Simple Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad is a light, refreshing Persian salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs, all tossed in a simple citrus dressing. It’s a staple in Persian cuisine and pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a refreshing side for any meal. With its crisp texture and zesty flavors, this salad is both healthy and delicious.

Unlike heavier salads, Shirazi Salad is naturally hydrating and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. The key ingredients—cucumber, tomato, and onion—are finely diced, ensuring every bite is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for kebabs, inside wraps, or as a light appetizer, this salad is easy to make and packed with nutrition.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients Overview

• Cucumbers: Persian cucumbers work best for their crisp texture.
• Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, balancing the tart dressing.
• Red Onion: Adds a mild, sharp contrast.
• Lemon & Olive Oil: The simple dressing that enhances all flavors.
• Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint for authentic Mediterranean freshness.

Ingredients

• 2 Persian cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber), finely diced
• 2 medium tomatoes, finely diced
• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon sumac (optional, for extra tang)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Finely dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into small, even pieces.
2. Chop parsley and mint for fresh flavor.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sumac (if using).

Step 3: Toss & Serve

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and toss well.
2. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve immediately or chill for a more refreshing taste.

Prep Time

10 minutes

Total Time

10 minutes

Nutrition (per serving, ~4 servings)

• Calories: ~45
• Fat: ~3g
• Carbohydrates: ~5g
• Fiber: ~1g

Expert Tips

• For Best Flavor: Let the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving.
• Keep it Crisp: Avoid over-mixing to prevent the cucumbers from becoming mushy.
• Add More Flavor: A sprinkle of feta cheese or pomegranate seeds gives a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I make Shirazi Salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours, but it’s best eaten fresh.

What can I serve this with?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, rice dishes, falafel, or pita bread.

Can I use other herbs?
Absolutely! Dill or cilantro are great alternatives to parsley and mint.

Storing & Freezing

• Storing: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the vegetables lose their texture.

Substitutions & Variations

• No Red Onion? Use green onions for a milder flavor.
• Zesty Twist: Add a pinch of ground cumin for extra depth.
• Creamy Version: Mix in a spoonful of yogurt for a refreshing, creamy texture.

Simple Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad is a **light, refreshing Persian salad** made with **cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and fresh herbs**, all tossed in a simple citrus dressing.

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Equipment

• - Cutting board
• - Sharp knife
• - Mixing bowl
• - Measuring spoons
• - Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients

  

• - 2 Persian cucumbers or 1 English cucumber, finely diced
• - 2 medium tomatoes finely diced
• - 1/2 small red onion finely diced
• - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• - 1 tablespoon fresh mint chopped (optional)
• - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or lime juice
• - 1 tablespoon olive oil
• - 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
• - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• - 1/4 teaspoon sumac optional, for extra tang

Instructions

 

• #### **Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables**
• Finely dice **cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion** into small, even pieces.
• Chop **parsley and mint** for fresh flavor.
• #### **Step 2: Make the Dressing**
• In a small bowl, whisk together **lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sumac (if using).**
• #### **Step 3: Toss & Serve**
• Combine all ingredients in a **mixing bowl** and toss well.
• Let sit for **10 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve immediately or chill for a more refreshing taste.