This traditional Turkish salad brings together roasted eggplant, sweet peppers, and garlic for a richly flavored, smoky meze. Served cold or at room temperature, Közlenmiş Patlıcan Salatası is a staple in Turkish cuisine, offering a refreshing yet deeply savory complement to grilled meats, kebabs, or simple flatbreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With its bold, smoky essence and fresh Mediterranean ingredients, this salad is both healthy and satisfying. It’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or part of a meze spread, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 large eggplants
2 red bell peppers
1 green bell pepper
2 medium tomatoes, peeled and finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar
Salt to taste
Optional: 1–2 fresh green chili peppers (for heat)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the eggplants and peppers on a baking sheet. Roast for 30–35 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skins are charred and the vegetables are soft.
Remove the tray from the oven. Cover the vegetables with foil or place them in a sealed container to steam for about 10 minutes—this helps loosen the skins.
Peel the skins off the eggplants and peppers once they are cool enough to handle.
Finely chop the roasted vegetables and place them in a bowl.
Add the chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve with pita or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6 as a side or appetizer
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Additional Time: 10 minutes resting + 30 minutes chilling
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add onions: Finely chopped red or green onions can be added for extra bite.
Use vinegar: Swap lemon juice with red wine or apple cider vinegar for a deeper tang.
Smokier flavor: Grill the vegetables over an open flame instead of roasting for enhanced smokiness.
Add pomegranate molasses: A drizzle adds sweet-tart complexity and pairs beautifully with eggplant.
Include herbs: Mix in chopped mint or dill for a different herbal note.

storage/reheating

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary or recommended.

FAQs

Can I roast the vegetables on a grill instead of in the oven?

Yes, grilling gives an even smokier flavor and is traditional in many Turkish households.

Do I have to peel the eggplant and peppers?

Yes, peeling is essential after roasting to remove the charred skin and achieve a smooth, flavorful texture.

What can I serve this salad with?

It pairs well with grilled meats, kebabs, rice dishes, or warm flatbread.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s best when allowed to chill for at least 30 minutes, and it can be made a day in advance.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default, but you can add fresh green chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?

Fresh tomatoes are recommended for texture and freshness, but canned, drained, and chopped tomatoes can be used in a pinch.

How do I peel tomatoes easily?

Score the bottoms with an “X”, blanch in boiling water for 30 seconds, then transfer to ice water. The skins should peel off easily.

Is this salad vegan?

Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and suitable for a vegan diet.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Use a sealed container in the fridge. Stir before serving again, as some liquid may separate.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the roasted vegetables will deteriorate upon thawing.

Conclusion

Turkish Roasted Eggplant & Pepper Salad (Közlenmiş Patlıcan Salatası) captures the essence of Mediterranean simplicity—smoky vegetables, vibrant flavors, and healthy ingredients all come together in a dish that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re serving it as a side or part of a festive spread, this salad is sure to impress with its bold taste and rustic charm.