Turkish Ezme Recipe

Introduction

Turkish Ezme is a vibrant, fresh salad bursting with bold flavors from ripe vegetables and fragrant spices. This versatile mezze is perfect as a refreshing side or a zesty sauce for grilled dishes.

Ingredients

• 3 large tomatoes (firm and fresh)
• 1 medium white onion
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 lemon (juice of)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Aleppo pepper
• 1 tsp sumac

Instructions

1. Step 1: Chop the tomatoes very finely and place them in a bowl. Chop the white onion and both bell peppers finely as well, then add them to the tomatoes.
2. Step 2: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped parsley to the bowl and stir to combine all the vegetables evenly.
3. Step 3: Mix in the tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, black pepper, Aleppo pepper, and sumac. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Step 4: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled as a mezze, sauce, or fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• For extra freshness, use ripe but firm tomatoes to avoid excess liquid.
• Adjust the Aleppo pepper to taste if you prefer more or less heat.
• Try swapping parsley with fresh cilantro or mint for a different herbal note.
• If green bell peppers are unavailable, substitute with mild green chilies for more zest.

Storage

Store Turkish Ezme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving as the salad tends to release some liquid. It is best enjoyed fresh and chilled; reheating is not recommended.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Ezme ahead of time?

Yes, preparing Ezme a few hours in advance enhances the flavors as they meld together, but it is best eaten within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

What can I serve Turkish Ezme with?

Ezme pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, kebabs, pita bread, or as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus and yogurt-based dips.

Turkish Ezme Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 60 reviews

Turkish Ezme is a vibrant and refreshing mezze salad made from finely chopped fresh vegetables and herbs mixed with tangy lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic spices. This versatile dish serves as a perfect appetizer, dip, or side salad, delivering a zesty burst of flavor with every bite.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Turkish
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables

• 3 large tomatoes (firm and fresh)
• 1 medium white onion
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 red bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Dressings & Spices

• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 lemon (juice of)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp Aleppo pepper
• 1 tsp sumac

Instructions

1. Chop Vegetables: Finely chop the tomatoes, white onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Place the chopped tomatoes in a bowl, then add the finely chopped onions and peppers to the same bowl.
2. Add Garlic and Parsley: Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the fresh parsley. Add both to the bowl with the chopped vegetables and stir everything together to combine evenly.
3. Mix Dressing and Spices: Add the tomato paste, extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, black pepper, Aleppo pepper, and sumac to the vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and the flavors meld.
4. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld fully. Serve cold as a mezze appetizer, sauce, or side salad to complement your meal.

Notes

• Use firm, fresh tomatoes to maintain the salad’s texture and avoid excess juice.
• Optional: For a spicier version, adjust the amount of Aleppo pepper to taste.
• The green bell pepper can be substituted with a mild chili pepper for a hint of heat.
• Ezme can be served with warm flatbreads, grilled meats, or as a topping for dishes like kebabs and roasted vegetables.

Keywords: Turkish ezme, Turkish salad, ezme recipe, mezze, tomato salad, Mediterranean appetizer, fresh vegetable salad