June 20, 2025 — Bulgaria’s iconic Shopska salad has earned global recognition, making it into CNN’s latest roundup of the best salads in the world. The celebrated dish is featured among 24 standout salads, handpicked from various corners of the globe for their unique flavors, cultural significance, and culinary appeal.
CNN’s list, published this week, showcases globally revered creations like Mexico’s Caesar salad, Greece’s Horiatiki, France’s Niçoise, and the American Cobb salad. But it is the Shopska salad — a fresh, vibrant medley of ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, roasted peppers, onions, parsley, and grated Bulgarian white brined cheese — that stands out, both for its taste and symbolism.
Described by CNN as “Bulgaria’s most famous culinary product,” the Shopska salad is more than just a refreshing summer dish. Its colors — red, green, and white — intentionally mirror those of the Bulgarian national flag, making it not only a staple on the dining table but also a source of national pride.
The article highlights how the salad’s composition is simple yet elegant, with the freshness of the vegetables enhanced by a drizzle of olive oil. The cheese, typically a crumbly sirene, adds a salty contrast that balances the dish. The result is a salad that encapsulates the essence of Balkan cuisine — fresh, local, and hearty.
“Every salad on this list tells a story,” the CNN piece notes. “The Shopska salad tells a story of tradition, identity, and regional ingredients. It’s a dish that tastes like summer and heritage combined.”
Originally created in the 1950s as a culinary representation of Bulgaria’s national character, the Shopska salad was reportedly developed by the state-run Balkantourist agency as part of a campaign to promote Bulgarian cuisine to tourists. Over time, it became beloved not just within Bulgaria but across Southeast Europe, with variations appearing in neighboring countries.
CNN’s selection of an image of Shopska salad as the lead photo for the feature further underscores the dish’s visual and cultural appeal. The photograph, with its striking color palette and rustic presentation, dominated the article’s layout, catching the attention of readers worldwide.
In Bulgaria, the recognition has been met with pride. Local chefs and food enthusiasts have taken to social media to celebrate the international spotlight on what many consider the heart of the Bulgarian table.
“It’s not just food. It’s identity on a plate,” said Sofia-based food writer Petya Ivanova. “To see Shopska salad featured next to world-famous dishes is a proud moment for Bulgarian cuisine.”
As global interest in authentic regional dishes continues to grow, the inclusion of Shopska salad in CNN’s top 24 list is not just a nod to its flavor — it’s a tribute to its story. A salad born of cultural purpose and sustained by national affection now finds itself recognized on the world’s culinary map.