
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 bunch of fresh parsley
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash and dry the tomatoes, red bell pepper, and jalapeno peppers.
  2. Chop the tomatoes and bell pepper into small pieces and place them in a large bowl.
  3. Finely chop the jalapeno peppers and garlic. Be sure to remove the seeds from the jalapeno peppers to reduce heat, if desired.
  4. Add the chopped jalapeno and garlic to the bowl with the tomatoes and bell pepper.
  5. Chop the fresh parsley and cilantro and add it to the bowl.
  6. In a separate small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice to make the dressing.
  7. Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and herbs, and stir well to combine.
  8. Let the Salata Hara sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
  9. Before serving, give the salad a final stir and adjust seasoning as needed.
  10. Enjoy your Salata Hara as a side dish or as a dip with pita bread.

Tools for making

  • Knife - To chop the tomatoes, peppers, garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
  • Cutting Board - To provide a sturdy surface for chopping the ingredients.
  • Mixing Bowl - To combine all the ingredients together.
  • Small Bowl - To mix the dressing ingredients.
  • Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the salt, black pepper, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice.
  • Stirring Spoon - To stir the ingredients and dressing together.

Recipe variations

  • Add diced cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
  • Include finely chopped red onion for added flavor.
  • For extra spiciness, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as mint or basil.
  • Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
  • For a smoky flavor, roast the tomatoes, bell pepper, and jalapenos before chopping.
  • Include a small amount of diced avocado for creaminess.
  • Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese for added richness.
  • For a Mediterranean touch, toss in some Kalamata olives.
  • Serve the Salata Hara as a topping for grilled meats or fish.

Recipe overview

Salata Hara is a vibrant and spicy Middle Eastern salad that is full of fresh flavors. This recipe uses ripe tomatoes, a red bell pepper, jalapeno peppers, and a blend of fresh herbs to create a deliciously fresh and fiery dish. The dressing made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice adds a touch of tanginess that beautifully balances the heat from the peppers. This salad is perfect as a side dish or as a dip served with pita bread. It's easy to make and can be prepared in advance, giving the flavors time to meld together for a more intense experience. With this Salata Hara recipe, you'll bring a taste of the Middle East to your kitchen!

Common questions

  1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the Salata Hara?
    Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the Salata Hara by controlling the amount of jalapeno peppers you use. Removing the seeds and membranes from the jalapeno peppers will reduce the heat. Feel free to add more or less jalapeno peppers according to your preference for spiciness.
  2. Can I use other types of peppers instead of jalapenos?
    Certainly! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute jalapeno peppers with milder peppers such as Anaheim or poblano peppers. If you prefer more heat, you can use hotter peppers like serrano or habanero peppers. Just adjust the quantity based on your desired level of spiciness.
  3. Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the tomatoes?
    It is not necessary to remove the seeds from the tomatoes for this recipe. The seeds add flavor and texture to the Salata Hara. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can remove the seeds before chopping the tomatoes.
  4. Can I make Salata Hara ahead of time?
    Yes, you can make Salata Hara ahead of time. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare it a few hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a stir before serving to redistribute the flavors.
  5. Can I store leftover Salata Hara?
    Yes, you can store leftover Salata Hara in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Salata Hara, or Hot Salad, is a popular staple dish in the Arabian Peninsula, specifically in Yemen and Saudi Arabia. It is often served as part of the traditional mezze, a selection of small dishes served at the start of meals. What sets Salata Hara apart is its use of fresh, raw ingredients and fiery heat, embodying the spirit of the desert from which it hails. Each bite is a burst of diverse flavors - the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, the heat of jalapenos, and the freshness of herbs, all tied together with a simple, zesty dressing. The simplicity of this dish belies its deep, vibrant flavors, much like the seemingly barren desert concealing a wealth of life and color. Salata Hara is a testament to the ingenuity of the people of the Arabian Peninsula, making the most of the ingredients they have at hand to create a dish that is at once simple, delightful, and undeniably evocative of its place of origin.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.