As millions around the world prepare for Nowruz—or Persian New Year—here is a collection of some delicious Persian dishes you can try on the special day. From rice dishes to soups and everything in between, these easy Persian recipes can be made with simple ingredients at home.
Curated by Shadi Hasanzade
One of the most unique recipes of Persian origin, Albaloo polo is made with sour cherries, basmati rice and sometimes small meatballs or saffron chicken. You can use fresh or frozen sour cherries to make this recipe.
Delicate cookies with such unique flavor thanks to the chickpea flour. They are naturally gluten-free and stay fresh for a few days.
A delicious refresher that’s perfect for spring. With subtle mint flavor and just enough sweetness, this cooler is just perfect for the warm weather.
This hearty and delicious soup is packed with beans, lentils and an abundance of herbs. Finished with caramelized onion and dried mint, this soup is so comforting.
Fish is a common dish for the New Year. Serving it with Persian herb rice is a classic combination.
There are many versions of Persian love cake. This version calls for almond meal and pistachios, giving it a nice nutty flavor.
So simple and easy, these walnut cookies call for only four ingredients and no chilling is needed. The key to a delicious Persian walnut cookie is to chop the walnuts very finely.
Using Persian staples such as pomegranate molasses and cardamom, this dish is so flavorful. The honey adds a nice touch of sweetness to the fish.
Iranians love nuts and dried fruit and Persian New Year is the perfect time to enjoy some with family and friends. There are different combinations of nuts for different occasions.
These classic cookies are made with egg whites and three other ingredients. They’re easy and not overly sweet.
“Such a good syrup! Delicious used as suggested. Also delicious mixed with sparkling water and some gin.”
-Chef Kate
“Ghorme sabzi is one of my favorite Persian dishes. I used a bag of dried herbs and more limes, then served with Persian rice and Shirazi salad.”
-OlciaK
“This is an incredibly simple and quick recipe. I brought these to two different parties and each time everyone raved about them and asked for the recipe.”
-Mushigaga
These cookies are special in both taste and texture. They are very delicate and are a staple for the Persian New Year.
"Really awesome. Tastes just like the ones from the Iranian store... But even better!"
-Priyapath
Also known as Kuku Sabzi, this recipe is filled with different kinds of herbs and is perfect as a side or appetizer. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for even more flavor.
Sabzi polo is usually made with long grain rice and a combination of herbs such as parsley, cilantro and dill. This rice is usually served with fish for the New Year.
The flavor lies within the marinade. A wonderful combination of onions, olive oil, garlic and lemon makes these kabobs absolutely juicy and delicious.
“Excellent! I also add a bit of sumac and squeeze a bit of extra lemon over the cooked kabobs! My husband and I love this dish!”
-PearTree
"We really enjoyed this grilled chicken. Love the freshness of the lemon, and the cinnamon really adds a great flavor. It was so easy to make. I served it with rice and a side salad. I will definitely make this grilled chicken again."
-DailyInspiration
It’s common to have reshteh polo on the first day of the new year. It’s slightly sweet because of raisins and dates. This classic Persian dish is usually served saffron chicken.
