World Flavors Cookbook

Shopska Salad

Bulgaria's most famous salad — a refreshing mix of chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions, topped with a generous layer of grated sirene (white brined cheese). The colors of the ingredients mimic the Bulgarian flag.

Cuisine: Bulgaria

Ingredients

• 4 large tomatoes, chopped
• 2 cucumbers, chopped
• 2 green or red peppers, roasted or fresh, chopped
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 150g sirene (Bulgarian white brined cheese) or high-quality feta, grated
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar, and season with a pinch of salt. Toss gently to combine.
3. Divide the salad into serving plates.
4. Grate the sirene cheese over the top of each salad until the vegetables are completely covered.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and an olive if desired.