Traditional Bulgarian Shopska Salad Recipe

Rustic Bulgarian Shopska Salad

Imagine the vibrant markets of Bulgaria, with their stalls brimming with fresh produce, the colorful array of vegetables, and the aroma of fresh herbs swirling through the air. This Bulgarian Shopska Salad, a timeless classic, captures the essence of Bulgaria’s rich culinary traditions. This fresh and vibrant dish, perfect for an omnivore’s delight, combines the crispness of vegetables with the creamy delight of Sirene cheese and the aromatic flair of herbs and spices. This creation brings the essence of Bulgarian culinary artistry straight to your table, with a meticulous blend of textures and flavors that will leave your palate delighted and your senses rejuvenated. Perfect for an intimate dinner, this dish is an exploration of the Balkan flavors in the comfort of your home.

Serves: 2, Difficulty: Expert

Preparation Time: 20 minutes, Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 Tomatoes, roughly 300 grams
• 1 Cucumber, approximately 200 grams
• 1 Green bell pepper, 150 grams
• 1 Red onion, 100 grams
• 100 grams Bulgarian Feta cheese (Sirene)
• 30 ml Olive oil
• 20 ml Red wine vinegar
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, a handful

Method

• Wash the tomatoes, cucumber, and green bell pepper thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes and cucumber into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the green bell pepper.
• Peel and thinly slice the red onion to allow its flavors to complement the salad’s crispness.
• In a large salad bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, green bell pepper, and red onion.
• Gently crumble the Bulgarian Feta cheese (Sirene) over the salad, adding a creamy contrast to the dish’s fresh components.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar to create a light and tangy dressing.
• Pour the dressing over the salad, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
• Finish with a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley, and toss the salad gently to blend the flavors thoroughly.
• Serve immediately to enjoy the salad’s fresh and vibrant textures.

Tips

• For the best results, use the freshest vegetables you can find to enhance the flavors and textures of the salad.
• Allow the salad to sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
• Adjust the amount of vinegar and olive oil to your taste preference, keeping the tangy and creamy balance in mind.

Nutritional Information