Welcome to the culinary journey through the vibrant and diverse flavors of Bulgaria! In this gastronomic adventure, we present to you the delightful "Bulgaria Elena Salad," a mouthwatering dish that encapsulates the essence of Bulgarian cuisine. Named after the picturesque town of Elena, this salad is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Bulgaria Elena Salad is not just a dish; it's a reflection of the rich agricultural heritage of Bulgaria, where sun-ripened vegetables, hearty cheeses, and traditional spices take center stage. Join us as we delve into the art of crafting this salad, offering you a step-by-step guide to recreate the magic of Bulgaria's culinary tradition in the comfort of your own kitchen. Get ready to embark on a culinary voyage that pays homage to the flavors of Bulgaria with the Bulgaria Elena Salad!

Ingredients:

• 3 large tomatoes, diced
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 200g feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

1-Wash and dice the tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper.

2-Finely chop the red onion.

3-If the feta cheese is not crumbled, crumble it into small pieces.

Combine Ingredients:In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, cucumber, red and green bell peppers, chopped red onion, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced black olives.

Dress the Salad:

1-Drizzle olive oil over the salad.

2-Add red wine vinegar to enhance the flavors.

3-Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Toss and Mix:Gently toss the ingredients together to ensure an even distribution of flavors and dressing.

Garnish:Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the salad for a burst of freshness and color.

Serve:

1-Allow the salad to marinate for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

2-Serve the Bulgaria Elena Salad in individual bowls or as a side dish at your next meal.

This Bulgaria Elena Salad, a variation of the classic Shopska Salad, captures the essence of Bulgarian cuisine with its vibrant colors and fresh, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy this delightful salad as a refreshing appetizer or a light and nutritious side dish. Immerse yourself in the flavors of Bulgaria and savor every bite of the Bulgaria Elena Salad!

Nutritional Values

Here's an approximate nutritional breakdown for the main ingredients in the Bulgaria Elena Salad. Keep in mind that actual nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredient sizes.

3 large tomatoes, diced:

• Calories: 90
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants like lycopene.
• Good source of vitamins C and K.
• Supports heart health and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

1 cucumber, diced:

• Calories: 45
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Hydrating and low in calories.
• Contains vitamins K and B, promoting bone health and energy.
• Provides antioxidants and supports digestion.

1 red bell pepper, diced:

• Calories: 37
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• High in vitamin C, aiding immune function.
• Rich in antioxidants, supporting skin health.
• Contains fiber for digestive health.

1 green bell pepper, diced:

• Calories: 30
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Good source of vitamins A and C.
• Supports eye health and boosts the immune system.
• Low in calories and adds crunch to dishes.

1 red onion, finely chopped:

• Calories: 46
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Supports heart health and may have cancer-fighting properties.
• Adds flavor without extra calories.

200g feta cheese, crumbled:

• Calories: 533
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 21g
• Fat: 45g

benefits:

• Good source of calcium for bone health.
• Provides protein for muscle maintenance.
• Rich in B vitamins and essential minerals.

1/4 cup black olives, pitted and sliced:

• Calories: 45
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 4g

benefits:

• High in monounsaturated fats, promoting heart health.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
• Provides healthy fats for satiety.

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped:

• Calories: 3
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Supports bone health and freshens breath.

2 tablespoons olive oil:

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g

benefits:

• Healthy monounsaturated fats for heart health.
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Enhances nutrient absorption and adds flavor.

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar:

• Calories: 3
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• May have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Aids digestion and adds tangy flavor without extra calories.
• Contains small amounts of minerals like manganese and iron.

Salt and pepper, to taste:

• Negligible in terms of calories, carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

benefits:

• Enhance flavor without adding calories.
• Salt provides essential sodium for bodily functions.
• Both contribute to a well-balanced taste profile.

Remember that these values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands, preparation methods, and the exact quantities used. If you have specific dietary concerns or requirements, it's always a good idea to consult with a nutritionist or use specialized nutritional software for more accurate information.