Montenegrin-style Salted Anchovy Salad

Ingredients

In Montenegrin cuisine, the Salata od slanih inćuna (Salted Anchovy Salad) is adapted by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The Montenegrin version emphasizes the use of fresh Mediterranean vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers, which are abundant in the region. The dressing is kept simple with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. This adaptation reflects the culinary traditions and preferences of Montenegro. We alse have the original recipe for Salata od slanih inćuna, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7 oz) salted anchovies 200g (7 oz) salted anchovies
• 2 large tomatoes, diced 2 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 100g (3.5 oz) Kalamata olives, pitted 100g (3.5 oz) Kalamata olives, pitted
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 8g (Sugars: 4g)
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the salted anchovies under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat them dry with a paper towel and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to make the dressing.
4. 4.
   Add the anchovies to the bowl of vegetables and pour the dressing over the salad.
5. 5.
   Gently toss the salad until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. 6.
   Let the salad marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Anchovies — Rinse the salted anchovies thoroughly to remove excess salt and pat them dry before adding them to the salad.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder flavor, you can soak the salted anchovies in milk for 10 minutes before rinsing them.
• Adjust the amount of lemon juice and salt according to your taste preferences.
• Add some chopped fresh basil or mint for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Montenegrin-style Salted Anchovy Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood. It pairs well with crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the salad on a platter, garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley, and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil over the top for an elegant presentation.