Shopska Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish embodying Bulgarian cuisine’s essence. With ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and salty sirene cheese, this salad is a simple yet flavorful appetizer or side dish perfect for any occasion. Topped with a light dressing of sunflower oil and red wine vinegar, Shopska Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of Bulgaria.
Preparation Time
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients (Serves Four People)
- 4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes (approximately 400g)
- 2 long cucumbers (approximately 300g)
- 1 green bell pepper (150g)
- 1 red bell pepper (150g)
- 1 small red onion (100g)
- 200g sirene cheese (or feta as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Note: 1 tablespoon is approximately 15 ml, and a teaspoon is approximately 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers. Peel the red onion. Cut the tomatoes into small wedges or bite-sized pieces and place them in a large salad bowl. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or half-moons and add them to the bowl.
Step 2: Slice the Peppers and Onion
Remove the seeds and white membranes from the bell peppers. Cut them into thin strips and add to the bowl with the tomatoes and cucumbers. Thinly slice the red onion and mix it into the salad.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Crumble the sirene cheese over the vegetables or cut it into small cubes, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the sunflower oil and red wine vinegar. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately, or let the salad rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips and Tricks
- Authentic Flavor: For the most authentic taste, use Bulgarian sirene cheese. If Bulgarian white cheese (sirene, сирене) is unavailable, feta can be substituted.
- Best Tomatoes: Choose ripe, high-quality tomatoes to ensure the best flavor.
- Serve Cold: Chill the vegetables in the refrigerator before preparing the salad for a refreshing touch.
- Add Spice: Include a finely chopped chili pepper or a sprinkle of paprika for a little heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with fresh crusty bread to soak up the delicious dressing.
- Grilled Meats: Pair this salad with grilled meats like kebabs or lamb for a complete meal.
Wine Pairing
Bulgarians usually have Rakiya (schnaps or brandy) with Shopska salad. However, pairing this fresh and tangy salad with a light and crisp Bulgarian white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled rosé for a perfect summer combination is becoming trendy.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250 kcal
Protein: 9g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 600 mg
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Shopska Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 6 hours.
- Note on Storage: The vegetables may release liquid during storage, slightly intensifying the flavors. Due to their high water content, it is not recommended to freeze Shopska Salad.
About Bulgarian Shopska Salad
Shopska Salad is a signature Bulgarian dish, often enjoyed when fresh vegetables are abundant during the warmer months. Its combination of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and salty sirene cheese embodies the simplicity and flavor of traditional Bulgarian cuisine.
Cultural Context
Shopska Salad is named after the Shopluk region in Bulgaria and is a beloved dish throughout the Balkans. It is a staple at most Bulgarian meals and is especially popular in the summer. This refreshing salad highlights fresh, locally grown ingredients and represents the Bulgarian philosophy of simple yet flavorful cooking.
