Shirazi Salad is a traditional Persian dish that epitomizes the essence of fresh, vibrant flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a refreshing appetizer, this light and healthy salad combines diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions with a simple lemon juice and olive oil dressing. With its crisp textures and zesty taste, it’s an ideal addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
2 large cucumbers, finely diced
3 large tomatoes, finely diced
1 small red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Combine Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix together the diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion.
Add Herbs: Stir in the chopped parsley and mint, if using.
Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Dress Salad: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Marinate: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Serving Tips:
Chilled for Freshness: Serve Shirazi Salad chilled for the best flavor and texture. The cool, crisp vegetables combined with the tangy dressing are especially refreshing on warm days.
Garnish: For an extra burst of flavor, garnish the salad with additional fresh herbs like parsley or mint just before serving. A sprinkle of sumac or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also elevate the dish.
Pairings: Shirazi Salad pairs beautifully with grilled meats, especially lamb or chicken. It also complements rice dishes, kebabs, or any Middle Eastern-inspired meal. For a light and refreshing lunch, enjoy it alongside pita bread or as a topping for hummus.
Serve Immediately: While the salad can sit for a short time to allow the flavors to meld, it’s best enjoyed fresh. The vegetables retain their crunch and the dressing remains vibrant when served soon after preparation.
Storage Tips:
Refrigeration: Store leftover Shirazi Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. However, the vegetables may soften slightly over time due to the dressing.
Avoid Freezing: Shirazi Salad is not suitable for freezing as the fresh vegetables will lose their texture and become mushy once thawed.
Refreshing Leftovers: If the salad has been stored for a day, you can refresh it by adding a little extra lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Separate Dressing: If you plan to make the salad ahead of time, consider storing the dressing separately and tossing it with the salad just before serving. This helps maintain the crispness of the vegetables.
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- Best Recipe For Chicken Salad
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FAQs:
Can I make Shirazi Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Shirazi Salad a few hours in advance. However, to maintain the crispness of the vegetables, it’s best to store the salad and dressing separately. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving.
What can I substitute for red onion in Shirazi Salad?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute red onion with green onions (scallions) or sweet onions. These alternatives will still provide a nice crunch without the sharpness of red onion.
Is Shirazi Salad suitable for a vegan or gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! Shirazi Salad is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The ingredients are all plant-based, and there are no grains or gluten-containing ingredients.
How can I add more flavor to Shirazi Salad?
For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of sumac, a tart Middle Eastern spice, or a pinch of ground black pepper. Adding a bit of crumbled feta cheese or olives can also enhance the salad, though this would make it less traditional.
Conclusion:
Shirazi Salad is a refreshing and vibrant Persian dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with fresh flavors. Perfect as a side or appetizer, it’s a healthy, vegan, and gluten-free option that complements any meal. Enjoy the simple yet delicious combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in a tangy lemon vinaigrette.
📖 Recipe:
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Shirazi Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Enjoy the refreshing taste of Shirazi Salad, a classic Persian dish made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions, dressed in a zesty lemon juice and olive oil vinaigrette. Perfect as a side dish or light appetizer, this salad is quick, easy, and packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, finely diced
3 large tomatoes, finely diced
1 small red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
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 (if using) and mix well.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
For a more robust flavor, let the salad marinate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
You can add other herbs like dill or cilantro for a different twist.
Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad Side Dish Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook Tossing
- Cuisine: Persian Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 60 kcal per serving
