Cypriot Koukouvagia (Owl) Salad
Koukouvagia, also known as Dakos in Crete, is a refreshing and wholesome salad featuring barley rusks topped with grated tomatoes, feta or mizithra cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. It's a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer, embodying the fresh flavors of the Mediterranean.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 pieces Cretan barley rusks (dakos)
- 2 medium Ripe tomatoes(finely grated)
- 150 g Feta cheese(crumbled)
- 3 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp Fine sea salt
- 1 tsp Dried oregano(or other Greek herbs)
- optional Pitted Kalamata olives(for garnish)
- optional Pickled vine tops(for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Lightly dampen the barley rusks with a little cold water. Be careful not to soak them completely, as they should retain some crispness.
💡 Tip: Alternatively, you can skip this step if you plan to let the tomato juice soften them for a few minutes. - 2
Place the dampened rusks on a serving plate or individual plates.
💡 Tip: Ensure the cut side is facing upwards to hold the toppings. - 3
Spread the grated tomato evenly over the surface of each rusk. Sprinkle lightly with fine sea salt.
💡 Tip: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor and moisture. - 4
Crumble the feta cheese over the grated tomato.
- 5
Drizzle generously with extra virgin olive oil.
💡 Tip: A good quality olive oil will significantly enhance the flavor. - 6
Sprinkle with dried oregano or your preferred Greek herb mix. Add optional Kalamata olives or pickled vine tops for extra flavor.
- 7
Serve immediately to prevent the rusks from becoming too soggy.
💡 Tip: This salad is best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rusks are not overly wet, as they should provide a textural contrast to the toppings.
- ✓Adjust the amount of salt and olive oil to your personal preference.
- ✓This dish is a great example of the simple, fresh ingredients used in Mediterranean cuisine.
🔄 Variations
- Add thinly sliced cucumber or red onion for extra freshness.
- A small amount of capers can add a briny kick.