Snejanka Salad (Снежанка салата), also known as “Snow White Salad”, is an authentic Bulgarian dish that combines strained yogurt with crisp cucumbers, garlic, and dill. This creates a creamy, tangy, fresh salad that is perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients (For Four People)
- 500 grams of strained Bulgarian yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 medium cucumbers, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon walnuts, crushed (optional, for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar (optional for tanginess)
1 tablespoon is circa 15 ml, and a teaspoon is circa 5 ml.
Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Finely chop the cucumbers and place them in a bowl. If they release too much water, you can lightly salt them and let them drain for 5 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Mix the Yogurt Base
Combine the strained yogurt with the minced garlic, chopped dill, olive oil, and salt in a large bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the Cucumbers
Gently fold the chopped cucumbers into the yogurt mixture. Mix well to ensure the cucumbers are evenly distributed throughout the yogurt.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or a splash of white vinegar for extra tanginess if desired.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the Snejanka Salad to a serving dish. Drizzle with extra olive oil and sprinkle crushed walnuts on top for garnish. Serve chilled.
Tips and Tricks
- Chef’s Recommendation: Use thick, strained yogurt for an authentic Snejanka salad. If your yogurt is too thin, strain it further by placing it in cheesecloth or a fine sieve for a few hours.
- Garlic Flavor: Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. Snejanka is known for its garlicky punch, but you can reduce the amount for a milder version.
- Additional Garnishes: For extra color and flavor, snejanka salad can be garnished with fresh parsley, olives, or a few dill sprigs.
Serving Suggestions
Snejanka Salad is traditionally served as a side dish or dip with grilled meats, bread, or pita. It’s a perfect accompaniment to Kebabs, Mixed Shisheta Kebab, or as part of a meze platter.
Wine Matching
Snejanka can be paired with rakia alcoholic drinks, such as rakia or vodka. Some may find it interesting to pair Snejanka Salad with a crisp Bulgarian white wine such as Misket or a dry Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the refreshing tang of the yogurt and cucumbers.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
Dietary Modifications
- Gluten-Free: This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Unfortunately, this dish is based on yogurt and cannot easily be adapted for dairy-free diets.
Storage Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad may release some water as it sits, so give it a quick stir before serving.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the yogurt will separate when thawed.
About Snejanka Salad (Снежанка)
Snejanka Salad, meaning “Snow White” in Bulgarian, gets its name from its bright white appearance, thanks to the thick, strained yogurt. This dish is a traditional favorite, often served in Bulgaria as a cooling side dish or dip during the summer months. The combination of creamy yogurt, fresh cucumbers, and garlic is refreshing and satisfying, making it a staple in Bulgarian households and restaurants.
Cultural Context
Snejanka Salad is a classic Bulgarian dish enjoyed year-round but is especially popular in warmer months due to its refreshing taste. It’s part of Bulgaria’s rich tradition of yogurt-based dishes, reflecting the country’s long-standing yogurt culture. Bulgaria is famous for its high-quality yogurt, and this dish showcases its versatility in the kitchen.
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