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If you’re looking for a light, refreshing, and easy-to-make salad, Persian Shirazi Salad is the perfect choice. This classic Iranian dish is made with fresh cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onions, and fragrant mint, all tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and packed with flavor, making it an excellent side dish for a variety of meals.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to prepare Shirazi Salad step by step, its health benefits, and why it’s a must-try for anyone who loves fresh, wholesome flavors.
Why You’ll Love Persian Shirazi Salad
- Healthy & Nutritious – Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats.
- Quick & Easy – Takes just 10 minutes to prepare.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free – Suitable for almost all dietary preferences.
- Versatile – Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice dishes, or pita bread.
- Authentic Persian Flavors – A classic Iranian dish with a refreshing taste.
Health Benefits of Shirazi Salad
This Persian cucumber and tomato salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Cucumbers – Hydrating and rich in fiber, promoting digestion.
- Tomatoes – Loaded with antioxidants like lycopene, supporting heart health.
- Red Onions – Provide anti-inflammatory properties and a boost of flavor.
- Mint – Aids digestion and adds a refreshing taste.
- Olive Oil – A source of healthy fats that support heart health.
- Lemon Juice – High in vitamin C, boosting immunity and enhancing flavors.
Ingredient Notes for Persian Shirazi Salad
- Cucumbers – Persian cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture and minimal seeds. If using English cucumbers, remove excess seeds for better texture.
- Tomatoes – Use firm, ripe tomatoes for the best balance of sweetness and acidity. Roma tomatoes work well due to their lower water content.
- Red Onion – Adds a sharp bite; if you prefer a milder flavor, soak the diced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before using.
- Mint – Fresh mint provides the best flavor, but dried mint is a great alternative.
- Lemon Juice – Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the salad’s brightness. Avoid bottled juice for the best taste.
- Olive Oil – Use extra virgin olive oil for a rich, smooth finish.
- Salt & Pepper – Adjust to taste; a pinch of sumac can be added for extra tanginess.
How To Make Persian Shirazi Salad
- Prepare the Vegetables – Finely dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion. For best results, use firm, ripe tomatoes and seedless cucumbers.
- Chop the Mint – Fresh mint adds a burst of flavor, but dried mint works as well if fresh is unavailable.
- Mix the Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and mint.
- Make the Dressing – Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss & Let It Sit – Gently toss all ingredients together and let the salad sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Shirazi Salad pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled meats such as lamb, chicken, or fish.
- Persian dishes like Chelow Kabab or Basmati Rice.
- Middle Eastern mezze platters with hummus, falafel, and pita bread.
- Light summer meals or BBQ spreads.
For an extra twist, try adding pomegranate seeds, feta cheese, or sumac for a different flavor profile.
Tips for the Best Shirazi Salad
- Use firm, fresh ingredients for the best texture and flavor.
- Let the salad rest before serving to enhance the taste.
- Chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes if serving on a hot day.
- Use dried mint if fresh is unavailable—it still adds great flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Shirazi Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a few hours in advance, but for the best taste and texture, add the dressing just before serving.
What’s the best cucumber to use?
Persian cucumbers are ideal because they’re crisp and have fewer seeds, but English cucumbers work well too.
Can I store leftovers?
Shirazi Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Final Thoughts
Persian Shirazi Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings freshness to any meal. With its combination of crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy onions, and zesty dressing, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors.
Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a healthy, delicious salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Did You Try This Recipe?
Let us know in the comments below! If you loved it, don’t forget to share it with your friends and tag us on social media. Happy cooking! 😊
Other Salad Ideas You Might Enjoy
Spicy Cucumber Pomegranate Salad
Vegan Crispy Rice Salad Recipe
Gnocchi Salad with Creamy Dill Dressing
Persian Shirazi Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 baby cucumbers finely diced
- 2 ripe tomatoes finely diced
- 1 red onion finely diced
- 2 tbsp fresh mint finely chopped (or 1 tsp dried mint)
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add the chopped mint.
- Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine all ingredients.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.
