Shirazi Salad is a vibrant and refreshing side dish hailing from the heart of Persian cuisine. This salad features crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion, all tossed together with fresh herbs like parsley and mint. The tangy lime dressing ties everything together, creating a burst of flavor that complements any Mediterranean or Middle Eastern meal. Perfect for warm weather, this easy-to-make dish is light, healthy, and full of freshness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Shirazi Salad is a simple, healthy, and flavorful addition to any meal. It’s not only quick to prepare but also incredibly refreshing, thanks to the cool crunch of cucumbers and the juicy burst of ripe tomatoes. The aromatic parsley and mint elevate the flavor profile, while the lime dressing adds a delightful zing. This salad is vegan, gluten-free, and low in calories, making it a great choice for almost any dietary preference or occasion. Whether you're serving it alongside grilled meats or as a standalone light meal, it's guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Persian cucumbers, diced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the chopped parsley and mint, and toss gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Variations
- Add Feta or Goat Cheese – For a creamy twist, crumble some feta or goat cheese on top before serving.
- Spicy Shirazi Salad – Add a chopped chili pepper to the salad to introduce some heat to the refreshing flavors.
- Avocado – Dice some avocado and mix it into the salad for a creamy texture and added richness.
- Crispy Chickpeas – Add crispy roasted chickpeas on top for a crunchy, protein-packed addition.
Storage/Reheating
Shirazi Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. The salad will continue to absorb the dressing as it sits, so it may become a bit softer. It's not ideal for freezing due to the high moisture content of the vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, you can substitute regular cucumbers, but Persian cucumbers are typically smaller, thinner-skinned, and less watery, making them a great choice for salads.
2. Is Shirazi Salad vegan?
Yes, Shirazi Salad is naturally vegan, making it a perfect dish for plant-based diets.
3. Can I make Shirazi Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. However, it's best to add the dressing just before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables.
4. Can I add more vegetables to the Shirazi Salad?
Definitely! You can experiment by adding ingredients like bell peppers or radishes for more crunch and color.
5. How do I make the lime dressing?
Simply whisk together lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until emulsified. You can adjust the seasoning to taste.
6. How long does Shirazi Salad last in the fridge?
Shirazi Salad can last up to 1-2 days in the fridge, but it is best consumed fresh for the best texture and flavor.
7. Can I add nuts or seeds to the salad for crunch?
Yes, you can add toasted almonds, pine nuts, or sunflower seeds for an extra crunch.
8. Can I use lemon instead of lime in the dressing?
Yes, lemon can be used as a substitute for lime. It will give the salad a slightly different but still refreshing citrus flavor.
9. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, you can use dried parsley and mint in a pinch. Just be sure to use less, as dried herbs are more concentrated.
10. What type of oil is best for the dressing?
Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for the dressing due to its rich, fruity flavor that complements the fresh vegetables and herbs.
Conclusion
Shirazi Salad is the perfect dish to refresh your palate with its crisp vegetables, fresh herbs, and zesty lime dressing. Quick to prepare and full of bright, vibrant flavors, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. With endless variations and a healthy, vegan base, this salad is a go-to option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a side to complement your main dish, Shirazi Salad is sure to impress!
Shirazi Salad: A Fresh and Tangy Persian Delight
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Shirazi Salad is a fresh, vibrant Persian dish made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onion, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint. Topped with a zesty lime dressing, it’s the perfect light, healthy, and vegan side dish that complements Mediterranean and Middle Eastern meals. Ideal for warm weather and easy to prepare, Shirazi Salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups Persian cucumbers, diced
- 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the chopped parsley and mint, and toss gently to mix.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can customize your Shirazi Salad with feta, goat cheese, avocado, or crispy chickpeas.
- Make it spicier by adding chili peppers.
- Shirazi Salad is best served fresh but can be stored for 1-2 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Persian
