Dooymaaj Salad
Dooymaaj Salad is a delightful Iranian snack that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable treat. With its crispy lavash bread, fresh herbs, and creamy feta, it brings a burst of flavors to any meal or afternoon snack.
The salad’s unique charm lies in its combination of textures. The toasted lavash bread adds a satisfying crunch, while the dressing, made with buttermilk and red wine vinegar, binds everything together in perfect harmony.
A perfect balance of fresh herbs, tangy cheese, and crunchy walnuts makes this salad a true crowd-pleaser. Whether served as a light meal or an accompaniment, Dooymaaj brings a taste of Iranian tradition to your table.
Dooymaaj Salad Ingredients
The foundation of Dooymaaj Salad begins with crisp lavash bread, which provides a satisfying crunch and serves as the perfect canvas for the vibrant ingredients. Fresh parsley, mint, and basil bring a refreshing herbal brightness that balances the richness of the other components.
Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy layer, while coarsely chopped walnuts contribute a hearty crunch and a touch of earthiness. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making each bite uniquely satisfying.
Dooymaaj Salad: A Perfectly Balanced Iranian Delight
Dooymaaj Salad brings together the best of fresh herbs, creamy feta, crunchy walnuts, and crisp lavash bread. This nostalgic Iranian childhood snack is a refreshing and flavorful treat that is simple yet bursting with texture and taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its blend of ingredients, with every bite offering a delightful contrast of flavors. Whether as an afternoon snack or a light meal, Dooymaaj Salad is sure to impress with its layers of vibrant herbs and savory dressing.
Recipe Tips
- Toast the Lavash Bread Just Right: When toasting the lavash bread, aim for it to become crisp without taking on any color. Over-browning or burning can result in a bitter flavor that detracts from the overall dish. Be sure to keep a close eye on it, as it only takes about three minutes in the oven to reach the perfect crispness.
- Adjust the Dressing to Your Taste: The dressing is a key component of this salad, so don’t hesitate to adjust the quantities to suit your preference. If you like it tangier, add more red wine vinegar. If you’re a fan of creaminess, a bit more buttermilk can provide a richer texture. Always taste before serving to ensure the flavors are balanced.
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Herbs: The fresh herbs in this salad—parsley, mint, and basil—are what give Dooymaaj its refreshing flavor. Be sure to use fresh herbs for the best taste and aroma. If possible, try to source Persian or lemon basil, as they bring a unique fragrance that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
What to Serve with Dooymaaj Salad
- Grilled Lamb Skewers: The rich, smoky flavor of grilled lamb pairs wonderfully with the freshness of Dooymaaj Salad. The tender, juicy meat complements the crisp lavash bread and creamy feta, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
- Crispy Falafel: For a vegetarian option, serve Dooymaaj Salad alongside crispy falafel. The crunchy, spiced chickpea balls provide an excellent contrast to the lightness of the salad, and the herbs in the salad enhance the earthy flavor of the falafel.
- Yogurt and Cucumber Dip (Mast-o-Khiar): A cool, refreshing yogurt-based dip like Mast-o-Khiar can balance the flavors of Dooymaaj Salad. The creamy yogurt, cucumber, and herbs complement the fresh elements of the salad, making it a perfect side dish to complete the meal.
FAQ
1. Can I make Dooymaaj Salad ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare Dooymaaj Salad just before serving, especially since the lavash bread stays crisp when freshly toasted. However, you can prep the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, then assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.
2. Can I substitute lavash bread with another type of bread?
While lavash bread is traditional, you can use pita or flatbread as alternatives. Just be sure to toast them until crisp, as the crispness is a key texture in this salad.
3. What other herbs can I use in Dooymaaj Salad?
If you can’t find Persian or lemon basil, you can substitute with regular basil. You can also experiment with other herbs such as dill or tarragon to add a new twist to the salad.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta is the traditional choice, you can substitute with crumbled goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a mild aged cheese if you prefer. Just make sure the cheese you choose has a similar crumbly texture and mild tanginess.
Dooymaaj Salad
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- Lavash bread two pieces (8½ by 11½ inches each)
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley 3 cups, coarsely chopped (from 1 bunch)
- Mint leaves 2 cups, coarsely chopped (from 1 small bunch)
- Persian lemon, or other basil, 1¼ cups, coarsely chopped
- Scallions 2, thinly sliced
- Feta cheese crumbled, ½ cup (approximately 2 ounces)
- Walnut halves ½ cup, coarsely chopped
- For the Dressing:
- Red wine vinegar 2 tablespoons
- Dried mint 2 tablespoons
- Kosher salt Diamond Crystal, 1 teaspoon, plus more if needed
- Black pepper ¾ teaspoon, plus more if needed
- Extra-virgin olive oil ¼ cup
- Buttermilk 1 cup
Instructions
- Prepare the Lavash Bread: Begin by placing a rack in the center of your oven and preheating it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Position the lavash bread directly on the rack and toast for approximately 3 minutes, or until crisp. Take care to prevent any burning or over-browning. Once crisp, allow the bread to cool completely, then break it into 2-inch irregular pieces. You may use the bread immediately or store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Make the Dressing: While the bread is cooling, prepare the dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the red wine vinegar, dried mint, salt, and black pepper until the salt has fully dissolved. Gradually add the olive oil and buttermilk, continuing to whisk until the dressing is well combined. This dressing can be used immediately or stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the parsley, mint, basil, scallions, crumbled feta, and chopped walnuts. Top the mixture with the toasted lavash pieces. Drizzle approximately three-quarters of the prepared dressing over the ingredients and gently toss to coat evenly. Taste the salad and, if necessary, add the remaining dressing. Adjust the seasoning to your preference. Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the lavash.
