Shopska Salad (Bulgarian Fresh Vegetable Salad)

Experience the bright and refreshing flavors of Bulgarian cuisine with Shopska Salad, a simple yet vibrant dish made from fresh vegetables and topped with crumbly white cheese. Perfect as a starter, side dish, or light meal, Shopska Salad brings the crispness of summer produce to your table with every bite.

Ingredients

• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 100g feta cheese or Bulgarian white cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables

   Wash all vegetables thoroughly. Dice the tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Finely chop the red onion.

2. Assemble the Salad

   Place the diced tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and onion in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with sunflower or olive oil and red wine vinegar if using. Season lightly with salt.

3. Add the Cheese

   Crumble the feta or Bulgarian white cheese over the top of the salad evenly.

4. Garnish and Serve

   Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled meats or bread.

Serving

Shopska Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Its crisp textures and tangy cheese topping make it a favorite for warm-weather dining.