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Authentic Shirazi Salad

Authentic Shirazi Salad

A vibrant, refreshing, and crisp Persian salad from Shiraz. This 10-minute side dish features finely diced fresh vegetables tossed in a zesty lime dressing.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Persian
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 Persian cucumbers chopped into small, even cubes
  • 3 Roma tomatoes chopped and seeded
  • 1/2 red onion finely chopped
  • 1/4 green pepper seeded and chopped, optional
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley finely chopped
  • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 tsp dried mint optional but highly recommended
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground

Method
 

  1. Wash cucumbers and pat dry. Trim ends and chop into small, uniform cubes. Place in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Slice tomatoes in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. Dice the firm flesh to match the cucumber size and add to the bowl.
  3. Finely chop the red onion and optional green pepper into pieces slightly smaller than the cucumbers. Add to the bowl.
  4. Finely chop the fresh cilantro and parsley (discarding thick stems) and add to the vegetables.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lime juice, salt, pepper, and dried mint until emulsified.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until well coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best flavor, keep the vegetables and dressing separate if preparing ahead of time. Soak diced red onion in ice water for 10 minutes to reduce sharpness if preferred.