Patlican Salatasi (Eggplant Salad)

Patlıcan Salatası (Eggplant Salad) Recipe

Patlıcan Salatası, or Eggplant Salad, is a delicious and healthy dish that is popular in Turkish cuisine. This salad is made with roasted eggplants, tomatoes, peppers, onions, and various herbs and spices, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light meal.

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants - 2 tomatoes, diced - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves of garlic, minced - Fresh parsley, chopped - Fresh mint, chopped - 1 lemon, juiced - Olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the whole eggplants on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is charred and the flesh is soft. Let the eggplants cool, then peel off the skin and chop the flesh into small pieces.

2. In a large bowl, combine the chopped eggplants, tomatoes, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.

3. Add the chopped parsley and mint to the bowl, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the salad, and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more lemon juice, olive oil, salt, or pepper according to your preference.

6. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve the Patlıcan Salatası chilled as a refreshing side dish or a light meal. You can garnish it with additional parsley or mint leaves before serving.

Enjoy this flavorful and nutritious Eggplant Salad as a perfect addition to your Mediterranean-inspired meal!