Dish

Mermizeli

Mermizeli Salad

Mermizeli is a salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, parsley, and mint. The vegetables are chopped into small pieces and mixed together with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. The salad is then topped with feta cheese and served cold. This dish is perfect for hot summer days when you want something light and refreshing. It is also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have in your fridge.

Asian cuisine› Arab cuisine› Turkish cuisine

Salad

Origins and history

Mermizeli is a traditional Turkish dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the Aegean region of Turkey, where fresh vegetables are abundant. The dish is named after the main ingredient, which is the tomato. Mermizeli is a popular dish in Turkish cuisine and is often served as a side dish or appetizer.

Dietary considerations

Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Dairy-free

Variations

There are many variations of Mermizeli, depending on the region and personal preferences. Some people add green peppers or olives to the salad, while others prefer to leave them out. Some people also add a pinch of sugar to the dressing to balance out the acidity of the lemon juice. Another variation is to add some bulgur wheat to the salad to make it more filling.

Presentation and garnishing

To make the salad even more flavorful, try adding some chopped garlic or a dash of cumin to the dressing. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese. To make the dish look more visually appealing, try arranging the vegetables in a circular pattern on a large plate and topping them with the feta cheese.

Tips & Tricks

To make the salad even more refreshing, try chilling the vegetables in the fridge for a few hours before preparing the dish. You can also add some chopped fresh mint to the salad for an extra burst of flavor. If you don't have feta cheese, you can substitute it with another type of crumbly cheese, such as queso fresco or ricotta salata. If you want to make the salad more filling, try adding some cooked chickpeas or grilled chicken to the mix.

Side-dishes

Mermizeli is often served as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It pairs well with a glass of white wine or a cold beer. Some traditional Turkish side dishes that go well with Mermizeli include stuffed grape leaves, hummus, and baba ganoush.

Drink pairings

Mermizeli pairs well with a variety of drinks, including white wine, beer, and iced tea. For a more traditional Turkish experience, try serving it with a glass of Raki, a popular anise-flavored alcoholic drink.