Cucumber Salad Persian-style

Cucumber Salad Persian-style Recipe | Authentic Flavors From Persia

Region / culture: Persia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Cucumber Salad Persian-style is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the crispness of cucumbers with the creaminess of yogurt, along with the sweetness of raisins and the crunch of walnuts. This salad is perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish to accompany a main course.

History

Cucumber Salad Persian-style has its origins in Persian cuisine, where cucumbers are a popular ingredient in many dishes. This salad is often served as part of a mezze spread or as a side dish to grilled meats. The combination of yogurt, cucumbers, and nuts is a classic flavor profile in Persian cooking.

Ingredients

3 peeled cucumbers
2.5 cups plain yogurt
3 spring onions, finely chopped
0.75 cup raisins
0.5 cup walnuts
salt and pepper
1 tsp dried mint

How to prepare

Halve the cucumbers and remove the seeds.
Dice the cucumbers and sprinkle them with salt.
Allow the cucumbers to drain for 20 – 30 minutes.
Rinse the cucumbers, dry them, and place them in a bowl.
Mix in the yogurt and then add the remaining ingredients.
Cover the bowl and chill the mixture for 1 – 2 hours.

Variations

Add chopped fresh herbs such as mint or parsley for extra flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for the plain yogurt for a thicker and tangier dressing.
Use different nuts such as pistachios or almonds for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to remove the seeds from the cucumbers before dicing them, as the seeds can make the salad watery.

- Allowing the cucumbers to drain after salting them helps to remove excess moisture and prevents the salad from becoming too watery.

- Chilling the salad for at least 1-2 hours before serving allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cucumber Salad Persian-style as a side dish to grilled meats, kebabs, or rice dishes. It also pairs well with flatbreads or pita bread.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to dice the cucumbers evenly for a uniform texture in the salad.

- Toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad for a deeper flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have raisins, you can substitute with dried cranberries or chopped dates.

- For a dairy-free version, you can use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Cucumber Salad Persian-style up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Cucumber Salad Persian-style with a sprinkle of dried mint or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a decorative bowl or platter for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Cucumber Salad Persian-style with grilled chicken, lamb, or beef for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with rice pilaf or couscous.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of the Cucumber Salad Persian-style in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving. Do not freeze as the texture may become watery.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 220 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 23g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 8g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin C: 10% of daily value per serving

Calcium: 15% of daily value per serving

Iron: 8% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Dairy, Nuts

Summary

Cucumber Salad Persian-style is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and calcium, making it a healthy option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Cucumber Salad Persian-style is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its combination of cucumbers, yogurt, raisins, and walnuts, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a side dish to your favorite main course. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was many years ago, during a trip to Iran, where I had the opportunity to taste the most delicious Cucumber Salad Persian-style I had ever had. The combination of fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and herbs with a tangy lemon dressing was simply mouth-watering. I knew immediately that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

I had the privilege of meeting an elderly Persian woman, who was kind enough to share her recipe with me. She explained each step in detail, from how to slice the cucumbers just right to how to mix the dressing to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. As I listened intently and took notes, I could see the passion and love she had for cooking in her eyes.

After returning home, I couldn't wait to try out the recipe for myself. I gathered all the ingredients and started chopping, mixing, and tossing just as the woman had taught me. The aroma that filled my kitchen as I prepared the salad brought back memories of my time in Iran and the warm hospitality of the people I had met there.

As I took my first bite of the Cucumber Salad Persian-style, I was transported back to that small kitchen in Iran where I had learned the recipe. The flavors were just as I remembered – fresh, zesty, and incredibly delicious. I knew then that this salad would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made this Cucumber Salad for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight those who taste it. I have passed the recipe down to my children and grandchildren, who have come to love it just as much as I do.

What makes this recipe so special to me is not just the delicious flavors, but the memories and connections it holds. It reminds me of the kindness of strangers, the joy of discovering new cultures, and the beauty of sharing food with loved ones. It has become more than just a recipe – it is a symbol of my passion for cooking and my appreciation for the diverse culinary traditions of the world.

As I prepare the Cucumber Salad Persian-style once again, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences that have led me to this moment. The recipe may have come from a faraway land, but it has found a permanent place in my heart and my kitchen. And as I take that first bite, I know that the flavors will always bring back the memories of that special trip to Iran and the generous woman who shared her recipe with me.