Quick and Easy Shirazi Salad Recipe. Made with cucumber, tomato, and red onion, this refreshing Persian side dish is ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect accompaniment for any meal!
About this Persian Shirazi salad recipe
This is my take on the classic Persian Shirazi salad. I love simplifying recipes and using locally available ingredients, so I’ve made it easier and more accessible.
This Persian cousin is quite similar to the Indian kachumber salad or the Mexican pico de gallo. The key ingredients – cucumber, tomato, and onion – are the same, with the only variation being in the dressing.
The only time-consuming part is prepping the veggies, but I have a little trick to speed up the process. I use a vegetable chopper when I am in a rush, which takes just 10 minutes. Then, it’s simply a matter of tossing the salad veggies with the dressing and enjoying. While I like to let the flavours meld together by allowing it to rest for 15 minutes, you can always serve it immediately.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
- Easy to make: This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal time and effort in the kitchen.
- Budget-friendly: It won’t break the bank, as the ingredients are affordable and readily available.
- No Mayo & No lettuce salad: If you’re looking for a salad without mayo or lettuce, this recipe is perfect for you.
- Versatile to serve: Whether it’s a BBQ, a party appetizer, a starter, or a side dish to complement any meal, this salad can do it all.
- Dietary needs: It caters to various dietary needs, being suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients for Salad-e-Shirazi
- Cucumber: I have used English cucumber as it is easily available in local grocery stores in the UK. For a more authentic Shirazi salad, use Persian or Lebanese cucumbers if available as they are crisp, less watery, and packed with flavour.
- Tomato: Select medium-firm tomatoes such as vine tomatoes or Roma tomatoes. They are full on flavour and less watery.
- Red onion: Provides a mild and sweet onion flavour to the salad. Don’t like the sharp taste, soak the diced onion for 10 minutes before adding it to the salad like in Cold red chutney.
- Lime or Lemon: I use lemon or lime juicein place of the traditional unripe sour grape juice called Ab Ghooreh, as it can be easier to find locally.
- Salt: Add salt to taste, enhancing the overall flavour of the salad.
- Herbs: In this recipe I like to add a delightful blend of fresh mint, dried mint and parsley. Fresh mint adds a refreshing note, while fresh parsley contributes a vibrant flavour. And, dried mint for an extra layer of taste.But it is optional
- Sumac: For an authentic flavour, add sumac, a tangy spice that imparts a unique and zesty flavour to the salad. Skip it if it’s not available.
How to make Shirazi salad: step by step?
- Prep the vegetables: Start by dicing the cucumber, tomato, and onion into 1 cm cubes or small cubes of a similar size.
- Prepare the dressing: In a separate bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, sumac( if using) and salt until well combined.
- Combine the ingredients: Pour the dressing over the diced vegetables, and add the fresh herbs. Mix everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Rest or serve immediately: You have two options. For the flavours to meld together, allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. This will enhance the overall taste. Alternatively, you can serve the salad immediately if you’re pressed for time.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy it on its own or with chickpeas and feta for a light and refreshing meal.
- Pair it with air fryer roasted vegetables, as a part of mezze spread and a yogurt mint sauce for added flavour.
- Serve it as a side dish with green lentil dal, onion bhaji, raita, and paratha for a comforting meal.
- Use it as a delicious topping for pita chips, nachos, or masala papad.
- It’s a versatile side dish that complements any meal, adding vibrant flavours and colours to your dining experience.
Tips to make Simple Shirazi Salad recipe
- Always use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Add the dressing just before serving to keep the flavours fresh.
- Allow the salad to rest for 15 minutes to enhance the melding of flavours.
- For added crunch, try including diced red or green peppers (not an authentic variation).
- Soak red onions in cold water for 15 minutes to reduce sharpness.
- Serve the salad chilled for a refreshing experience.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sumac or extra herbs for an extra flavour boost.
FAQ’s
How to make Dried mint in the microwave at home?
To make dried mint in the microwave at home, start by rinsing fresh mint leaves and patting them dry with a tea towel. Next, place the leaves in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds, until the leaves are completely dry, but still green in colour and crumbly. Once dry, leave the mint as is or crush the leaves into smaller pieces and store them in an airtight container for later use.
What is the difference between Kachumber salad and Persian salad?
Kachumber salad is an Indian salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and spices. Persian salad, known as Shirazi salad, includes cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and a tangy dressing with lime juice or unripe grape juice.
What is Shirazi salad?
Shirazi salad is a traditional Persian salad named after the city of Shiraz in Iran. It is a refreshing and vibrant salad made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions. The dressing for Shirazi salad typically includes lime juice or unripe grape juice(Ab Ghooreh), which adds a tangy and citrusy flavour. It is often seasoned with salt and can be garnished with fresh herbs like mint and parsley. Shirazi salad is known for its light and crisp texture, making it a popular side dish or accompaniment to various Persian meals.
Can I make Shirazi salad in advance?
To make head Shirazi salad,i is best to prepare the vegetables and dressing in advance. But it is recommended to combine them just before serving to maintain the salad’s freshness and texture.
Can I add other vegetables or ingredients to Shirazi salad?
While the traditional Shirazi salad recipe includes cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions, you can add diced bell peppers, fresh herbs, or even crumbled feta cheese for additional flavours and textures.
How long can I store leftover Shirazi salad?
It is recommended to consume Shirazi salad within 1-2 days of preparation for the best taste and freshness. After that, the vegetables may become softer and the flavours less vibrant.
More easy Vegetarian Salad recipes
Quick and Easy Shirazi salad recipe below
Ingredients
- 1 large English cucumber
- 3 vine tomatoes
- ½ medium red onion
- ¼ cup fresh mint diced
- 2 tsp parsley diced
- 1 tsp dried mint
Dressing
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 -4 tbsp lime juice or Ab Ghooreh (unripe sour grape juice)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp Sumac optional
Instructions
- Dice the English cucumber, vine tomatoes, and red onion into 1 cm cubes or small cubes of similar size.1 large English cucumber, 3 vine tomatoes, ½ medium red onion
- Combine the diced vegetables and herbs in a serving bowl.¼ cup fresh mint, 2 tsp parsley, 1 tsp dried mint
- Add the olive oil, lime juice, sumac( if using) and salt over the vegetables and herbs. Toss ensuring they are evenly coated.2 tbsp olive oil, 3 -4 tbsp lime juice, Salt to taste, 1 tsp Sumac
- If time allows, let the salad rest in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to allow the flavours to meld together.Alternatively, you can serve the salad immediately if preferred.
- Enjoy the refreshing flavours of Shirazi salad as a side dish or accompaniment to your meal.
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