Salata Shariya from Libya
Classic Libyan salad, also known as “Salata Shariya,” is a refreshing and vibrant dish that is a staple in Libyan cuisine. This traditional salad features a delightful medley of fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a colourful and flavourful ensemble.
Preparing the Classic Libyan Salad
To prepare this salad, start by finely dicing ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and sweet bell peppers. You can also add some chopped red onions for an extra kick of flavour. The vegetables are then combined in a bowl, creating a beautiful mosaic of colours.
Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
To enhance the taste and aroma, add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This simple dressing brings out the natural flavours of the vegetables and adds a delightful tangy twist to the salad. A sprinkle of salt and freshly ground black pepper are added to season the salad perfectly.

Other Ingredients
For extra flavour, add black olives, crumbled feta, or fresh herbs like mint or parsley. These optional additions bring briny, creamy, and fresh notes to the salad. These ingredients can be tailored to personal preference, allowing for a customizable and versatile dish.
Served as a Main Meal or Side Plate
Classic Libyan salad can be enjoyed as a side, topping, or light snack. It highlights the vibrant flavours of Mediterranean cuisine. Its simplicity, freshness, and versatility make it a beloved dish that holds a special place in Libyan culinary culture.
Ingredients:
3 tomatoes
1 apple diced I used a granny smith
1/2 medium onion or 2 spring onions chopped
1/2 cup parsley and cilantro combined
1/2 cup grated cucumbers
For the dressing:
3 tomato pulps
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and lemon juice to taste
For garnish:
1/4 cup pitted black olives
extra apple slices
1 can of tuna Optional
Instructions:
1. Cut the tomatoes in half and squeeze the pulp out into a bowl
2. dice the tomatoes
3. peel, core and dice the apple but save a few slices to garnish with.
4. dice the onion or chop the spring onion
5. chop the fresh parsley and cilantro
6. grate the cucumbers
7. combine all the ingredients together in a bowl other than the pulp.
8. Using the bowl that the tomato pulp is in, add in the olive oil, salt and lemon juice to taste. Whisk all together and pour over the salad. Or serve the dressing on the side
Garnish with the olives and apple slices and can of tuna if using
Enjoy with some Libyan bread!