Name: Shirazi Salad: A Refreshing Summer Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound roma tomatoes (small diced); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¾ pound Persian cucumbers (or English cucumbers, small diced); ¼ cup minced red onion; 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh dill; 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh mint; 2 limes (juiced (about ¼ cup lime juice)); 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil; Kosher salt & pepper (to taste)

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Brighten your table with this vibrant Shirazi Salad, a crisp and flavorful summer salad that’s perfect for warm-weather meals. Featuring diced cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, red onions, and fresh herbs, this Persian-inspired Shirazi Salad is tossed in a tangy lime and olive oil dressing. Easy to make and naturally dairy- and gluten-free, this summer salad is a versatile side dish for BBQs, picnics, or weeknight dinners. Follow our simple recipe to create this refreshing, healthy dish!

Why You’ll Love This Shirazi Salad

The Shirazi Salad is a delightful summer salad that celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients with bold, zesty flavors. Here’s why this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

Bursting with Freshness: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs make every bite of this Shirazi Salad a flavor explosion.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this summer salad is perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy and Inclusive: Naturally dairy- and gluten-free, this Shirazi Salad suits a variety of dietary needs.
Versatile Side Dish: Pairs beautifully with grilled meats, curries, or as part of a mezze spread, making it a go-to summer salad.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep in advance for a stress-free summer salad that’s even better after marinating.

For more refreshing summer salads, check out our guide: Light and Healthy Salads for Warm Weather.

What Makes Shirazi Salad So Special?

Originating from Shiraz, Iran, the Shirazi Salad (or Salad-e Shirazi) is a cornerstone of Persian cuisine, known for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. This summer salad combines diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions with a generous mix of fresh herbs like mint, parsley, and dill, all tossed in a tangy lime and olive oil dressing. Similar to a Greek salad but with a unique herbaceous twist, the Shirazi Salad is light, refreshing, and perfect for showcasing summer’s bounty. Its versatility makes it an ideal companion for hearty dishes or a standalone dish at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into a classic Shirazi Salad:

Cucumbers – Persian cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture and low seed content. If using English cucumbers, slice in half and scoop out the seeds. Regular cucumbers? Peel and deseed before dicing.
Tomatoes – Roma tomatoes work best for their firm flesh and minimal seeds, but any ripe tomato will do.
Red Onion – For a mild bite. If too strong, soak the diced onion in cold water for 5 minutes.
Fresh Lime Juice – Adds tanginess. Traditionally, sour grape juice (Ab Ghooreh) is used in Iran. Lime or lemon juice is a great substitute.
Olive Oil – Just a touch to bring everything together.
Fresh Herbs – Mint, dill, and parsley are a must for that authentic Persian flavor. Feel free to experiment with cilantro or basil too.
Salt & Pepper – Season to taste.

How to Make Shirazi Salad

Follow these simple steps to create a vibrant Shirazi Salad:

Prep the veggies: Dice cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion into small ¼-inch cubes for that classic texture.
Salt the tomatoes: Toss the chopped tomatoes with a pinch of salt and let them sit for a few minutes to release excess liquid.
Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the cucumbers, red onion, herbs, lime juice, and olive oil.
Add tomatoes: Drain the tomatoes and stir them into the salad.
Season and chill: Add salt and pepper to taste. For best results, refrigerate for 15–30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 15-30 minutes (optional)
Total Time: 15-45 minutes
Calories: ~100 per serving
Servings: 4-6

Tips for the Perfect Shirazi Salad

Uniform Dicing: Cut vegetables into small, even cubes for a balanced bite in your Shirazi Salad.
Drain Tomatoes: Salting and draining tomatoes prevents a watery summer salad.
Fresh Herbs: Use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; chop finely to distribute evenly in this salad.
Chill for Flavor: Let the salad marinate in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to enhance the taste of this summer salad.
Taste and Adjust: Balance the lime juice, salt, and pepper to suit your preferences.

Creative Variations for Shirazi Salad

Customize this Shirazi Salad with these delicious twists:

Cheese Addition: Toss in cubed feta or mozzarella balls for a creamy twist in this summer salad.
Herb Swap: Replace dill, mint, or parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Add diced red or green bell peppers or radishes for extra crunch in your salad.
Greens Base: Mix in spinach, arugula, or romaine for a heartier summer salad.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle ½ tsp sumac or red pepper flakes for a zesty, spicy Shirazi Salad.
Dressing Twist: Use lemon juice, white wine vinegar, or a homemade Italian dressing instead of lime juice.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Shirazi Salad is a versatile summer salad that complements a wide range of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

Serve chilled alongside grilled dishes like lamb kebabs, chicken kabobs, or grilled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Pair with hearty mains like butter chicken, butter chickpeas, or potato vindaloo for a balanced meal.
Offer at BBQs, picnics, or potlucks with flatbread or pita for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.
Enjoy with high-acidic white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling, or a crisp Rosé, to complement the tangy flavors of this Shirazi Salad.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate: Store Shirazi Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Note that vegetables may soften over time.
Make Ahead: Chop veggies and prepare the dressing a day in advance, then toss together 15-30 minutes before serving for a fresh summer salad.
Avoid Freezing: The fresh vegetables and herbs don’t freeze well, so enjoy this Shirazi Salad fresh or refrigerated.

FAQs About Shirazi Salad

Can I make this summer salad ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the Shirazi Salad 15-30 minutes before serving for optimal flavor, or prep ingredients a day in advance and toss before serving.

What cucumbers are best for this summer salad?
Persian cucumbers are ideal for their crisp texture and few seeds, but English cucumbers (seeded) or regular cucumbers (peeled and seeded) work well in this salad.

Can I add cheese to this summer salad?
Yes, cubed feta or mozzarella adds a creamy element to the Shirazi Salad, enhancing its richness.

How do I make this summer salad less oniony?
Soak diced red onion in ice water for 5 minutes or use milder shallots to reduce the sharpness in your salad.

What’s a substitute for lime juice in this summer salad?
Lemon juice, white wine vinegar, or traditional Ab Ghooreh (sour grape juice) can replace lime juice in this salad.

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Conclusion

This Shirazi Salad is the ultimate summer salad, offering a burst of fresh, tangy flavors in every bite. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or as a light side dish, this Shirazi Salad is easy to make and sure to impress. Try it today and bring a taste of Persian cuisine to your summer table!