Lovačka Salata, also known as “Hunter’s Salad,” is a traditional Serbian salad that is hearty and robust, often featuring ingredients like mixed vegetables, mushrooms, and sometimes meat or bacon. This salad is popular for its rich, earthy flavors, which are enhanced by marinating the vegetables. It’s typically served as a side dish with grilled meats, stews, or as part of a meze platter. Lovačka Salata is known for its savory and slightly tangy taste, making it a versatile dish in Serbian cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 2 large bell peppers (red or green), chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1-2 carrots, grated
• 200g mushrooms, sliced
• 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: diced bacon or smoked sausage for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

   • In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onions and cook until they become soft and translucent.
   • Add the grated carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the chopped bell peppers and continue to cook until they soften.

2. Cook the Mushrooms:

   • Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
   • If you’re adding bacon or sausage, add them at this stage and cook until they are nicely browned and slightly crispy.

3. Season the Salad:

   • Add the minced garlic, vinegar or lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Stir well to combine all the flavors.

4. Marinate:

   • Remove the salad from the heat and let it cool slightly.
   • For the best flavor, allow the salad to marinate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

5. Serve:

   • Serve Lovačka Salata warm or at room temperature as a side dish with grilled meats or as part of a larger meal.

Nutritional Information (per 100g serving):

• Calories: ~85 kcal
• Proteins: ~2g
• Carbs: ~6g
• Fiber: ~2g

Nutritional Summary: Lovačka Salata is a moderately low-calorie dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates and fiber, thanks to the vegetables. The protein content can vary depending on whether meat is added. This salad is rich in vitamins and minerals, especially if a variety of vegetables are used, making it a nutritious and flavorful addition to any meal.