Piyaz – Turkish White Bean Salad 

A vibrant and refreshing Turkish mezze, Piyaz blends creamy white beans with crisp red onion, juicy tomato, and fresh parsley, all tossed in a zesty lemon–vinegar–olive oil dressing. Sumac adds its signature tangy burst, while optional Aleppo pepper or olives lend depth. Ready in about 15 minutes and delicious served chilled or at room temperature, this hearty salad is perfect as a side for grilled meats, meze spreads, or even as a light main. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and only gets better after a short rest.

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
  
  

• 2 tsp sumac
  
  

• ½ tsp sea salt (divided)
  
  

• 1 tsp Aleppo chili flakes or pul biber (optional)
  
  

• 3 medium tomatoes, diced (seeds removed if watery)
  
  

• 1 can (≈15 oz) white beans (butter, cannellini or navy), drained & rinsed
  
  

• ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley
  
  

• 3 Tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil
  
  

• 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar (or apple cider/grape vinegar)
  
  

• 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
  
  

• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste
  
  

• Optional toppings: hard-boiled eggs, Kalamata olives or tahini drizzle (Antalya style)
  
  

Directions

1. Prep onions – In a bowl, toss sliced onion with sumac and half the salt. Massage with hands for 30–60 seconds to soften and coat. Let sit to deepen flavors.
   
   

2. Combine salad – Add tomatoes, beans, parsley (and Aleppo flakes if using) to the onion bowl. Toss gently to mix.
   
   

3. Make dressing & toss – Whisk olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, remaining salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour over salad and toss to coat everything evenly.
   
   

4. Rest & serve – Let salad marinate ~10–30 minutes at room temperature or chilled—this mellows the onions and melds flavors. Top with optional olives, tahini, or egg slices before serving.
   
   

Nutrients (per serving, serves 4)

• Calories: ~207 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: ~23 g
  
  

• Protein: ~7 g
  
  

• Fat: ~10 g (mostly from olive oil)
  
  

• Fiber: ~6 g
  
  

• Sodium: ~500 mg (from beans & dressing)