Salads
Shopska Salad
Ingredients
- - 3 ripe tomatoes, diced
- - 2 cucumbers, diced
- - 1 green or red pepper, diced
- - 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- - 150 g (5 oz) sirene or feta cheese, grated
- - 2 tbsp sunflower or olive oil
- - 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- - Salt, to taste
- - Fresh parsley, chopped, to garnish
Method
- Combine tomato, cucumber, pepper and onion in a large bowl.
- Dress with oil, vinegar and salt, and toss gently.
- Divide between plates and grate sirene generously over the top.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Introduction: Bulgaria's national salad, Shopska combines ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and onion, finished with a generous grating of sirene cheese on top to resemble snow over the red-white-green colors of the Bulgarian flag.
Cultural Background: Bulgaria's national salad, Shopska combines ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and onion, finished with a generous grating of sirene cheese on top to resemble snow over the red-white-green colors of the Bulgarian flag.
Tips: Use the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes available; this salad depends on their quality. Grate the cheese just before serving so it stays light and fluffy.
Variations: Add roasted pepper strips for a smokier flavor. Some households add a few black olives, though this is a modern addition. Vegetarian as written; use plant-based feta for a vegan version.
Storage: Best eaten fresh; if needed, store undressed vegetables for up to 1 day and dress just before serving.
Reheating: Served cold; not reheated.
Nutrition: Approx. 190 kcal, 8g protein, 14g fat, 9g carbs per serving.
FAQs:
Q: Is Shopska salad always served with grated cheese?
A: Yes, the grated sirene on top is a defining feature of the dish.
Q: Can I substitute the cheese?
A: A firm, salty feta is the closest common substitute for sirene.