Turkish Chopped Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight
This Turkish Chopped Salad is an inspired adaptation from a delightful dish I encountered during a visit to a charming Turkish restaurant. It captures the essence of summer, showcasing fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together to create a refreshing accompaniment perfect for grilled meats or fish, and it shines particularly well on those hot days when you crave something light yet satisfying.
Description
In this version, I highly recommend using fresh feta cheese sourced from a Mediterranean or Greek grocery store, as packaged feta can often be overly dry and salty. Alternatively, for a delightful Italian twist, consider substituting with Ricotta Salata, a semi-soft cheese made from sheep’s milk that can typically be found at well-stocked supermarkets or Italian delis. The salad is simply dressed with a modest amount of red wine vinegar and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to take center stage.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 202 |
| Total Fat | 12.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 25.4 mg |
| Sodium | 610.9 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 16.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 6.6 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| To taste | Salt |
| To taste | Pepper |
| 1 | Red wine vinegar |
| 1 | Olive oil |
| 2-3 | Plum tomatoes, diced |
| 1 | Cucumber, diced |
| 1/2 | Red onion, finely chopped |
| 1/4 | Feta cheese, crumbled |
| 1/4 cup | Kalamata olives, pitted |
| 1 bunch | Fresh Italian parsley, chopped |
| 1 | Lemon wedge |
Instructions
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Prepare the Parsley: Start by chopping the fresh Italian parsley finely and set it aside. This aromatic herb will add a burst of flavor to your salad.
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Chop the Vegetables: Next, take the plum tomatoes and cucumber, and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Add these diced vegetables to a large mixing bowl, allowing their colors to brighten the mix.
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Incorporate the Onion: Finely chop the red onion and add it to the bowl with the tomatoes and cucumber. The onion provides a gentle bite that complements the freshness of the other ingredients.
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Add the Olives: Toss in the pitted Kalamata olives, which will lend a salty, briny note to the salad, enhancing its Mediterranean flair.
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Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, combine the red wine vinegar and olive oil. Drizzle this dressing over the chopped vegetables and parsley. Mix thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
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Season to Taste: After mixing, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as desired, to enhance the flavors to your liking.
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Transfer to Platter: Carefully transfer the vibrant salad mixture to a serving platter, spreading it out to showcase the colorful ingredients.
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Add Feta and Lemon: Crumble the fresh feta cheese generously over the top of the salad. Arrange lemon wedges around the platter, inviting your guests to squeeze fresh juice over their portions for an extra zing.
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Serve with Pita: For an added touch, serve the salad alongside warm pita triangles, which are perfect for scooping up the refreshing mixture.
Enjoy Your Turkish Chopped Salad!
This delightful Turkish Chopped Salad not only serves as a refreshing side dish but also brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your dining table. Whether you’re enjoying a family barbecue or a casual meal, this salad is sure to impress your guests and family alike. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the simplicity of preparation that make this salad a staple for summer gatherings!
