Shirazi Salad is a refreshing, light, and tangy Persian cucumber and tomato salad that originates from Shiraz, Iran. Made with simple ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and a bright citrus dressing, this healthy salad is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a refreshing appetizer. It’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Light, refreshing, and packed with fresh flavors
- Quick and easy—ready in under 15 minutes
- Naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low-carb
- Pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or Mediterranean meals
- Perfect for summer gatherings or as a healthy snack
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 Persian cucumbers (or 1 large English cucumber), finely diced
- 3 medium tomatoes, finely diced (Roma or vine-ripened work best)
- ½ small red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice for a more traditional version)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- 1 tablespoon dried mint (or fresh mint, finely chopped)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Chop the vegetables: Finely dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into small, even pieces. Transfer to a large bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil (if using), dried mint, salt, and black pepper.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the chopped vegetables and gently toss until everything is well combined.
- Chill: Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Chill time: 10-15 minutes (optional)
- Total time: 15-20 minutes
Variations
- Traditional Lime Dressing: Use Persian dried lime powder (limoo amani) for a more authentic flavor.
- Spicy Shirazi Salad: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a hint of heat.
- Herb Boost: Add fresh dill or basil for extra herbal flavor.
- Pomegranate Twist: Add pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness and color.
Storage
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Do not freeze: The fresh vegetables will lose their texture when frozen.
FAQs
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Persian cucumbers?
Yes, but remove the seeds from regular cucumbers to prevent the salad from becoming watery.
What makes Shirazi Salad different from other cucumber-tomato salads?
The unique use of dried mint and traditional lime (or lemon) juice gives this salad its distinct Persian flavor.
Can I make Shirazi Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. The flavors will continue to develop as it chills.
Is olive oil necessary in Shirazi Salad?
No, traditional Shirazi Salad doesn’t include olive oil, but it can be added for extra richness if desired.
What dishes pair well with Shirazi Salad?
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, rice dishes like Persian tahdig, or Mediterranean favorites like hummus and falafel.
Can I use white onion instead of red onion?
Yes, but red onion adds a milder flavor and a pop of color.
How do I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?
Remove the seeds from the cucumbers and tomatoes if using varieties with high water content.
Is Shirazi Salad vegan?
Yes, this salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
Can I use lime instead of lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice is traditionally used in authentic Persian recipes.
How long can Shirazi Salad sit out?
It can be left out for up to 2 hours at room temperature but is best served chilled.
Conclusion
This Shirazi Salad is a simple, refreshing, and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any meal, especially during warmer months. With its fresh vegetables, bright citrus dressing, and hint of mint, it’s a versatile dish that complements a wide variety of main courses. Quick to prepare and packed with healthy ingredients, this salad is sure to become a go-to favorite!
Print
Shirazi Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Persian, Middle Eastern
Description
Shirazi Salad is a refreshing Persian salad made with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and finely chopped onions, all tossed in a simple lemony dressing. It’s light, healthy, and the perfect side dish for grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a fresh addition to any Middle Eastern-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 2 Persian cucumbers (or 1 large English cucumber), finely diced
- 3 ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1 small red onion, finely diced (or white onion for a milder flavor)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried mint)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or lime juice for a sharper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, traditional recipes often omit this)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the vegetables:
- Dice the cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion into small, uniform pieces. This ensures that every bite has a good balance of flavors.
2. Mix the salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, tomatoes, onion, parsley, and mint.
3. Make the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Toss and chill:
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well combined.
- Refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve:
- Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or flatbread.
Notes
- Use seedless cucumbers to prevent excess water in the salad.
- For extra crunch, add diced green bell pepper.
- Dried mint is traditionally used in Persian cuisine and adds a stronger minty flavor than fresh mint.