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Turkish Ezme Recipe

4.6 from 125 reviews

Ezme is a traditional Turkish mezze salad made from finely chopped fresh vegetables and herbs, seasoned with spices, lemon juice, and olive oil. This vibrant, zesty dish is perfect as a refreshing appetizer or a flavorful side, bringing bright Mediterranean flavors to your table without any cooking required.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Seasoning & Dressing

  • 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. Chop vegetables finely: Finely chop the tomatoes, white onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Place all of these into a mixing bowl for the base of the salad.
  2. Add garlic and parsley: Mince the garlic cloves and finely chop the fresh parsley. Add these aromatic ingredients to the bowl with the vegetables and stir to combine evenly.
  3. Mix in seasoning and dressing: Add the tomato paste, freshly squeezed lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, Aleppo pepper, and sumac to the bowl. Mix very well to ensure all flavors are distributed and the consistency is harmonious.
  4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the ezme mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a mezze appetizer, sauce, or refreshing salad.

Notes

  • Use firm, fresh tomatoes to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
  • Aleppo pepper is mildly spicy and adds a unique flavor; substitute with mild crushed red pepper flakes if unavailable.
  • The green bell pepper adds crunch; if preferred, substitute with mild hot pepper for extra heat.
  • This salad is best served fresh but can keep for up to 24 hours refrigerated.
  • Adjust salt and lemon juice to taste depending on preference.

Keywords: Turkish ezme, Turkish salad, vegan mezze, Mediterranean salad, tomato salad, no-cook Turkish recipe