Dinner

Turkish Ezme Recipe

Name: Turkish Ezme Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Turkish
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

ByMaya Quinn February 13, 2026February 13, 2026

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Introduction

Ezme is a vibrant Turkish salad that bursts with fresh flavors and a subtle spicy kick. This finely chopped blend of tomatoes, peppers, and herbs makes a perfect mezze or a zesty side dish to complement grilled meats or pita bread.

The image shows a white bowl filled with a chunky, reddish-brown dip containing visible pieces of red and green herbs and spices, giving it a textured, slightly oily surface. To the right of the bowl, there is a bunch of fresh green parsley with vibrant leaves. Below the bowl, there are four lemon slices arranged in a small pile, showing the light yellow color and juicy texture. At the bottom right corner, part of a golden-brown toasted bread with sesame seeds is visible, showing a crispy, textured surface. The dish is placed on a wooden board, set over a white marbled textured background, with a folded blue and white striped cloth partially visible near the bread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Chop the tomatoes very finely and place them in a bowl. Chop the onions and both the green and red bell peppers very finely as well, then add them to the tomatoes.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped parsley to the bowl with the chopped vegetables. Stir to combine evenly.
Step 3: Mix in the tomato paste, olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, kosher salt, black pepper, Aleppo pepper, and sumac. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 4: Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving as a mezze, sauce, or salad.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use fresh chili peppers instead of bell peppers.
If you prefer a smoother texture, pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor but avoid pureeing it completely.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best brightness; bottled lemon juice may alter the flavor.

Storage

Store ezme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will deepen over time. Stir well before serving again. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can bring it to room temperature before serving if preferred.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a white bowl filled with a chunky, reddish-brown dip that has flecks of green herbs and small bits of red peppers throughout, showing a rich, moist texture. A woman's hand is holding a piece of golden, toasted bread that is partially dipped into the mixture, with the dip thickly coating the bread's surface. In the blurred background, there are round red tomatoes and lemon wedges set on a white marbled texture. The overall setting emphasizes a fresh and vibrant feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make ezme ahead of time?

Yes, ezme benefits from resting in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop fully. It can be made a few hours ahead or the day before.