Turkish Coban Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives Recipe

A refreshing traditional Turkish salad with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives.

Delight in the vibrant and refreshing flavors of Turkish cuisine with this traditional dish called Coban Salad. Coban translates to 'shepherd' in Turkish, which perfectly suited this rustic and simple salad favored by shepherds in the Anatolian region. This salad is a true representation of the medley of tastes and colors that define Turkish salads.

With a foundation of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and crunchy green peppers, this salad is a summer favorite. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and the quality of the ingredients used. Each bite is an explosion of flavor enhanced by tangy feta cheese and briny olives. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal on its own, Coban Salad brings the essence of Turkish summer gardens straight to your table.

Ingredients

• 4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeds removed and diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

Calories: ~200 calories

Instructions

1. Prepare Vegetables: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes and cucumbers into small, evenly sized pieces. Remove the seeds from the green bell pepper and cut it into small cubes. Finely chop the red onion.
2. Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, green bell pepper, and chopped red onion.
3. Add Olives and Feta: Add the halved Kalamata olives and the crumbled feta cheese to the bowl.
4. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and dried oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the salad to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste of Turkish Coban Salad.

Enjoy your Turkish Coban Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives! This simple yet flavorful salad is a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. Pair it with grilled meats or seafood, or enjoy it on its own as a light and healthy meal.

Tip: For an added layer of flavor, you can sprinkle a pinch of sumac or drizzle with pomegranate molasses. Both ingredients are commonly used in Turkish cuisine and will enhance the tartness of the salad.