Description
Shirazi Salad is a fresh and vibrant Iranian salad featuring crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic herbs dressed in a tangy lime and olive oil dressing. Perfect as a light side or a refreshing appetizer, this quick and easy salad captures the essence of Persian flavors in just 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 3 Persian cucumbers, chopped
- 3 Roma tomatoes, chopped and seeded
- ½ red onion, chopped
- ¼ green pepper, seeded and chopped (optional)
Herbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried mint
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- ½ teaspoon Kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the vegetables and herbs: In a large bowl, add the chopped Persian cucumbers, Roma tomatoes, red onion, green pepper, cilantro, and parsley. Mix gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, fresh lime juice, kosher salt, and black pepper until the mixture is emulsified and well blended.
- Toss the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the combined vegetables and herbs. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the dressing without bruising the ingredients. Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste.
Notes
- For best texture, use Persian cucumbers or other small, thin-skinned cucumbers to avoid peeling.
- Seeding the tomatoes and green pepper helps reduce excess moisture and prevents the salad from becoming watery.
- The dried mint adds a subtle aroma typical to Persian salads, but you can substitute with fresh mint if preferred.
- This salad is best served fresh and should be eaten soon after preparation to maintain crispness.
- Optional: Add a pinch of sumac for a tangy finish reflective of Middle Eastern flavors.
