Aahoo Jahansouzshahi, later known as Sarah Shahi, was born in Euless, Texas, to Abbas Jahansouzshahi and Mahmonir Soursati. Her father was from Iran, and her mother was from Spain. Her mixed heritage undoubtedly contributed to her striking looks, setting the stage for her future endeavors.

During her teenage years, Shahi participated in and won several beauty pageants, including Miss Fort Worth USA in 1997. This early exposure to performance and public attention honed her stage presence and confidence, qualities that would prove invaluable in her acting career. She also worked as a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. In 1999, she was on the cover of their calendar.