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Parsley, Red Onion, and Pomegranate Salad

This vibrant parsley, red onion, and pomegranate salad is a refreshing vegan side dish that brings a burst of Middle Eastern-inspired flavour to any meal. By macerating the red onions in sumac and sugar, the sharp bite of the onion mellows into a tangy, savoury base that perfectly complements the citrusy notes of the pomegranate molasses. It is a wonderful way to use fresh herbs as a main salad component rather than just a garnish.

Light and zingy, this salad is an excellent accompaniment to grilled vegetables, spicy falafel, or roasted grains. The combination of deep green flat-leaf parsley and ruby-red pomegranate seeds makes it a visually stunning addition to a dinner party spread or a simple Sunday lunch. It is naturally healthy, packed with antioxidants, and offers a delightful crunch in every bite.

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Ingredients for Parsley, Red Onion, and Pomegranate Salad

  • 1 large red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar

  • 1 teaspoon ground sumac

  • Kosher salt

  • 45ml olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • 1 teaspoon pomegranate molasses or 1/2 teaspoons honey

  • 4 cups (lightly packed) fresh flat-leaf parsley leaves with tender stems

  • 35g pomegranate seeds

How to make Parsley, Red Onion, and Pomegranate Salad

Toss onion, sugar, and sumac in a medium bowl; season with salt and let sit 30 minutes.

Add oil, vinegar, and pomegranate molasses and toss to combine; let sit 5 minutes.

Just before serving, toss in parsley and pomegranate seeds; season with salt.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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