Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shirazi Salad is a refreshing, vibrant, and flavorful dish that combines crunchy vegetables with a zesty dressing. Traditionally from Iran, this salad is light, nutritious, and perfect for a summer meal or as a side dish to complement grilled meats. The crisp Persian cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and tangy red onion are beautifully balanced with a fresh mint dressing, making each bite feel like a burst of flavor. Plus, the homemade tortilla chips add a satisfying crunch that elevates this salad to something truly special.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 3 small flour tortillas, cut into triangles
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil, in a spray bottle
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 4 Persian cucumbers, finely diced
• ½ red onion, finely diced
• 3 vine tomatoes, finely diced

For the Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced (or use grape juice in Shiraz, which is traditional)
• ½ teaspoon salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Tortilla Chips

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the flour tortillas into triangle shapes.
3. Lay the tortilla triangles in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Lightly spray with avocado oil and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon salt.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through.
6. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Salad

1. Dice the Persian cucumbers, red onion, and vine tomatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumbers, red onion, and tomatoes.

3. Make the Dressing

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice (or grape juice for a traditional Shirazi flavor), ½ teaspoon salt, and chopped fresh mint until well combined.

4. Combine the Salad and Dressing

1. Pour the dressing over the prepared vegetables and toss gently to combine, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

5. Serve

1. Serve the Shirazi Salad with the freshly baked tortilla chips on the side or sprinkled over the top for added crunch.
2. Garnish with extra mint if desired and enjoy immediately!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus 10 minutes for baking the chips)
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, salty element that pairs beautifully with the freshness of the salad.
• Add olives: For a Mediterranean twist, toss in some Kalamata or green olives for extra brininess.
• Add pomegranate seeds: Pomegranate seeds can be sprinkled on top for a burst of sweetness and a touch of color.
• Make it spicier: If you like a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the salad or dressing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Shirazi Salad is best served fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The tortilla chips will lose their crunch after storing, so it’s best to keep them separate.
• Reheating: If you have leftovers of the tortilla chips, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of tortillas?

Yes, you can use corn tortillas or whole wheat tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a different flavor and texture.

2. Can I make this salad in advance?

While the salad can be prepped in advance, it’s best to dress it right before serving to maintain the freshness of the vegetables. The tortilla chips are best served immediately after baking.

3. Is Shirazi Salad gluten-free?

Yes, Shirazi Salad is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that the tortillas you use are gluten-free if you need the dish to be entirely gluten-free.

4. Can I substitute the fresh mint with dried mint?

Yes, you can use dried mint in place of fresh mint. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried mint to substitute for the 1 tablespoon of fresh mint.

5. What other vegetables can I add to Shirazi Salad?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers, radishes, or even a handful of chopped lettuce or arugula for extra crunch and flavor.

6. Can I use balsamic vinegar instead of lemon juice?

Balsamic vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, though it will change the flavor slightly. If you prefer a tangy profile, stick with lemon juice for the best taste.

7. How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just keep the tortilla chips free from any dairy-based butter or topping to keep everything plant-based.

8. Can I use store-bought tortilla chips?

Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tortilla chips instead of baking your own. However, homemade tortilla chips give a fresher, crispier texture.

9. Is Shirazi Salad spicy?

Shirazi Salad is not typically spicy, but you can adjust the heat by adding chili flakes or a diced chili pepper to the salad or dressing if you enjoy spice.

10. Can I make this a complete meal?

Yes! You can turn Shirazi Salad into a complete meal by adding protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to the salad.

Conclusion

Shirazi Salad is a light, refreshing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warm weather or as a side to your favorite grilled dishes. With a tangy lemon-mint dressing, fresh vegetables, and crispy tortilla chips, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. It’s quick to make, customizable, and bursting with fresh flavors—ideal for a snack, side dish, or light meal!

Print