Dessert

Turkish Ezme Recipe

Name: Turkish Ezme Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 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); 1 tbsp tomato paste; 1 lemon (juice of); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp Aleppo pepper; 1 tsp sumac

ByLily Monroe February 7, 2026February 7, 2026

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Introduction

Ezme is a vibrant Turkish salad that bursts with fresh flavors and a hint of spice. This finely chopped mix of tomatoes, peppers, and herbs makes a perfect mezze or a refreshing side dish to grilled meats.

A white bowl sits on a wooden board, filled with a chunky, textured tomato-based sauce that has visible small pieces of red and green herbs spread evenly throughout. To the right of the bowl, there is a bunch of fresh green parsley with broad leaves, and at the bottom right corner, a golden brown sesame seed flatbread shows a shiny, crispy crust. On the wooden board below the bowl, three bright yellow lemon slices arranged in a small stack are sprinkled with tiny bits of green herbs. A grey and white striped cloth is partially visible at the bottom edge of the scene. The surface beneath everything is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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)
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

Step 1: Chop the tomatoes very finely and place them in a bowl. Chop the onions and peppers very finely as well and add them to the tomatoes.
Step 2: Add the minced garlic and finely chopped parsley to the vegetables and stir to combine.
Step 3: Add in the tomato paste, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, Aleppo pepper, and sumac to the chopped vegetables. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Step 4: Refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve as a mezze, sauce, or fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, increase the amount of Aleppo pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
If green bell peppers are unavailable or too bitter, substitute with mild green chili or omit altogether.
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best tangy flavor.
Letting the salad chill longer enhances the melding of spices and fresh ingredients.

Storage

Store Ezme in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. It is best enjoyed fresh but can be served cold as a flavorful accompaniment to meals.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a white round dish filled with a chunky, thick dip that has a reddish-brown color with flecks of green herbs and visible bits of vegetables. A woman's hand is holding a piece of thick, fluffy bread dipped into the mixture, showing the wet and textured topping on the bread. The background is softly blurred, revealing slices of red tomato and a yellow lemon wedge on a white marbled surface. The dish looks hearty and fresh, with rich colors and textures highlighted under bright natural light. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Ezme in advance?

Yes, preparing Ezme a few hours ahead or the night before allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Is Ezme spicy?

Ezme has a mild to moderate spicy kick from Aleppo pepper. You can adjust the spice level by varying the amount of pepper used or omitting it for a milder taste.