Mediterranean-Style Salad (Shopski Style)
Looking for a refreshing and colorful dish? This Mediterranean-Style Salad (Shopski Style) is a vibrant and simple recipe packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, grilled bell peppers, and creamy brynza cheese. It’s a perfect warm-weather salad that brings out the best in fresh vegetables and Mediterranean flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean-Style Salad (Shopski Style)
- Packed with fresh vegetables and healthy fats
- Quick and easy to make
- Perfect for summer meals, barbecues, or a light lunch
- Full of color, flavor, and nutrients
- Inspired by a traditional Balkan favorite
Ingredients for a Mediterranean-Style Salad (Shopski Style)
- 3–4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 long (English) cucumber, peeled
- 1 bell pepper (can be used raw or lightly sautéed)
- 1/4 red onion
- 60 g feta cheese (or use brynza if available)
- A handful of Kalamata or black olives
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make a Mediterranean-Style Salad (Shopski Style)
Step 1 – Prepare the vegetables
Wash and chop the tomatoes. Peel and slice the cucumber. Thinly slice the red onion. Dice the bell pepper — you can leave it raw for a crisp bite or lightly fry it in a dry pan for a touch of smokiness.
Step 2 – Combine ingredients
Place the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion in a large salad bowl. Add the olives and crumble the feta or brynza on top.
Step 3 – Dress the salad
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and season with a little salt. Gently toss to combine. Top with fresh chopped parsley and serve.
Tips for the Best Mediterranean Salad
- Use ripe, flavorful vegetables — the taste depends on the quality and freshness of your ingredients.
- Lightly coat the bell pepper in olive oil and sauté it if you prefer a warmer, richer flavor.
- If using brynza, remember it’s saltier than feta, so adjust the added salt accordingly.
- Let the salad rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.
Looking for a delicious side to pair with this refreshing Mediterranean-style salad? Try our Garlic Yogurt Flatbread for a perfect match. Its warm, savory flavors are the ideal accompaniment to the crisp and tangy salad!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients a few hours ahead and keep them in the fridge. However, for the best texture and flavor, add the olive oil, salt, and parsley just before serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta and brynza are traditional, you can also use goat cheese or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
What can I use instead of olives?
If you’re not a fan of olives, you can skip them or replace them with capers or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a similar salty depth.
Is this salad vegetarian and gluten-free?
Yes, this Shopski-style Mediterranean salad is naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. Just make sure your cheese doesn’t contain any animal rennet if you follow a strict vegetarian diet.
Can I use green bell pepper instead of red or yellow?
Yes! Any color of bell pepper works. Red and yellow are sweeter, while green is more peppery and bold — choose based on your flavor preference.
Mediterranean-Style Salad with Feta, Olives & Fresh Vegetables
Ingredients
- 3 –4 ripe tomatoes
- 1 long cucumber peeled
- 1 bell pepper Bulgarian or regular
- ¼ red onion
- 60 g brynza cheese or use feta as an alternative
- A handful of olives Kalamata or black olives
- 1 –2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly.
- Peel the cucumber, slice lengthwise, and cut into half-moons.
- Cut the tomatoes into small wedges or chunks.
- Thinly slice the red onion.
- Slice the bell pepper and lightly grill in a pan for 4–5 minutes for extra flavor, or use fresh if preferred.
- Add all the chopped vegetables and olives to a salad bowl.
- Crumble the brynza cheese over the top.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
- Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and gently toss before serving.
