Shopska salad is one of the most famous salads of the Balkans, said to have originated in Bulgaria but quickly embraced across the region. It became popular in the 20th century as a simple dish showcasing local vegetables and brined cheese, and today it’s a staple in Macedonia, Serbia, and beyond. With crisp vegetables, salty cheese, and just a drizzle of oil, it’s the perfect side for grilled meats or a refreshing light meal on its own.
Ingredients (2 servings)
- 2 tomatoes (ripe, chopped)
- 1 cucumber (peeled, chopped)
- 1 green pepper (chopped)
- 1 small onion (sliced)
- 100g white brined cheese (feta-style, grated)
(Salt and sunflower oil optional, not counted in the 5 core ingredients.)
Instructions
- Chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and pepper into bite-sized pieces.
- Slice the onion thinly and add to the vegetables in a large bowl.
- Drizzle with a little sunflower oil and season lightly with salt.
- Toss gently to combine and transfer to a serving plate.
- Grate or crumble the cheese generously on top and serve fresh.
Tips & Variations
- Chill the vegetables before chopping for extra crispness.
- Add a few olives for color and flavor (common variation).
- Best served immediately as a side to grilled meat or with fresh bread.
