Eastern Arabian Twist on Shopska Salad

Ingredients

In this Arabian adaptation of Shopska Salad, we incorporate Middle Eastern spices like cumin and sumac to infuse the dish with a unique flavor profile. Additionally, we enhance the sweetness of the salad by drizzling it with pomegranate molasses, a staple in Eastern Arabian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Shopska Salad, so you can check it out.

• 4 ripe tomatoes, diced 4 ripe tomatoes, diced
• 2 cucumbers, diced 2 cucumbers, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 200g (7oz) feta cheese, crumbled 200g (7oz) feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sumac 1 teaspoon sumac
• 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 210 kcal / 880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 8g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onion.
2. 2.
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, ground cumin, sumac, salt, and pepper.
3. 3.
   Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
4. 4.
   Transfer the salad to a serving platter and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top.
5. 5.
   Drizzle the pomegranate molasses over the salad.
6. 6.
   Garnish with fresh parsley.
7. 7.
   Serve immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Feta cheese — For a creamier texture, choose a high-quality feta cheese made from sheep's milk. If unavailable, you can substitute it with a mild goat cheese.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavors, allow the salad to marinate in the dressing for 10-15 minutes before serving.
• For an extra crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds to the salad.
• Adjust the amount of spices and pomegranate molasses according to your taste preferences.

Serving advice

Serve the Arabian Delight Salad as a refreshing appetizer or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or kebabs. It pairs well with warm pita bread or Arabic flatbread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the colorful diced vegetables in an attractive pattern on the serving platter. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the salad and drizzle the pomegranate molasses in an artistic manner. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of green color.