masht o khiyaar persian cucumber salad with sultanas and walnuts
Author of this recipe: Daniella Conell
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"Try this refreshing Persian cucumber salad (Masht o Khiyaar) with sultanas, walnuts, and herbs. A perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors!"
Here’s a list of ingredients for **Persian Cucumber Salad (Masht o Khiyaar)** with **sultanas** and **walnuts**, formatted with SEO-friendly keywords and bullet points:
- **Plain yogurt** (Greek yogurt or labneh for a thicker consistency) - 1 cup
- **Sultanas (golden raisins)** - 1/4 cup, soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
- **Walnuts** - 1/4 cup, roughly chopped
- **Fresh mint leaves** - 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- **Fresh dill** - 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- **Garlic** - 1-2 cloves, minced (optional, for added flavor)
- **Dried rose petals** - 1 teaspoon, crushed (optional, for a floral touch)
- **Salt** - 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- **Black pepper** - 1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground
- **Extra virgin olive oil** - 1-2 tablespoons, for drizzling
This **Persian cucumber salad** is a refreshing and healthy dish, perfect for summer meals or as a side dish. It combines the crunch of **cucumbers**, the sweetness of **sultanas**, and the nuttiness of **walnuts**, all tied together with creamy **yogurt** and aromatic herbs. Enjoy this **authentic Persian recipe** as part of a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-inspired meal!
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Steps
# How to Make Masht o Khiyaar: Persian Cucumber Salad with Sultanas and Walnuts
Masht o Khiyaar is a refreshing Persian cucumber salad that combines crisp cucumbers, sweet sultanas, and crunchy walnuts for a delightful mix of flavors and textures. This easy-to-make salad is perfect as a side dish or a light snack. Follow these detailed steps to create this traditional Persian recipe at home.
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## **Ingredients for Masht o Khiyaar**
- 4 Persian cucumbers (or 2 English cucumbers), thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sultanas (golden raisins), soaked in warm water for 10 minutes
- 1/2 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek or Persian-style)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **1. Prepare the Cucumbers**
- Wash and dry the Persian cucumbers thoroughly.
- Thinly slice the cucumbers into rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl.
### **2. Soak the Sultanas**
- In a small bowl, soak the sultanas in warm water for 10 minutes to soften them.
- Drain the sultanas and pat them dry with a paper towel.
### **3. Toast the Walnuts**
- Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the chopped walnuts.
- Toast the walnuts for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Remove from heat and let them cool.
### **4. Prepare the Dressing**
- In a small bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, white wine vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
### **5. Assemble the Salad**
- Add the soaked sultanas, toasted walnuts, and sliced red onion (if using) to the bowl with the cucumbers.
- Pour the yogurt dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat all the ingredients evenly.
### **6. Add Fresh Herbs**
- Sprinkle the finely chopped mint and dill over the salad.
- Gently mix the herbs into the salad for a burst of fresh flavor.
### **7. Chill and Serve**
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Before serving, give the salad a final toss and adjust seasoning if needed.
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## **Tips for the Perfect Masht o Khiyaar**
- Use Persian cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor. If unavailable, English cucumbers are a great substitute.
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat yogurt.
- Add a pinch of sumac or dried mint for an extra layer of Persian flavor.
- Serve chilled as a side dish with grilled meats, rice dishes, or flatbreads.
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## **Why You’ll Love This Salad**
Masht o Khiyaar is a healthy, refreshing, and easy-to-make salad that’s packed with nutrients. The combination of cucumbers, sultanas, and walnuts provides a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and crunchy flavors. This Persian cucumber salad is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate fresh herbs and wholesome ingredients into your diet.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Persian cuisine in your own kitchen!
**Keywords**: Persian cucumber salad, Masht o Khiyaar, cucumber salad with sultanas, Persian recipes, healthy salad, yogurt cucumber salad, walnut cucumber salad, easy Persian dishes.