How to Make a Turkish Salad with Olive Paste
Turkish salad is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines various ingredients to create a burst of flavors and textures. One of the unique variations of this salad includes the addition of olive paste, which enhances its richness and depth. If you're looking to create a delicious Turkish salad with olive paste, follow these simple steps.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced cucumbers
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped red onion
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (green or red)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup olive paste (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and dicing the cucumbers and tomatoes. Make sure to remove any seeds from the tomatoes to avoid excess moisture. Finely chop the red onion and bell peppers, and fresh parsley for added flavor.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing will enhance the salad's freshness while complementing the olive paste.
3. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, bell peppers, and chopped parsley. Add the olive paste, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the salad.
4. Add Dressing
Pour the dressing over the mixed salad ingredients. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure that the dressing coats all the vegetables and olive paste.
5. Chill and Serve
For the best flavors, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This will help the ingredients meld together. Serve the salad chilled as a side dish or enjoy it on its own for a light meal.
Tips for a Perfect Turkish Salad
- Feel free to add other ingredients like feta cheese, olives, or even chickpeas for extra protein.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference, adding more lemon juice or salt as desired.
- Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
This Turkish salad with olive paste is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. It's perfect for gatherings, picnics, or as a refreshing side for your favorite grilled dishes. Enjoy your delicious and healthy creation!