Simple Iranian Salad
Cook Time: Not Applicable
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2
Calories per Serving: 113.5 kcal
Description
This vibrant and refreshing Simple Iranian Salad is a perfect way to enjoy a burst of freshness in a matter of minutes. Hailing from the heart of Iran’s rich culinary tradition, this salad combines the crispness of cucumbers, the juiciness of tomatoes, and the sharpness of onions with a zingy lime dressing, balanced by the earthy note of parsley. Ideal for a quick side dish or a light, healthy snack, it captures the essence of simplicity and deliciousness that makes Iranian cuisine so beloved.
Ingredients
- 1 Cucumber: Choose a fresh, firm cucumber for the best texture. Persian cucumbers are especially good for this salad because they are crisp and less watery.
- 1 Tomato: A ripe, juicy tomato adds a wonderful sweetness. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well.
- 1 Onion: A small red onion is recommended for its mild flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 handful of Fresh Parsley: Flat-leaf parsley provides a bright, herbaceous note.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich, fruity flavor.
- Juice of 1 Lime: Freshly squeezed lime juice offers a tangy contrast that brings all the flavors together.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 113.5 kcal
- Fat: 7.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Sodium: 8.7 mg
- Carbohydrates: 13.1 g
- Fiber: 2.1 g
- Sugar: 6 g
- Protein: 2 g
Instructions
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Cucumber: Wash and peel the cucumber if desired. Slice it lengthwise and then cut it into thin half-moons.
- Tomato: Wash the tomato and cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can remove the seeds if you prefer a less juicy salad.
- Onion: Peel the onion and cut it into thin slices or small dice, depending on your texture preference.
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Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cucumber, tomato, and onion.
- Add the chopped parsley to the bowl.
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Dress the Salad:
- Drizzle the olive oil over the salad ingredients.
- Squeeze the fresh lime juice over the salad, making sure to catch any seeds.
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Toss and Chill:
- Gently toss the salad to ensure that the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve:
- Remove the salad from the refrigerator, give it a final toss, and serve immediately. Enjoy this refreshing and tangy salad on its own or as a side dish to complement your main course.
Additional Tips
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities to your taste. You can add more or less lime juice, olive oil, or parsley depending on your preference.
- Additions: For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper or a dash of sumac, which adds a tart, lemony flavor.
- Serving Suggestion: This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, kebabs, or as part of a mezze spread.
- Storage: While best enjoyed fresh, you can store this salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, the vegetables may lose some of their crispness over time.
Ingredient Notes
Cucumber: The choice of cucumber can affect the texture of your salad. Persian or English cucumbers have fewer seeds and thinner skin, making them ideal for salads. If using regular cucumbers, consider removing the seeds to prevent excess wateriness.
Tomatoes: The ripeness of the tomato is crucial for flavor. Choose tomatoes that are firm yet yielding to the touch, with a rich, deep color. Avoid overly ripe tomatoes as they may become mushy.
Onion: Red onion adds a beautiful color and a mild flavor to the salad. If you find the taste too strong, soak the sliced onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to the salad to mellow its flavor.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brings a vibrant, herbaceous note. Flat-leaf parsley is preferred over curly parsley for its more robust flavor and easier chopping.
Olive Oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the salad with its fruity, slightly peppery flavor. If you don’t have olive oil, you can substitute with another light, flavorful oil like avocado or grape seed oil.
Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for the bright, tangy flavor that defines this salad. If limes are unavailable, lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
Culinary Context
Iranian salads are celebrated for their simplicity and reliance on fresh, seasonal ingredients. This salad, often referred to as “Salad Shirazi,” is a staple in Persian cuisine, particularly during warm months when its cooling properties are most appreciated. Its light, crisp nature makes it a popular accompaniment to richer dishes, balancing out flavors and adding a refreshing element to the meal.
The minimalistic approach in this recipe highlights the quality of the ingredients, a common theme in Iranian cooking, where the freshness and natural flavors of the produce take center stage. The use of lime and olive oil, rather than heavy dressings, ensures that the salad remains light and healthy, aligning with contemporary trends towards fresh, wholesome eating.
Pairing Suggestions
This Simple Iranian Salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some serving ideas:
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside kebabs, grilled chicken, or lamb for a refreshing contrast.
- Fish: The tanginess of the salad complements grilled or baked fish, such as salmon or trout.
- Rice Dishes: Pair with traditional Iranian rice dishes like “Chelo” or “Polo” for a complete meal.
- Mezze Platter: Include it as part of a mezze platter with hummus, baba ghanoush, and flatbreads for a delightful spread.
Variations
For those looking to experiment, consider these variations:
- Mint: Add a handful of chopped fresh mint for an additional layer of flavor.
- Feta Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top for a touch of creaminess and saltiness.
- Radishes: Thinly sliced radishes can add a peppery crunch to the salad.
Reviews and Ratings
This salad has received an aggregated rating of 4.5 out of 5 from four reviews, with many praising its ease and the freshness it brings to a meal. Reviewers often mention how quickly it can be prepared and how versatile it is as a side dish.
Storage and Leftovers
While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one day. The vegetables may release some water and lose their crispness, so it’s recommended to consume the salad as soon as possible after making it. If you do have leftovers, give them a quick toss before serving to redistribute the dressing.
Conclusion
The Simple Iranian Salad is a beautiful testament to the philosophy that the best dishes often come from the simplest ingredients. Its crisp vegetables, bright lime dressing, and fresh herbs make it a perfect addition to any meal, whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a side dish to enhance your main course. Enjoy the taste of Iranian simplicity in every bite with this delightful, easy-to-make salad.
