Turkish Salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish, packed with crisp vegetables and bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Made with juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, sweet bell peppers, and red onions, this salad is dressed with a simple yet zesty olive oil and lemon vinaigrette. Fresh herbs like parsley and mint add a fragrant touch, while sumac or a sprinkle of chili flakes gives it an extra zing. Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, kebabs, or as a light, healthy meal on its own, Turkish Salad offers a delicious balance of texture and flavor that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp sumac (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red and green bell peppers, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sumac (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Garnish with a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired, and serve chilled or at room temperature.
This Turkish Salad is a refreshing, healthy side dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a flavorful accompaniment to any Mediterranean-inspired meal!