Shopska Salad — The Balkan Salad With Tomatoes, Cucumber and White Cheese

Shopska salad is one of the most popular salads of the Balkans, originating from Bulgaria but beloved throughout the region. It is simple, fresh and colorful — often served as a meze with rakia, but also as a side to grilled dishes.

Its secret is the freshness of the vegetables and the white cheese sprinkled on top at the very last moment.

Ingredients

For 4 people:

• 4 ripe tomatoes, medium
• 1 large cucumber
• 1 small onion (or spring onions)
• 1 sweet green pepper (optional)
• 150 g white cheese (cow’s or sheep’s cheese)
• 3–4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon wine vinegar (to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation steps

1. Wash the tomatoes, cucumber, pepper and parsley well. Cut the tomatoes into medium cubes, the cucumber into slices or cubes, and the pepper into thin strips.
2. Slice the onion into thin half-rings and add it to a large bowl with the cut vegetables.
3. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, vinegar and olive oil. Toss gently so the vegetables marinate evenly.
4. Let the salad rest 10 minutes in the refrigerator so the flavors meld.
5. Before serving, grate the white cheese on a fine grater and spread it in a thick layer over the salad — as it is traditionally served, with the cheese always on top.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve chilled.

Preparation: 15 minutes. Cooking: none. Servings: 4 people.