Shopsky salad

Shopsky salad

26
2
25min
525g
Nutrition per 100g
3
1
4
6
85
This Shopsky salad is a vibrant example of Bulgarian cuisine, known for its simplicity and rich flavor. Roasted peppers add a subtle smoky note, while feta cheese brings a tangy creaminess. Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes create the perfect balance. The layered presentation makes it both delicious and visually stunning. A great choice for a summer lunch or an outdoor dinner.
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WHAT YOU WILL NEED

From ingredients

6 products

SIMPLE PROCESS

Step by step recipe

The key is properly roasted peppers: char them until black, then peel off the skin easily to release their smoky aroma. Chop the vegetables coarsely and layer them — this preserves texture and lets each ingredient shine. The oil and vinegar dressing adds freshness. Don't stir the salad before serving — that's the hallmark of a true Shopsky salad!

Roast the Peppers
Step 1

Roast the Peppers

Wash and dry the peppers. Char them in a dry skillet or oven until blackened on all sides. Transfer to a bowl, cover with a lid or plastic wrap for 5 minutes, then peel off the skin and remove the seeds. Slice the peppers into strips.

Slice the Vegetables
Step 2

Slice the Vegetables

Slice the onion into thin half-rings. Slice the cucumbers and tomatoes into thick rounds (½–1 inch).

Layer the Salad
Step 3

Layer the Salad

In a salad bowl, layer the ingredients in this order: onion, roasted peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes. Do not stir.

Add the Cheese
Step 4

Add the Cheese

Crumble the feta coarsely over the top of the salad.

Dress
Step 5

Dress

In a small bowl, mix the oil and vinegar. Drizzle the dressing over the salad without stirring.

Serve
Step 6

Serve

Serve immediately, keeping the layers intact. Enjoy!

CHEF'S TIP

Roast the Peppers Properly

Char the peppers in a dry skillet or oven until blackened. Transfer to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap for 5 minutes, then easily peel off the skin. Don't rinse the peppers — it washes away the smoky flavor.

Chop Vegetables Coarsely

Cut peppers into strips or chunks, cucumbers and tomatoes into thick slices (½–1 inch). This preserves texture and makes the salad more substantial.

Don't Stir the Salad

In a Shopsky salad, the layers are not mixed — each ingredient stays separate. This allows you to enjoy each component's unique flavor. The dressing is evenly distributed over the top layers.

Use Good-Quality Feta

Use feta from cow's or sheep's milk with medium saltiness. Crumble it coarsely over the salad — it shouldn't completely cover the vegetables.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Add your taste

  • With Feta-Style Cheese Replace feta with a similar brined cheese — it's creamier and also works well. You can crumble or cube it.
  • With Olive Oil Use extra virgin olive oil instead of regular vegetable oil for a richer, more Mediterranean taste.
  • Add Black Olives Add a handful of black olives on top for a tangy kick and a more Greek-style flavor.
  • With Lemon Juice Instead of Vinegar Replace vinegar with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a softer, fruitier dressing.

HOW TO STORE

How to Store Shopsky Salad

Best eaten fresh. If you have leftovers, store in the fridge in a covered container without stirring for up to 1 day. Do not freeze — vegetables lose texture. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.

GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently asked questions