Turkish cuisine is famed for its vibrant flavors, fresh ingredients, and rich traditions. One often overlooked yet deeply cherished category is its selection of cold dishes. From creamy yogurt plates to refreshing vegetable starters, Turkish cold dishes are designed not only to awaken the palate but also to balance out a full meal. At Mama Fatma, with our locations in Toronto / Ontario / Canada, we celebrate these cold delights with a curated selection that reflects the best of Turkish hospitality.

Ready to discover refreshing and flavorful Turkish cold dishes? Visit Mama Fatma and let us guide your palate through a chilled culinary journey.

Cold Mezes And Their Role In Meals

Cold mezes are more than just appetizers in Turkish dining—they set the tone for the entire experience. Typically served before the main course, they allow guests to sample various flavors and textures.

  • Ezme: A finely chopped mix of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and herbs. Spicy and tangy, this cold meze is a flavor bomb.

  • Fava Bean Purée: Mashed broad beans with olive oil and garlic, served chilled.

  • Stuffed Grape Leaves (Yaprak Sarma): Rice, pine nuts, and herbs rolled in grape leaves, often served cold.

Cold mezes encourage a culture of sharing and conversation, a cornerstone of Turkish hospitality.

Want to build a meze platter that impresses? Our cold mezes at Mama Fatma are the perfect start to any meal.

Yogurt-Based Cold Plates

Yogurt plays a significant role in Turkish cold dishes, offering a cooling contrast to more intense flavors. However, it is not just served plain—it is often transformed into rich, herb-laden plates that complement a variety of dishes.

  • Haydari: Thick strained yogurt mixed with garlic, mint, and dill.

  • Cacık: Similar to tzatziki, made with yogurt, cucumbers, and a hint of garlic.

These yogurt-based plates act as refreshing companions to grilled meats or spicy sides, providing a creamy texture and cooling effect.

Craving a creamy yet refreshing side? Try our house-made haydari and cacık at Mama Fatma.

Vegetable-Based Starters

Turkish cold dishes shine when it comes to vegetable-based starters. These are typically olive oil-based and seasoned with citrus, making them light and perfect for warm-weather dining.

  • Green Beans in Olive Oil: Tender beans slowly cooked with onions and tomatoes.

  • Zucchini with Garlic Yogurt: Lightly sautéed zucchini topped with garlicky yogurt.

  • Roasted Eggplant Salad: Smoky eggplants mixed with peppers, onions, and a drizzle of olive oil.

These options are perfect examples of the balance in Turkish cold dishes—earthy, tangy, and refreshing.

For a fresh start to your meal, order our cold vegetable appetizers that highlight the best of Turkish produce.

How Cold Dishes Are Served In Summer

In Turkey, cold dishes are especially prominent during the hot summer months. Meals often begin with a spread of chilled starters, paired with fresh bread and cool beverages. These dishes help keep the body light and energized, especially in Mediterranean and Aegean coastal regions.

Cold dishes like zeytinyağlılar (olive oil-based starters) are served at room temperature or cold and are meant to be enjoyed slowly. They’re ideal for outdoor dining, picnics, and leisurely meals that stretch into the evening.

Visiting Mama Fatma this summer? Don’t miss our seasonal cold plates—perfect for sunny days and relaxed evenings.

Popular Cold Dishes At Mama Fatma

At Mama Fatma, we take pride in offering a variety of traditional cold dishes made from authentic recipes and fresh ingredients. Customer favorites include:

  • Eggplant Salad: Smoky, smooth, and slightly tangy.

  • Haydari: A creamy herbal yogurt dip, perfect with warm bread.

  • Stuffed Vine Leaves: Balanced and herbaceous, with hints of citrus.

  • Cacık: Refreshing and creamy, served with a drizzle of olive oil.

Our selection of Turkish cold dishes is crafted to suit every palate, whether you’re a fan of creamy yogurt-based options or prefer the lightness of olive oil and herbs.

Looking for a meal that refreshes and satisfies? Explore our cold dish menu at Mama Fatma and enjoy the best of Turkish culinary tradition.

Turkish cold dishes are more than just appetizers—they are an essential part of the cultural and social fabric of Turkish cuisine. They embody balance, freshness, and a sense of togetherness that defines a true Turkish meal.

Whether you’re new to these flavors or already a fan, there’s always something new to discover. At Mama Fatma in Toronto / Ontario / Canada, we invite you to explore our take on these traditional favorites.