How to Make a Simple Turkish Tomato Salad

Turkish tomato salad, known as "Domates Salatası," is a refreshing and vibrant dish that highlights the natural flavors of fresh tomatoes and herbs. This salad is an excellent side dish that complements a variety of main courses. Here is a simple recipe to help you make a delightful Turkish tomato salad at home.

Ingredients

  • 4-5 ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 bell pepper (green or red), diced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Fresh mint, chopped (optional)
  • Olive oil (extra virgin)
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Turkish tomato salad:

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Thinly slice the red onion.
  2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and sliced onion. Gently toss the ingredients together to mix them well.
  3. Add Herbs: Add a generous amount of chopped fresh parsley and mint (if using) to the salad. The herbs will add a refreshing aroma and enhance the flavor of the dish.
  4. Dress the Salad: Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the salad. The olive oil adds richness, while the lemon juice provides a zesty kick.
  5. Season: Sprinkle salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences. Toss the salad gently to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing and seasoning.
  6. Serve: Let the salad sit for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. Serve it fresh as a side dish or as a light meal on its own.

Tips for the Best Turkish Tomato Salad

  • Choose vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor; they should be fragrant and firm.
  • Feel free to customize the salad by adding other ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or radishes for extra texture.
  • For added crunch, include sliced carrots or celery.

This simple Turkish tomato salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vitamins and fresh flavors. It’s a perfect dish for a summer picnic, a barbecued dinner, or a light lunch. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of Turkey right at your table!