Shirazi Salad – Fresh, Vibrant, and Perfectly Chopped
Few dishes prove that simplicity can be extraordinary quite like Shirazi Salad. With just a handful of fresh ingredients—crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, sharp red onion, bright lime juice, and fragrant herbs—this Persian cucumber tomato salad delivers bold flavor, refreshing texture, and stunning color in every bite.
Originating in the historic city of Shiraz in Iran, Shirazi Salad (Salad-e Shirazi) has become one of the most beloved staples of Persian cuisine. It’s served alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, stews, and flatbreads, adding brightness and balance to hearty meals. But don’t let its humble ingredient list fool you—this finely chopped salad is all about precision, freshness, and harmony.
If you’re searching for a refreshing Middle Eastern side dish that’s healthy, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile, this authentic Iranian salad recipe deserves a permanent place in your kitchen.
What Makes Shirazi Salad Special?
At first glance, it may look like a simple cucumber and tomato salad. But what sets Shirazi Salad apart is its texture and balance.
Unlike rustic chopped salads with large chunks, Shirazi Salad is finely diced. Each ingredient is cut into small, uniform pieces so that every spoonful contains a perfect combination of cucumber, tomato, and onion. This careful chopping technique transforms the salad into something light yet satisfying.
The dressing is minimal—fresh lime juice, olive oil (optional in traditional versions), salt, and pepper. No heavy sauces. No overpowering spices. Just clean, bright flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 Persian cucumbers (or 2 small English cucumbers), finely diced
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 1/2 small red onion, very finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Juice of 2 fresh limes
- 1–2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (optional but recommended)
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
Wash and dry all produce thoroughly. Finely dice the cucumbers into small, even cubes. Remove excess seeds from tomatoes if very watery, then finely dice to match the cucumber size. - Chop the Onion:
Finely mince the red onion. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the chopped onion in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain well. - Chop the Parsley:
Finely chop fresh parsley, removing thick stems. - Combine Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, combine cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. - Dress the Salad:
Add fresh lime juice, olive oil (if using), salt, and black pepper. - Toss Gently:
Mix carefully so ingredients remain intact and evenly coated. - Chill Before Serving:
Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. - Serve Fresh:
Stir once more before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Shirazi Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Finely dice cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Finely chop red onion and parsley.
- Combine vegetables in a bowl.
- Add lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently and chill before serving.
Notes
The Importance of the Fine Chop
The defining characteristic of Shirazi Salad is its uniform, small dice. This is not a rough, chunky salad. The smaller the pieces, the more cohesive and flavorful each bite becomes.
Tips for perfect texture:
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
- Keep pieces similar in size.
- Avoid over-mixing to prevent excess liquid release.
The fine chop also allows the lime juice to coat every piece evenly, enhancing the bright citrus flavor.
Health Benefits of Shirazi Salad
This Persian cucumber tomato salad is naturally:
- Gluten-free
- Vegan
- Low-calorie
- Rich in antioxidants
- Hydrating due to high water content
Cucumbers provide hydration and vitamin K. Tomatoes deliver vitamin C and lycopene. Fresh herbs add anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s a light yet nutrient-dense addition to any meal.
Cultural Significance
Shirazi Salad is deeply woven into Persian culinary tradition. In Iran, meals are built around balance—rich rice dishes or slow-cooked stews are paired with fresh herbs and salads to create harmony on the table.
You’ll often find Shirazi Salad served alongside kebabs, rice pilafs, and stews. It provides contrast—cool against warm, crisp against tender, tangy against savory.
Its simplicity reflects the Persian philosophy of letting ingredients shine rather than masking them.
Variations to Try
While the traditional Iranian salad recipe is beautifully simple, you can adapt it:
Add Mint
Fresh mint enhances the refreshing quality.
Use Lemon Instead of Lime
Some households prefer lemon juice for a softer acidity.
Add Pomegranate Seeds
For a subtle sweetness and visual pop.
Include Sumac
A pinch of sumac adds a tangy, slightly smoky flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Middle Eastern side dish pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken or lamb
- Rice dishes and pilafs
- Flatbreads and wraps
- Falafel or vegetarian plates
- As a topping for grain bowls
It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light lunch or snack.
Storage Tips
Shirazi Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Because tomatoes release liquid, you may want to drain excess juice before serving leftovers. A quick squeeze of fresh lime can revive the flavors.
Why This Salad Is Perfect Year-Round
While incredibly refreshing in summer, Shirazi Salad works in every season. It brightens winter comfort dishes and complements spring and autumn meals with equal grace.
It’s proof that a few fresh ingredients—handled with care—can create something truly memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
What type of cucumber works best?
Persian cucumbers are ideal because they have thin skin and minimal seeds.
Is olive oil traditional?
Traditional versions often use only lime juice and salt, but olive oil adds richness.
Final Thoughts
Shirazi Salad is more than just a simple cucumber tomato mixture—it’s a celebration of freshness, balance, and thoughtful preparation. With its finely chopped texture, vibrant colors, and bright citrus dressing, it delivers big flavor from minimal ingredients.
If you’re looking for a healthy, easy, and authentic Middle Eastern side dish, this Shirazi Salad will quickly become a favorite at your table.
