Print

Fresh Turkish Shepherds Salad Recipe with Easy Tangy Pomegranate Dressing

Turkish shepherds salad - featured image
Print Recipe

A vibrant and refreshing Turkish shepherd’s salad featuring chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs, and a tangy pomegranate molasses dressing. Perfect as a light side dish or a healthy snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped (soaked briefly in cold water)
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 3 tablespoons pomegranate molasses
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Wash all fresh produce thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and finely chop the red onion. Soak the chopped onion in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well.
  2. Remove thick stems from parsley and mint, then roughly chop the leaves.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, lemon juice, honey (if using), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the balance as needed.
  4. Combine all the chopped vegetables and herbs in a large mixing bowl. Pour the dressing over and toss gently but thoroughly to coat evenly.
  5. Optional: Let the salad sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

If tomatoes are very juicy, drain excess liquid before tossing to avoid a watery salad. Soaking the onion mellows its sharpness. Use good quality olive oil for best flavor. Dressing can be adjusted to taste by balancing pomegranate molasses, lemon juice, and honey/maple syrup. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; keep dressing separate if possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish salad, shepherd's salad, pomegranate dressing, fresh salad, healthy salad, vegan salad, gluten-free salad

Find it online: https://elaraeats.com/fresh-turkish-shepherds-salad-recipe-with-easy-tangy-pomegranate-dressing/