Salad with everything (Bulgarian)

Salad with Everything - an Explosion of Flavors and Colors

When we think of a versatile salad that brings together the most delicious ingredients and offers us an unforgettable culinary experience, the salad with everything is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to utilize a variety of fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients. The Bulgarian salad combines tradition with innovation, having deep roots in gastronomic culture, where each ingredient is carefully selected to create a medley of textures and flavors.

Total preparation time: 45 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 3 fresh cucumbers
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 red bell pepper
- 150 g feta cheese
- 200 g Delaco cheese
- 2 boiled eggs
- 100 g bacon
- 150 g pitted olives
- 2 onions
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 tablespoon of mustard
- Salt to taste
- Oil for mayonnaise

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the onion. Cut the onion into scales, then place it in a bowl. Sprinkle salt over the onion and drizzle with lemon juice. This trick not only reduces the bitterness of the onion but also gives it a touch of freshness. Let the onion "marinate" in this mixture, stirring occasionally.

2. Boiling the eggs: Place the eggs in a pot with cold water and boil for 10-12 minutes. Once boiled, remove them and let them cool before slicing them into rounds. This step is crucial for achieving an aesthetically pleasing look for the salad.

3. Cutting the vegetables: Cut the tomatoes and cucumbers into cubes, and the green bell pepper and red bell pepper into thin strips (julienne). Make sure the vegetables are fresh and crunchy to add texture to the salad. Cut the bacon into rectangular slices, and leave the olives whole but pitted.

4. Preparing the mayonnaise: For a simple mayonnaise, use an egg yolk, a teaspoon of mustard, salt, and oil. Whisk the ingredients together until you achieve a creamy consistency. This sauce will add richness and bind the ingredients together.

5. Assembling the salad: In a large bowl, begin layering the ingredients. The first layer will be marinated onion, followed by tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, bacon, and olives. Then, add a layer of mayonnaise and sprinkle grated feta cheese on top. Continue this procedure until all ingredients are used. Finally, garnish the surface with finely chopped fresh dill.

6. Serving: The salad can be enjoyed immediately, but it is also delicious after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld. I recommend serving it alongside potato pudding and liver with sauce for a complete and satisfying meal.

Useful tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh, colorful vegetables to give your salad a vibrant appearance. The quality of the ingredients makes a difference in taste.
- Possible variations: You can add avocado for a creamy texture, or replace bacon with a vegetarian product like tofu or tempeh for a vegan option.
- Serving combinations: This salad pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine or a fruit cocktail. You can also accompany it with fresh homemade bread.
- Nutritional benefits: The salad is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Tomatoes and cucumbers provide a significant amount of antioxidants, while feta cheese offers calcium and protein.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like feta or mozzarella, depending on your preferences.
- Is the salad good for a diet? Yes, it is a healthy choice, but be mindful of the amount of mayonnaise if you are watching your calorie intake.
- Can it be prepared a day in advance? Absolutely! In fact, letting the salad sit in the refrigerator overnight will intensify the flavors.

I encourage you to try this salad recipe with everything and enjoy every bite. It is a perfect choice for meals with friends or family, as well as a great way to indulge your taste buds at any time of the day. Enjoy your meal!