Veracruz-style Ovcharska Salad

Ingredients

In this Veracruz-style adaptation, the traditional Bulgarian Ovcharska Salad is infused with the vibrant flavors of Veracruz cuisine. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of ingredients commonly found in Veracruz, such as lime juice, jalapenos, avocado, and black beans. These additions bring a refreshing and tangy twist to the classic Bulgarian salad, creating a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Ovcharska Salad, so you can check it out.

• 2 large tomatoes, diced (480g) 2 large tomatoes, diced (480g)
• 1 cucumber, peeled and diced (200g) 1 cucumber, peeled and diced (200g)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced (150g) 1 red bell pepper, diced (150g)
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced (100g) 1 red onion, thinly sliced (100g)
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (15g) 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and finely chopped (15g)
• 1 avocado, diced (200g) 1 avocado, diced (200g)
• 1 cup (200g) cooked black beans 1 cup (200g) cooked black beans
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 210 kcal / 879 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 23g, 5g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, jalapeno pepper, avocado, and black beans.
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
5. 5.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados that are slightly soft to the touch. To prevent browning, toss the diced avocado with a little lime juice before adding it to the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, leave the seeds in the jalapeno pepper.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the jalapeno pepper with a milder chili pepper.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as corn or radishes for additional crunch and flavor.
• Serve the salad as a side dish with grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
• This salad tastes even better when prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving advice

Serve the Veracruz-style Ovcharska Salad chilled as a refreshing side dish or as a light and healthy main course. It pairs well with grilled seafood, chicken, or as a topping for tacos or tostadas.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves. The vibrant colors of the vegetables and the contrasting textures will make the salad visually appealing.