Salad Shirazi: A Refreshing Persian Cucumber-Tomato Salad

Crisp, cool, and tangy, Salad Shirazi (سالاد شیرازی) is Iran’s answer to the perfect summer salad. Originating from the city of Shiraz, this simple yet flavorful dish brings together chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in a bright lemon and dried mint vinaigrette. It’s a staple on Persian tables, often served alongside rice dishes and kebabs—but honestly, it’s so refreshing, I eat it straight from the bowl. It pars perfectly with my Jeweled Tahchin Rice Dish pictured here:

Whether you’re new to Persian cuisine or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is easy, authentic, and perfect for bringing brightness to your table.

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🥒 Ingredients

• 4 Persian cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber), finely diced
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced
• 1 small red or white onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, lime juice, or verjus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried mint or parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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🥗 Instructions

1. Chop everything finely: The charm of Salad Shirazi lies in its uniform dice. Aim for small, even cubes so every bite is perfectly balanced.
2. Mix the vegetables: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
3. Add the dressing: Sprinkle in the dried mint or parsley, squeeze over the lemon juice, drizzle the olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Toss gently: Mix until everything is well coated. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled: Best served cold or at room temperature, alongside your favorite Persian dish like Kateh Rice with Tahdig, Braised Lamb Shank, or Khoresht Bademjan.

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🔥 Tips for the Best Salad Shirazi

• Use firm, ripe tomatoes so the salad isn’t watery.
• Dried mint is traditional and key to the signature flavor. Avoid using fresh mint—it changes the taste.
• Make it ahead! It tastes even better after chilling for an hour.
• Add a pinch of sumac or Advieh (Persian spice blend) for a twist.

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✨ Why You’ll Love It

Salad Shirazi is naturally vegan, gluten-free, and endlessly refreshing. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together—simple, bright, and full of Persian soul.

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Recipe Card:

Salad Shirazi: A Refreshing Persian Cucumber-Tomato Salad

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Simple yet flavorful dish brings together chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed in a bright lemon and dried herb vinaigrette. It’s a staple on Persian tables, often served alongside rice dishes and kebabs.

Ingredients

• 4 Persian cucumbers (or 1 English cucumber), finely diced
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced
• 1 small red or white onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, lime juice or verjus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried mint or parsley (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, and onion.

2. Add lemon juice, olive oil, dried mint or parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. Mix well and let sit for 10–15 minutes.

4. Serve chilled or at room temperature