Shirazi Salad
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever get that feeling you need something fresh? Something that sings of summer? Well, let me introduce you to persian salad .
This little gem will become your new best mate! It's zesty, it's vibrant, and it's incredibly easy to whip up.
What's the Deal with Shirazi Salad?
Shirazi Salad, also known as Cucumber Tomato Salad , comes straight from the heart of Persian Cuisine . It's basically the bee's knees in Iran! We are talking about a super simple salad and totally refreshing.
This Middle Eastern Salad is dead easy to make, takes only 20 minutes, and feeds about 4 people. Honestly, that's even quicker than waiting for a takeaway!
Why This Vegan Salad Recipe Rocks
Firstly, it is a healthy option! It is packed with vitamins and goodness from the fresh herb salad inside. The lemon vinaigrette dressing is light and zingy.
This Iranian Salad is fab for BBQs, light lunches, or just when you fancy something a bit posh .
Seriously, what makes this recipe special is its simplicity. It's all about the quality of the ingredients and that perfect balance of flavours.
And who doesn't love Easy Salad Recipes , especially in the Summer Salad season? Let's get started!
Time to gather some ingredients
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Persian Salad
Alright, lets talk ingredients. This Persian salad , or Shirazi Salad , is super easy. Honestly, the ingredients are fresh and simple.
You know, the kind of stuff your Nan used to have in her garden. Cucumber Tomato Salad is the base, but the magic is in the details.
Main Ingredients: Freshness is Key!
Here's what you'll need for this vibrant Middle Eastern Salad :
- 2 medium cucumbers, finely diced ( 2 cups / 500g ). English cucumbers are great.
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced ( 2 cups / 500g ). Go for the ones that smell amazing!
- ½ medium red onion, finely diced ( ½ cup / 125g ). Not too much or it'll overpower.
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 15g ). The fresher, the better.
- ¼ cup fresh mint, finely chopped (about 7g ). Adds that lovely coolness.
The quality of the tomatoes and cucumbers really matters for this Iranian Salad . Look for firm, ripe tomatoes that smell good.
Avoid anything that feels mushy. As for the cucumbers, firm and crisp is what you want. Seriously, it makes all the difference.
Seasoning Notes: Zing it Up!
This Vegan Salad Recipe gets its zing from a simple but effective dressing.
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 45ml ). Use fresh, bottled stuff just doesn't cut it.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (about 45ml ). Good olive oil is always worth it.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (about 1g ). That classic Persian Cuisine flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy!
For a Fresh Herb Salad , the parsley and mint are non-negotiable. But feel free to add a pinch of dried mint if you're short on fresh.
A little red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick, if that's your thing. The most important part of this dressing is its Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing .
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple, Silly!
You really don't need much equipment for this Easy Salad Recipes .
- Cutting board and sharp knife. Obviously.
- Mixing bowl. To chuck everything in.
- Measuring spoons and cups. Accurate is good.
- Small whisk (optional). For the dressing, but a fork works too.
Don't go buying fancy equipment for this. Honestly, if you can dice a cucumber and mix a dressing, you're golden.
This Summer Salad is all about ease and fresh flavors. Enjoy, you cheeky monkeys!
Shirazi Salad: A Persian Delight
Honestly, who doesn't love a good salad ? Especially in summer. I tell you what, a proper Persian salad , sometimes called Shirazi Salad , is just the ticket when it's sweltering outside.
This one's a real winner. It's simple, fresh, and bursting with flavour. It’s the kind of thing you can whip up in minutes.
It's a vibrant Middle Eastern Salad that's light, refreshing and perfect as a side or quick lunch. Oh my gosh!.
It’s just... delicious!
Prep Steps: Let’s Get Organised!
Right, first things first. Proper mise en place is essential. We are using a mix of fresh herbs, so let's get everything prepped before you even think about touching that dressing.
Dice your cucumbers , tomatoes , and red onion. Chop your fresh parsley and mint. Easy peasy. As for safety, just watch your fingers with that knife, yeah? No need for a trip to A&E!
Time Saving Tip: Chop your veggies while the kettle boils for a cuppa. Efficiency is key, my friend!
step-by-step: Salad Magic
- Dice 2 medium cucumbers , 2 medium ripe tomatoes , and 0.5 medium red onion . Aim for a small, uniform dice.
- Finely chop 0.5 cup fresh parsley and 0.25 cup fresh mint .
- Combine the diced veggies and herbs in a bowl.
- Whisk together 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice , 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil , 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano , salt, and pepper for the Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing .
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss.
- Chill for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavours to meld.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Persian Salad
Wanna take your Persian Salad to the next level? Here's the goss. Using a good quality olive oil makes all the difference.
Seriously, splurge a little. A common mistake is over dressing. Add it just before serving. You can prep the veggies ahead, but keep them separate until you're ready to serve.
This Vegan Salad Recipe is a great make-ahead option! Honestly, prepping the veggies in the morning and then tossing them with the dressing just before you eat gives the flavours time to develop.
Recipe Notes for the Perfect Persian Salad
Right, let's talk shop about this absolutely banging Persian Salad , also known as Shirazi Salad . It's not just throwing a load of veggies in a bowl, you know? There are a few tricks to make it truly spectacular.
Trust me, I've made my fair share of dodgy salads in my time.
Serving Suggestions: Plating & More
How you serve your Iranian Salad matters. It's a feast for the eyes, too!
A simple bowl is fine, honestly. But piling it high on a pretty platter? Now that's posh! Garnish with extra herbs a sprig of mint or parsley makes all the difference.
This Vegan Salad Recipe pairs great with grilled halloumi. Or alongside some lovely hummus and warm pita bread. Fancy a drink? A chilled glass of white wine or a fizzy lemonade is the perfect match.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Nobody wants a soggy salad. So, listen up!
This Cucumber Tomato Salad is best served fresh. But if you have leftovers, pop them in an airtight container. Stick it in the fridge.
It will be good for up to 2 days , tops. Freezing? Nah, don't even think about it. Reheating isn't a thing either, since it's served cold!
Variations: Mix It Up!
This Easy Salad Recipes is your canvas. Get creative!
Want to make it gluten-free? Easy peasy - this Persian Cuisine is naturally gluten-free. Just double check your olive oil is pure.
Feeling spicy? Add a pinch of chilli flakes to the Lemon Vinaigrette Dressing for a kick. For a Summer Salad , try swapping out regular tomatoes for juicy heritage ones.
If you like Fresh Herb Salad , add basil or oregano to bring a delicious aroma!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Bowl
Did you know that this Middle Eastern Salad is actually good for you?
This salad is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Roughly, each serving has 150 calories. It's low in fat and high in fibre.
The cucumber keeps you hydrated. The tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C. Plus, the fresh herbs are full of goodness.
So there you have it! All my tips and tricks for making the perfect Shirazi Salad. Honestly, it's easier than making toast.
Now get in the kitchen and give it a go. You won't regret it!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Persian salad, and why should I bother making it?
Persian Salad, often called Shirazi Salad, is a simple and refreshing salad from Iran. It's basically a delicious mix of finely diced cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and herbs, dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.
You should make it because it's easy, healthy, adds a burst of fresh flavor to any meal, and it's far tastier than a limp lettuce leaf. Think of it as a taste of sunshine!
Can I make Persian salad ahead of time? Will it get soggy like my Aunt Mildred's trifle?
While you can prep the vegetables and herbs in advance, it's best to dress the salad just before serving to prevent it from getting soggy. Nobody likes a soggy salad! If you need to make it a bit ahead, toss the diced veggies with a tiny pinch of salt to draw out some moisture, then drain them before adding the dressing right before serving.
This ensures a crispier salad.
What are some variations I can try to spice up my Persian salad recipe?
Feeling adventurous, are we? You can definitely jazz up your Shirazi salad. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Experiment with different herbs like dill, cilantro, or even a touch of tarragon.
Some people also add a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese (or vegan feta!) for a salty, tangy twist. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Is Persian salad healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Absolutely! Persian salad is packed with nutrients. It's low in calories and fat, but high in vitamins and antioxidants from all those fresh vegetables and herbs. Plus, the olive oil in the dressing provides healthy fats. It's a win-win, and much better for you than that bag of crisps you were eyeing!
What's the best way to store leftover Persian salad? I always seem to make too much!
Leftovers happen, don't they? The best way to store leftover Shirazi salad is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, be aware that it will release moisture and might not be as crisp the next day. Try to eat it within 1-2 days for the best quality.
You can always use the leftovers in a wrap or mixed into some couscous - waste not, want not!
Help! I don't have all the ingredients. What substitutions can I make in my Persian salad?
Don't fret! If you're missing red onion, use yellow or white, but soak it in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow the flavour. If you don't have fresh mint, you can use a pinch of dried mint, but fresh is always best. If you don't have fresh parsley, coriander is an excellent substitute.
The most important thing is to keep the salad fresh and simple!
Shirazi Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 150 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 2g |