Shirazi Salad a Persian Garden in Your Bowl
Recipe Introduction: Taste the Sunshine!
Ever crave a salad that's so fresh, it feels like a sunny day in a bowl? Let me introduce you to Shirazi Salad ! This vibrant salad is bursting with flavour.
You will want to make it all the time.
What is Shirazi Salad Anyway?
Shirazi Salad hails from Iran, particularly the Shiraz region. It's a simple Persian Salad of diced veggies and herbs. Think of it as the best Tomato Cucumber Salad , but Iranian style! So, it is a simple Easy Salad Recipe to learn.
It's an Easy Salad Recipe that's ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe makes about 4 servings. Perfect for a quick lunch, Middle Eastern Food side, or even a light dinner.
Why You'll Love This Persian Salad
This Healthy Salad is packed with nutrients and vitamins. Seriously, all those fresh veggies are a nutritional powerhouse. It's naturally a Vegan Salad , which is awesome.
Serve Shirazi Salad at your next BBQ or potluck. It’s guaranteed to be a hit. Its very appeal is very similar to other Fresh Herb Salad .
This is the Iranian Salad people dream about!
Let's Talk Ingredients
You will need some fresh ingredients for this Shirazi Salad . You will need tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and loads of fresh herbs.
For the dressing, a bit of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Simple, right? Let's dive into the ingredient list.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!
Right, so you're thinking about making a Shirazi Salad , eh? This Persian Salad is dead easy. Seriously, if I can do it, you definitely can! It's all about fresh ingredients.
Trust me, this Tomato Cucumber Salad will be your new favorite Healthy Salad .
Main Players: Salad Ingredients
Okay, for the Shirazi Salad itself, you'll need:
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced ( 400g / 14 oz). Honestly, proper ripe tomatoes make ALL the difference. A bit squishy to the touch is what you're after, innit?
- 2 Persian cucumbers (or 1/2 English cucumber), diced ( 250g / 9 oz).
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced ( 75g / 2.6 oz). Not too much, we don't want it overpowering.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (about 10g ). Fresh is key, yeah?
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, finely chopped (about 10g ).
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped (about 10g ).
Dressing the Part: Seasoning Notes
The dressing is simple. It’s what makes this Iranian Salad sing. It's got:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 45ml ). Bottled stuff just isn't the same, you know?
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (about 45ml ).
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (about 3g ). Don't be shy!
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (about 1g ).
Honestly, you can swap the lemon for a dash of white wine vinegar. But the lemon makes it proper Persian Food , yeah? It makes this Vegan Salad so fresh!
Kit Out Your Kitchen: Equipment Needed
Right, what do you actually need ?
- A proper sharp knife. Blunt knives are lethal!
- A chopping board. Obviously.
- A mixing bowl. For chucking it all together.
- Measuring spoons or cups. Or a kitchen scale if you're feeling fancy.
- Optional: Salad spinner. To get rid of excess water.
No need for fancy gadgets here. A bowl and a knife are your best mates. It's an Easy Salad Recipe , after all! This Middle Eastern Food gem is all about simplicity.
Get yourself sorted, and let's get dicing!
Cooking Method: Crafting the Perfect Shirazi Salad
Okay, so you want to learn how to make Shirazi Salad ? Honestly, it's dead simple. This Persian Salad is a winner.
It's healthy, fresh, and packed with flavour. It's one of my favorite Easy Salad Recipe ! You won't believe how quick it is.
This Middle Eastern Food staple will become your go-to.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Before we even THINK about chopping, let's get organised. This is essential mise en place , folks. Dice your 2 large ripe tomatoes (about 400g ), 2 Persian cucumbers (about 250g ), and 1/2 medium red onion (about 75g ).
Chop up about 1/4 cup each of fresh parsley , fresh mint , and fresh dill . Prepping like this saves a bunch of time, you know? Safety first: Keep those fingers out of the way when dicing!
step-by-step Process: It's as Easy as Pie...or Salad!
- Dice those tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion into small, even pieces .
- Finely chop the fresh parsley, fresh mint, and fresh dill.
- Chuck the diced veggies and herbs into a big bowl.
- Whisk together the 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper in another small bowl.
- Pour that dressing over the salad and give it a gentle toss.
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This lets the flavours meld.
Pro Tips: Elevating Your Shirazi Salad Game
Want to make your Shirazi Salad shine? Always use the freshest ingredients possible, it makes all the difference. Don't be afraid to play around with the herbs.
A little sumac or a pinch of chili flakes can really liven things up. Common mistake to avoid : over dressing the salad.
You want it light and refreshing, not swimming in lemon juice. make-ahead option : You can prep all the veggies and herbs in advance, but wait to dress it until just before serving.
This will prevent it from getting soggy. This fresh Vegan Salad will be a new favourite
So there you have it, folks! Get ready to eat some amazing Persian Food ! I hope you loved my Tomato Cucumber Salad recipe as much as I love sharing my Iranian Salad .
Recipe Notes
Alright, you've got your Shirazi Salad recipe. Ace! But before you go full Jamie Oliver on this Easy Salad Recipe , let's chat about some extra bits and bobs.
Honestly, these little tips can make a massive difference. They're like the secret handshake to a truly cracking salad.
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation Ideas.
Right, presentation matters. Trust me. This isn't just Tomato Cucumber Salad , it’s art! I like to mound the Shirazi Salad in a bowl and drizzle a bit of extra olive oil over the top.
Then, a sprinkle of extra fresh herbs. If you're feeling fancy, serve it on a platter lined with lettuce leaves.
It looks really posh. It makes a wonderful Healthy Salad when plated well.
Pairing wise, Middle Eastern Food always works. This Persian Salad shines alongside grilled chicken or lamb. It’s also amazing with hummus and warm pita bread.
Think of it as the perfect partner to anything from the barbie!
Storage Tips: How to Keep Your Salad Fresh.
Okay, listen up, you need to know this. Leftover Shirazi Salad is best enjoyed within 24 hours. The cucumbers can get a bit soggy otherwise.
Nobody wants a soggy salad. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. I wouldn’t recommend freezing it, though.
It just doesn't work. Reheating isn't an issue, as you eat it cold anyway.
Variations: Putting Your Own Spin on It!
Fancy a bit of a twist? For a Vegan Salad , you're already golden. This recipe is naturally vegan! Want a spicy kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Easy peasy. For a seasonal spin, try using different types of tomatoes in the summer. I love using heritage tomatoes when they're in season.
The Fresh Herb Salad also takes different dimensions and tastes according to the use of herbs.
Nutrition Basics: A Goodness Explosion.
So, why should you make this Iranian Salad ? One serving of this Persian Food beauty clocks in at around 120 calories.
It’s also packed with vitamins from all those fresh veggies. Plus, it’s low in fat and carbs. Basically, it's a win-win.
"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food". This quote perfectly encapsulates the health benefits you’ll get from this dish.
So there you have it! Go forth and make some Shirazi Salad . You’ve got this! It's like bringing a Persian Garden to your kitchen table.
Now, if you excuse me, I’m off to make another batch. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Shirazi Salad, and why should I bother making it?
Shirazi Salad is a refreshing and simple Persian salad made with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and herbs, dressed with lemon juice and olive oil. Think of it as sunshine in a bowl!
You should absolutely make it because it's quick, healthy, bursting with flavor, and a total crowd pleaser - perfect for a BBQ or a light lunch.
Can I make Shirazi Salad ahead of time?
You can, but with a little caveat. While the flavors meld nicely if it chills for about 30 minutes, be careful not to make it too far in advance. The tomatoes and cucumbers can release their juices, making the salad a bit soggy.
If you're prepping ahead, dice the veggies and keep them separate from the dressing until just before serving.
What's the best way to store leftover Shirazi Salad? Does it keep well?
Ideally, Shirazi Salad is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 1-2 days, but expect the texture to soften a bit as the vegetables release moisture. You might want to drain off any excess liquid before serving leftovers.
Still tastes brill, though!
I'm not a huge fan of onions. Can I leave them out of the Shirazi Salad?
While the red onion adds a lovely bite, you can certainly adjust the amount or even leave it out altogether if you're not a fan. You could try substituting with finely diced shallots for a milder flavor.
Just remember, a little bit of onion goes a long way in balancing the sweetness of the tomatoes and cucumbers, so consider using something to provide that savory element.
What are some variations I can make to this Shirazi Salad recipe to spice things up a bit?
Fancy a twist? For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño. Experiment with different herbs a little cilantro (coriander) can be nice, or try different types of cucumbers like Armenian cucumbers.
Some people even add a sprinkle of sumac for a tangy, lemony flavour that's really authentic. It's your salad, have a play!
Is Shirazi Salad healthy? What's the nutritional lowdown?
Absolutely! Shirazi Salad is packed with vitamins and nutrients from all the fresh vegetables, making it a healthy and refreshing choice. It's relatively low in calories and fat, and a good source of fiber, especially if you leave the skin on the cucumbers.
Just be mindful of the amount of olive oil you use in the dressing, as that's where most of the calories come from.
Shirazi Salad A Persian Garden In Your Bowl
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
