Shirazi Salad Recipe

This Shirazi Salad is a crisp, refreshing dish made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, mixed with fresh herbs and a bright citrusy dressing. Named after the city of Shiraz in Iran, this salad is a perfect side dish to balance rich main courses or as a light appetizer.

Shirazi Salad

I love making Shirazi salad because it’s incredibly simple, vibrant, and refreshing. The combination of juicy tomatoes, cool cucumbers, and fragrant herbs makes it a delicious addition to any meal. It’s quick to prepare and brings a burst of color and flavor to the table. Whether you serve it alongside rice dishes or grilled meats, this salad is a versatile and beautiful addition to any spread.

Pair this salad with Persian Herb Rice (Sabzi Polo) Recipe for a traditional Persian meal or serve it with Grilled Salmon Skewers with Creamy Dill Yogurt Sauce Recipe for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Why You’ll Love This Shirazi Salad Recipe

• Light and Fresh: Perfectly balanced and refreshing, ideal for warm days.
• Simple and Quick: Uses only a few ingredients and can be made in minutes.
• Pairs with Any Meal: Complements rich dishes or grilled proteins beautifully.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Full of antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins.

Main Ingredients for Shirazi Salad

1. Cucumbers – Adds crunch and coolness, best with Persian or English cucumbers.
2. Tomatoes – Juicy and sweet, balancing the flavors in the salad.
3. Red Onion or Shallot – Adds a mild, crisp flavor to the mix.
4. Fresh Herbs – Parsley and mint bring fragrance and freshness.
5. Lemon or Lime Juice – Provides a tangy, bright flavor for the dressing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Shirazi Salad Recipe

Here’s how to make this refreshing and flavorful salad step by step:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice 2 Persian cucumbers, 2 medium tomatoes, and 1 small red onion or shallot into small, uniform pieces. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
   • Tip: Use Persian or English cucumbers for a sweeter, less watery result.
2. Chop the Herbs: Finely chop 1/4 cup fresh parsley and 2 tablespoons fresh mint. Add to the bowl with the vegetables.
   • Pro Tip: For an extra pop of flavor, add a handful of fresh cilantro.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon or lime juice, 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and black pepper to taste.
   • Variation: Add a pinch of ground sumac or dried mint for an authentic Persian twist.
4. Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat the ingredients evenly.
   • Serving Idea: Garnish with extra mint or a sprinkle of sumac for color.
5. Serve and Enjoy: This salad is best enjoyed immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
   • Serving Idea: Pair with warm flatbread or pita for a complete meal.

Extra Tips and Variations

• Use Other Herbs: Add dill or chives for a different herb profile.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad and dressing separately, then combine just before serving to keep it fresh.
• How to Store: Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
• Add Feta or Olives: Mix in crumbled feta or sliced olives for a Mediterranean twist.

Health Benefits of Shirazi Salad

This salad is packed with hydration from cucumbers and tomatoes, while the fresh herbs offer antioxidants and vitamins. Low in calories and high in fiber, it’s a nutritious choice.

• Rich in Antioxidants: Tomatoes are high in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
• Hydrating and Refreshing: Cucumbers have a high water content, perfect for staying hydrated.
• Supports Digestion: Fresh herbs like mint and parsley aid digestion and provide essential vitamins.