If you’re looking to transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets and vibrant kitchens of Turkey, you’ll absolutely fall in love with Piyaz. This classic salad is an irresistible medley of creamy white beans, zippy onions, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant herbs, all bound together by a bright, tangy dressing. With its refreshingly crisp flavors and hearty texture, Piyaz is more than just a salad—it’s a celebration of simplicity, color, and a joyful way of eating that’s perfect for anyone who loves Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Piyaz lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays a starring role. Each one adds its own dash of texture, color, or irresistible flavor, making this salad lively and absolutely unforgettable.
- White beans: Creamy cannellini or navy beans form the hearty, protein-rich base for Piyaz, soaking up every bit of zest from the dressing.
- Red onion: Thin slices infuse a punchy, slightly sweet sharpness that brightens every bite.
- Tomato: Juicy diced tomato adds vibrant color and a gentle acidity that balances the dish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley brings an herby freshness and a pop of green that makes the salad sing.
- Extra virgin olive oil: The good stuff! It lends smooth richness to the dressing and ties all the flavors together.
- Red wine vinegar or lemon juice: Just a splash brings a lively, tart twist that wakes up the beans.
- Sumac (optional): A traditional Turkish touch, this reddish spice delivers a lemony tang and gorgeous color.
- Salt: Essential for lifting all the flavors—don’t be shy, taste as you go!
- Black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and depth, perfectly balancing the salad.
- Hard-boiled egg (optional for garnish): Classic and lovely—quartered eggs on top make Piyaz extra special and satisfying.
How to Make Piyaz
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping your veggies. Thinly slice the red onion, dice the tomato into small pieces, and roughly chop the parsley. This fresh trio will give Piyaz its crisp, lively bite and build the perfect foundation for the salad. With these vegetables prepared, assembly will be a breeze!
Step 2: Combine the Base
In a large mixing bowl, place the cooked white beans (canned beans work perfectly, just rinse and drain them well). Add the sliced onion, diced tomato, and chopped parsley. Use a gentle hand when tossing everything together—you want the beans to stay whole and plump for the best texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, your choice of red wine vinegar or lemon juice, sumac (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. The dressing should taste lively and sharp, with just enough salt to bring out the natural flavors. This tangy elixir is what transforms simple beans into classic Piyaz.
Step 4: Toss and Rest
Pour the freshly-whisked dressing over the bean mixture and toss everything gently until each bean gets coated in flavor. Let the salad stand at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This resting time lets the magic happen—the onions mellow, the beans soak up the dressing, and the entire salad comes together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer your Piyaz to a serving dish and, if you like, garnish with quartered hard-boiled eggs. Their creamy yolk and striking appearance make the salad feel truly authentic and festive. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and get ready for compliments!
How to Serve Piyaz
Garnishes
A classic garnish for Piyaz is simply a few slices or quarters of hard-boiled egg, which nestle beautifully atop the salad. Sprinkle a touch more sumac or a handful of fresh parsley leaves for a pop of extra color and zesty flavor. A drizzle of quality olive oil or a little tahini can elevate your Piyaz to a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Side Dishes
Piyaz shines on its own, but it’s also dreamy with soft, warm pita bread or slabs of crusty sourdough for scooping. Pair it alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or your favorite Turkish kebabs for a complete Mediterranean feast. Even next to a simple plate of olives and cheese, Piyaz steals the show.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful by serving Piyaz in charming little jars or over a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for picnic or party platters. Stuff it into pita pockets or wrap it in flatbread with a dollop of yogurt for a fun, hand-held lunch. Or, spoon it onto mini toasts as an easy appetizer—however you present it, Piyaz always brings a burst of sunshine to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover Piyaz (which is rare because it disappears so fast!), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, and you might even find the flavors get deeper and more delicious as it sits. Just be sure to give it a light toss before serving again.
Freezing
It’s best to avoid freezing Piyaz, as the beans and fresh vegetables tend to lose their texture when thawed. The salad is at its peak when enjoyed fresh or within a day or two of making—but the good news is, it’s so easy to whip up a new batch anytime!
Reheating
Piyaz is definitely meant to be served chilled or at room temperature. There’s no need to reheat; just let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving. This keeps the beans tender and the veggies crisp, just as they should be.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans for Piyaz?
Absolutely! Canned white beans are a fantastic shortcut. Just be sure to rinse and drain them thoroughly to remove excess salt and any canning liquid, then proceed with the recipe as written.
What does sumac add to Piyaz, and is it essential?
Sumac brings a uniquely tangy, citrusy punch and beautiful color. While traditional and highly recommended for that authentic Turkish flair, you can leave it out if you can’t find it—the salad will still be wonderful.
How long should I let Piyaz sit before serving?
Letting it rest for 10 to 15 minutes is ideal. This allows the flavors to meld and the onions to mellow slightly, creating a more harmonious bite. If you have a bit longer, even better!
Are there popular variations of Piyaz?
Definitely! Some versions add chopped cucumber, green peppers, radishes, or even a touch of tahini in the dressing. Each regional twist brings its own charm, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite.
Is Piyaz suitable for vegans?
Yes! Simply skip the hard-boiled egg garnish to keep the salad completely vegan. Every other ingredient is naturally plant-based, making it a perfect addition to vegan or vegetarian menus.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t added Piyaz to your salad rotation yet, now is the perfect time to let its fresh, tangy flavors win a place at your table. This easy Turkish classic is always a hit—give it a try and let yourself be surprised by just how much joy a humble dish of beans can bring. Happy cooking!
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Piyaz Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing and flavorful Turkish white bean salad known as Piyaz, perfect for a light and healthy meal or side dish. This Mediterranean-inspired dish features white beans, red onion, tomato, and parsley, all tossed in a tangy dressing with a hint of sumac.
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sumac (optional but traditional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1 hard-boiled egg, quartered (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white beans, sliced red onion, diced tomato, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Pour the dressing over the bean mixture and toss gently to combine without breaking up the beans.
- Let the salad sit for at least 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with quartered hard-boiled egg if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- You can use canned beans for convenience—just rinse and drain well.
- Add chopped cucumbers or green peppers for extra crunch.
- For a more traditional touch, drizzle with tahini before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Turkish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg (without egg)
