Refreshing Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad
This delightful Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad, also known as Salad Shiraz, is the epitome of freshness and flavor. Bursting with vibrant colors and textures, it's a perfect accompaniment to any meal, whether grilled meats, rice dishes, or even on its own as a light snack. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and zesty onions creates a refreshing bite that's elevated by the tangy lemon juice and fragrant parsley. As the salad sits, the flavors meld together beautifully, making each serving even tastier than the last. Ideal for summer gatherings or everyday dining, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cucumber
1 large (peeled and finely chopped)
Tomato
1 large (finely chopped)
Onion
1 large (finely chopped)
Parsley
1/2 cup (fresh, chopped)
Salt
to taste
Lemon Juice
1/4 cup (freshly squeezed (can be adjusted to taste))
Olive Oil
1-2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Begin by peeling and finely chopping the cucumber, tomato, and onion. Aim for a uniform chop to ensure a well-mixed salad.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cucumber, tomato, onion, and freshly chopped parsley.
3
Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the salad. Adjust the lemon juice to your taste preference for tartness.
4
Sprinkle salt over the mixture according to your preference and gently toss everything together until well combined.
5
Allow the salad to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time enhances the flavors and allows the liquid to develop.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Persian Cucumber and Tomato Salad?
It is a fresh and vibrant vegetable dish, also known as Salad Shiraz, originating from Middle Eastern cuisine.
What is another name for this salad?
This salad is commonly known as Salad Shiraz.
What are the main ingredients in this recipe?
The main ingredients are cucumber, tomato, onion, parsley, salt, lemon juice, and olive oil.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 4 servings.
Is this salad suitable for vegans?
Yes, this salad is vegan-friendly as it contains only plant-based ingredients.
How should I prepare the cucumbers?
The cucumbers should be peeled and finely chopped into uniform pieces.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes for this salad?
The recipe calls for finely chopping the tomatoes, but peeling is not specifically required.
What type of onion should I use?
The recipe specifies using one large onion, finely chopped.
How much lemon juice is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Can I adjust the amount of lemon juice?
Yes, you can adjust the lemon juice to your personal taste preference for tartness.
Why should the salad sit for 30 minutes before serving?
Allowing the salad to rest enhances the flavors and allows the natural juices to develop.
What kind of oil is used in the dressing?
The dressing uses 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy side dish filled with fresh vegetables and heart-healthy olive oil.
What does Salad Shiraz taste like?
It has a refreshing, zesty, and tangy flavor with a crunchy texture.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
While fresh parsley is recommended for its fragrance, you could use dried, though the flavor profile will change.
What dishes pair well with this salad?
It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a light standalone snack.
What is the key to a well-mixed Salad Shiraz?
Aiming for a uniform chop of all vegetables ensures the ingredients are well-distributed.
Does this salad contain any cholesterol?
No, this recipe contains only vegetables and oil, which are naturally cholesterol-free.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free.
How much salt should I add?
Salt should be added to taste according to your personal preference.
Is this salad good for summer gatherings?
Yes, its refreshing nature makes it an ideal choice for summer meals and parties.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, the flavors actually meld together and improve if it sits for a short period.
What region is this cuisine from?
This recipe is categorized under Southwest Asia (Middle East) cuisine.
How many total ingredients are required?
The recipe requires a total of 7 ingredients.
What provides the crunch in this salad?
The finely chopped cucumbers and onions provide the primary crunch.
Can I eat this as a snack?
Yes, it is described as a great option for a light and healthy snack.
How do I combine the dressing and vegetables?
Drizzle the oil and lemon juice over the chopped vegetables and toss gently until combined.
Does the flavor change over time?
Yes, each serving often tastes better as the flavors have more time to meld.
What herb is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of fresh, chopped parsley.
Is the onion preparation important?
Yes, finely chopping the onion ensures it blends well without overpowering the other ingredients.