Serbian Shopska Salad

5 from 1 vote

This Serbian Shopska Salad is a refreshing mix of chopped tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, and onions. It is lightly dressed with olive oil, salt, and pepper and topped with creamy feta cheese. This vibrant dish highlights fresh, natural flavors and is perfect as a side or appetizer in traditional Balkan cuisine.

Prep Time15

Cook Time0

Total Time15

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Serbian

Servings: servings

Calories: 599kcal

Author: Nataša

Equipment

Mandoline slicer
Knife
large bowl

Ingredients

1 ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 red bell pepper (cut into smaller pieces)
4 sweet mini peppers (cut into small cylinders)
1 cup English cucumber (cut into ¼ inch cylinders)
½ red onion (cut into thin slices)
14 oz feta cheese (in brine)
salt (per taste)
pepper (per taste)
1 drizzle olive oil

Instructions

Prep the onion: Take half of the red onion, remove the outer layer, and cut it into thin slices. Add the slices to a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Set aside while you prepare the other veggies.
Prep other veggies: Wash all the other veggies and de-core the peppers. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half, the bell pepper into smaller pieces, the sweet mini peppers into small cylinders, and the cucumber into ¼ inch cylinders.
Combine and mix the salad: Combine all vegetables except the onion and feta cheese in a large bowl. Lightly drizzle with olive oil, then add salt and pepper, mixing everything until evenly coated. Then add onion and mix again.
Assemble the salad: Divide the salad into two individual bowls and add feta into each bowl. Add dried parsley (or fresh) and serve.

Notes

Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for ripe, in-season vegetables to maximize flavor and texture.
Uniform Chopping: Dice the vegetables evenly for consistent bites and a professional presentation. I recommend using a mandoline slicer for onion and cucumber, especially if you are preparing large quantities.
Add Feta to Individual Portions: To maintain freshness, add feta to each serving, particularly if you intend to store the leftovers.
Customize for Taste: Adjust the oil, salt, and pepper to suit your personal preferences or the meal you’re pairing it with. Less is more, so gradually add salt, pepper, and olive oil and taste as you mix your salad.
Adjust the Quantity of Ingredients: This amount of ingredients will yield a good size for two servings. If you want to make just one salad, halve the ingredients; or if you prefer smaller portions, use fewer ingredients.
Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the salad for 15–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Nutrition