Šopska Salata sa Pečenom Paprikom
A refreshing and vibrant salad, a variation of the classic Šopska Salata, featuring roasted bell peppers for a smoky depth, combined with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a generous topping of grated sirene cheese.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 large Bell peppers(mixed colors (red, yellow, green))
- 3 medium Tomatoes(ripe, chopped)
- 1 large Cucumber(peeled and chopped)
- 0.5 medium Red onion(thinly sliced)
- 150 g Sirene cheese (Bulgarian or Feta)(grated or crumbled)
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley(chopped)
- 4 tbsp Sunflower oil(or other neutral oil)
- 2 tbsp Red wine vinegar
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F) or preheat a grill. Place the whole bell peppers on a baking sheet or directly on the grill grates. Roast for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is blackened and blistered.
- 2
Transfer the roasted peppers to a bowl and cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. Let them steam for about 10-15 minutes. This will make peeling easier.
- 3
Once cooled enough to handle, peel the skin off the peppers. Remove the stems and seeds, then chop the roasted peppers into bite-sized pieces.
- 4
In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped tomatoes, cucumber, sliced red onion, and chopped roasted peppers.
- 5
In a small bowl, whisk together the sunflower oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
- 6
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
- 7
Just before serving, sprinkle the grated sirene cheese and chopped fresh parsley over the top of the salad.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For an authentic smoky flavor, charring the peppers over an open flame on a gas stove is also an option.
- ✓Use ripe, firm vegetables for the best texture and flavor.
- ✓Adjust the amount of vinegar and oil to your preference.
- ✓This salad is best served immediately after preparation to maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
🔄 Variations
- Add a few pitted Kalamata olives for a briny kick.
- Include a finely chopped clove of garlic in the dressing.
- For a spicier salad, add a finely chopped fresh chili pepper.