Shirazi Winter Slaw

Featured in: Cozy Breads & Sides

This dish combines finely shredded red cabbage, carrots, fennel, diced cucumber, and pomegranate arils to create a vibrant winter slaw. Fresh parsley, mint, and dill bring aromatic herb notes, while a tangy dressing of olive oil, lemon, orange juice, red wine vinegar, and sumac enhances freshness. Tossed gently and rested briefly, it offers a crisp texture and balanced citrus flavors perfect for a light, flavorful side. Suitable for vegan and gluten-free preferences, this raw slaw delivers a colorful, nutritious addition to any meal.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:53:00 GMT
Vibrant Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, a colorful salad with crunchy vegetables and citrus dressing. Save
Vibrant Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, a colorful salad with crunchy vegetables and citrus dressing. | amberladle.com

A bright, crunchy slaw inspired by Persian Shirazi salad, featuring winter vegetables and a tangy citrus-herb dressing.

This slaw is a refreshing twist I discovered when wanting a vibrant winter salad that still packs a punch of flavor and color.

Ingredients

  • Red cabbage: 1 small, finely shredded
  • Carrots: 2 medium, julienned
  • Fennel bulb: 1 small, thinly sliced
  • Red onion: 1 small, finely diced
  • Cucumber: 1 medium, diced
  • Pomegranate arils: ½ cup
  • Fresh parsley: ½ cup, chopped
  • Fresh mint leaves: ¼ cup, chopped
  • Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Extra virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Freshly squeezed lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Freshly squeezed orange juice: 2 tablespoons
  • Red wine vinegar: 1 tablespoon
  • Sumac: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon or to taste
  • Ground black pepper: ¼ teaspoon

Instructions

Step 1:
In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded red cabbage, carrots, fennel, onion, cucumber, and pomegranate arils.
Step 2:
Add the chopped parsley, mint, and dill to the bowl, tossing gently to distribute the herbs evenly.
Step 3:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and black pepper until well emulsified.
Step 4:
Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss thoroughly to coat all vegetables and herbs.
Step 5:
Let the slaw sit for 10–15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Freshly tossed Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, showcasing shredded red cabbage and pomegranate jewels, ready to enjoy. Save
Freshly tossed Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, showcasing shredded red cabbage and pomegranate jewels, ready to enjoy. | amberladle.com

This recipe always brings my family together, sparking joy at every holiday table with its unique flavors and refreshing bite.

Tips for Serving

Serve as a side with grilled meats fish or falafel for a balanced meal.

Storage Suggestions

Keep the slaw chilled and consume within 2 days for best freshness and texture.

Dietary Information

Vegan and gluten-free suitable for most diets with no major allergens unless nuts are added.

Bright, zesty Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, offering a refreshing combination of winter vegetables and herbs. Save
Bright, zesty Shirazi-Inspired Winter Slaw, offering a refreshing combination of winter vegetables and herbs. | amberladle.com

Enjoy this vibrant slaw as a refreshing side dish that brightens up any meal with minimal effort.

Recipe FAQs

What vegetables are used in this Shirazi-inspired slaw?

Red cabbage, carrots, fennel, red onion, cucumber, and pomegranate arils form the crunchy vegetable base.

Which herbs flavor the dressing and salad?

Fresh parsley, mint, and dill add herbal freshness complemented by a citrus-herb dressing.

How is the dressing prepared for this slaw?

The dressing blends olive oil, lemon and orange juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and black pepper for a tangy, balanced finish.

Can this slaw be served immediately?

It’s best to let the slaw sit for 10–15 minutes after tossing to allow flavors to meld fully.

What are some suggested additions for extra crunch?

Toasted walnuts or slivered almonds can be added for added texture and flavor.

Is this dish suitable for specific diets?

Yes, it's vegan and gluten-free, accommodating a variety of dietary needs.

Shirazi Winter Slaw

Crunchy winter slaw with red cabbage, pomegranate, and a zesty citrus-herb dressing for bright flavors.

Prep time
20 min
0
Overall time
20 min
Created by Rachel Hayes


Skill required Easy

Cuisine Persian-Inspired

Makes 4 Serving size

Diet preferences Plant-based, No dairy, No gluten

What you need

Vegetables

01 1 small red cabbage, finely shredded
02 2 medium carrots, julienned
03 1 small fennel bulb, thinly sliced
04 1 small red onion, finely diced
05 1 medium cucumber, diced
06 ½ cup pomegranate arils

Herbs

01 ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped
02 ¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
03 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

Dressing

01 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
02 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
03 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
04 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
05 1 teaspoon sumac
06 ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
07 ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

How to make it

Step 01

Combine Vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, place the shredded red cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced fennel, diced red onion, diced cucumber, and pomegranate arils.

Step 02

Incorporate Herbs: Add the chopped parsley, mint, and dill to the vegetable mixture, tossing gently to ensure even distribution of the herbs.

Step 03

Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, orange juice, red wine vinegar, sumac, salt, and black pepper until emulsified.

Step 04

Dress the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the vegetable-herb mixture and toss thoroughly to coat all ingredients evenly.

Step 05

Rest and Serve: Allow the slaw to rest for 10 to 15 minutes to meld flavors before serving chilled or at room temperature.

Equipment needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Whisk
  • Small bowl or jar

Allergy info

Always review ingredients for allergens. Talk to your healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Contains no major allergens unless nuts are added; be aware of tree nut allergy risk with optional garnishes.

Nutrition details (each serving)

Nutritional details are for reference and aren't a substitute for healthcare guidance.
  • Calorie Count: 145
  • Fat content: 7 g
  • Carbohydrate: 18 g
  • Protein amount: 3 g