Šopska Salata (Bulgaria)

Šopska Salata is a nicely refreshing summer salad originating in Bulgaria, Serbia and Macedonia, made from tomatoes, cucumbers, onion, raw or roasted peppers, parsley and goat cheese.

The name of the salad derives group from the ethnic group "Shopi". They are a mix of Bulgarians, Macedonians and Serbs inhabiting the region of Shopluk, which covers western Bulgaria and parts of Serbia, Macedonia, Kosovo, Albania and Romania.

A Shopi tradition says that the best dressing for this salad is made when the olive oil is poured by a big spending high-roller, the salt is added by a philosopher and a stingy scrooge adds the vinegar.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium vine-ripened tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 lb English cucumber, sliced
• 1 small red onion or 4 spring onions, sliced
• 1/4 lb feta chese, grated
• 2 pepper (red, yellow or green), roasted, sliced
• Fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• Salt
• Bulgarian Chubriza seasoning (summer savory, salt, red chili powder, fenugreek)
• Black olives, optional

Preparation:

1. Cut all ingredients in slices or cubes.
2. Season with salt, pepper, add the chopped parsley.
3. Mix together vinegar and olive oil.
4. Sprinkle with feta cheese and serve.