Macedonian Salad

Macedonian Salad - A fresh blend of mouthwatering ingredients in Champagne Vinaigrette

This fresh chilled salad is mouthwatering and addictive, all the ingredients come together for an exquisite explosion of flavors. Simple to make, with a balance of flavors and textures that make it irresistable. It pairs well with so many things...perfect with a grilled steak or other protein, on top of greens, or made a heartier chilled version by tossing in pasta or other carb. Simple and fabulous! Always a sell out at my restaurant, serve this simple salad with crusty bread to soak up the extra champagne vinaigrette! Perfect with my challah bread, recipe link here. My Macedonian restaurateur grandfather would approve!

MACEDONIAN SALAD RECIPE

Prep Time: 20 minutes Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup pitted kalamata olives

• 1 cup pitted jumbo green olives

• 1 cup jumbo pitted black olives

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, left whole or cut in half

• 1 peeled, seeded, diced English cucumber

• 1 12 ounce can of artichoke hearts (packed in water), drained, rinsed, and hand shredded

• 1 small red onion, very finely diced

• 4 ounces of well crumbled feta cheese

Combine all ingredients in a large non-reactive bowl. Set aside as you make the vinaigrette.

Champagne Vinaigrette:

• 1/2 cup olive oil

• 1/4 cup champagne vinegar

• 1 tbsp. Konriko or other Greek Seasoning

• 1-2 tsp white sugar

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp white pepper

• 1/2 tsp sage

• 1 tsp oregano

• salt, to taste

METHOD:

1. Thoroughly whisk all vinaigrette ingredients together.

2. Pour over salad.

3. Let the salad marinate 8-12 hours in the refrigerator to allow flavors to meld.

A few Chef Paula's Tips:

Regarding artichoke hearts, I prefer the smaller hearts as they seem to be more tender. Regardless, if present, make sure to remove the outer leaves if they are tough and leathery.

Be sure to buy artichockes packed in water, not oil.

I specify Champagne vinegar in this recipe because it has an earthy, fragrant, subtle taste that compliments and heightens the flavor of the salad ingredients. You can find Champagne vinegar at most high-end grocery stores or food markets. It's a little pricey, but worth every penny.

This mouth-watering salad is irresistable. Enjoy!