Authentic Shopska Salad (Bulgarian Salad)
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
15 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
175 kcal
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Course
Salad
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Cuisine
Mediterranean
Authentic Shopska Salad (Bulgarian Salad)
Description
This Shopska Salad combines garden-fresh vegetables: cubed tomatoes, sliced European cucumber, cubed green bell pepper, and finely chopped red onion. These ingredients are mixed and lightly dressed with extra virgin olive oil and seasoned simply with salt to preserve their natural flavors. The salad is then covered with a generous layer of finely grated sirene or feta cheese, which is traditional in Bulgarian cuisine, adding a distinct salty and creamy note.
The texture contrasts the juicy, crisp vegetables with the creamy cheese topping. Optional sliced black olives are sometimes added for additional briny flavor and garnish, along with fresh parsley for color and aroma. The salad is best served fresh or slightly chilled to keep the vegetables crisp and vibrant.
Selecting ripe, high-quality vegetables and authentic brined white cheese makes a significant difference in flavor and authenticity. Cutting vegetables evenly enhances ease of eating and visual appeal. The salad works well as a light side dish accompanying grilled meats or as part of a summer lunch.
Ingredients
- 3 tomato cubed
- ½ cucumber or 1 regular cucumber, thinly sliced and halved, European, long
- 1 green bell pepper cubed
- ½ red onion finely chopped, large
- ¼ cup black olives sliced (optional, pitted
- 1 cup feta cheese thinly grated, sirene, Bulgarian
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl mix together tomatoes, cucumber, green bell peppers, and chopped red onion.
- Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt.
- Grate feta cheese over the salad so that it's nicely covered. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and olives. Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Notes
- Cut vegetables evenly to make the salad easy to eat and visually appealing.
- Use fresh, ripe vegetables to maximize flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after assembling for best results.
- Choose high-quality, brined white feta or sirene cheese, ideally fresh or in brine, from European or local stores.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 175 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 175kcal | 9% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 22mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 376mg | 16% |
| Potassium | 243mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 731IU | 15% |
| Vitamin C | 26mg | 29% |
| Calcium | 140mg | 14% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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