Tabbouleh

When I think of summer, my mind immediately drifts to the refreshing taste of Tabbouleh. This vibrant salad is a staple in my kitchen, especially when the sun is shining and the days are long. I remember the first time I tried it at a family gathering, where each bite was bursting with the flavors of fresh herbs and zesty lemon. Since then, it has become a beloved dish in my home, often served at picnics or as a side for grilled meats. There’s something magical about the combination of finely chopped parsley, tangy lemon juice, and fluffy bulgur wheat that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to my table.

Tabbouleh Shopping List

To create a delicious Tabbouleh, you’ll need some fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in developing the dish’s unique and aromatic flavor profile. The fragrant herbs and zesty dressing work together to create a salad that is not only tasty but also vibrant and appealing.

• 3 large bunches fresh parsley – The main ingredient, providing freshness and nutrition.
• ½ cup fine-ground bulgur wheat – This adds a hearty texture and absorbs the flavors of the dressing.
• 1 cup hot water – Used to soften the bulgur.
• 2 to 3 medium lemons, juiced – Their acidity brightens the dish wonderfully.
• ¾ cup olive oil – Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Provides a subtle kick.
• 4 sprigs fresh mint leaves, minced – Offers a refreshing twist.
• 1 medium onion, minced – Adds depth to the salad.
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced – Brings juiciness and color to the mix.
• Romaine lettuce leaves, for serving (optional) – Perfect for scooping the salad.

How to Cook Tabbouleh

Cooking Tabbouleh is all about combining fresh ingredients with care. It’s a process that’s as much about the experience as the final dish. Follow these steps, and you’ll end up with a beautiful, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Start by washing the parsley thoroughly. It’s important to remove any dirt. Once clean, dry it completely. I like to use a salad spinner for this, but you can also pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Next, gather the parsley leaves by the stems. With a sharp paring knife, roll the leaves tightly together and slice them into thin strips. Continue chopping until all the parsley is finely shredded, ensuring a pleasant texture in your salad.
3. Now, take a medium bowl and place the bulgur wheat inside. Pour in the hot water and allow it to soak for about ten minutes, or until it softens. This step is crucial for getting that fluffy texture.
4. After soaking, drain the bulgur using a fine mesh sieve. Press it gently with the back of a spoon to remove excess water. This will help prevent your salad from becoming soggy. Once drained, fluff the bulgur with a fork.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the juice of your lemons, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. The aroma of freshly squeezed lemon juice mixed with oil is simply divine!
6. In a large bowl, combine the chopped parsley, soaked bulgur, minced mint, onion, and diced tomatoes. Gently mix these together, taking care not to mash the ingredients.
7. Pour the dressing over your parsley mixture. Use a spatula to fold everything together gently, ensuring every piece gets coated with that zesty dressing.
8. Once combined, transfer your Tabbouleh to a serving bowl. If you like, you can present it on a bed of romaine lettuce leaves, which adds a nice crunch and makes for an attractive presentation.
9. Let the salad rest in the fridge for a little while to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional, but it definitely enhances the taste.
10. Finally, serve your Tabbouleh chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors!

Recipe Variations about Tabbouleh

There are so many ways to enjoy Tabbouleh! Not only can you play with ingredients, but you can also try it in different contexts. Here are some variations to consider:

• Add protein: Consider topping your Tabbouleh with grilled chicken or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
• Use different grains: Instead of bulgur wheat, try quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor. They both work beautifully in this salad.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeño to the mix.
• Herb variations: While parsley is traditional, you can also use cilantro or basil to give the salad a unique twist.
• Dress it differently: Experiment with a tahini dressing or a yogurt-based dressing for a creamier flavor.
• Storing leftovers: If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Enjoy them within a couple of days for the best flavor.
• Freezing: Tabbouleh does not freeze well, as the fresh herbs lose their texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

What to Serve With Tabbouleh

When it comes to serving Tabbouleh, the possibilities are delightful and diverse. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled meats: Pair this refreshing salad with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish. The lightness of Tabbouleh complements hearty proteins beautifully.
• Wrap it up: Serve Tabbouleh inside pita bread with hummus and sliced vegetables for a vibrant wrap.
• Perfect for picnics: This salad is ideal for outdoor gatherings, as it travels well and is best served cold.
• Vegetarian meals: It’s a fantastic addition to a vegetarian platter, alongside dishes like falafel and baba ghanoush.
• For brunch: Offer Tabbouleh as part of a brunch spread. It pairs wonderfully with eggs or a light frittata.
• Seasonal pairings: Enjoy it during summer barbecues or as a refreshing side dish for fall harvest meals.

FAQ

Conclusion

The refreshing flavors and vibrant colors of Tabbouleh make it a standout dish for any summer gathering. Its combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon creates a salad that is not only delicious but also nutritious. I encourage you to give it a try; once you experience the bright flavors, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your meals. Enjoy the process of making it, and relish the joy it brings to your table.

Tabbouleh

The ultimate summer salad, Tabbouleh is a refreshing mix of herbs, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. Bursting with flavor, it's perfect for warm days and gatherings. Enjoy this easy, healthy dish as a side or light meal tonight!

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Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Salads, Side Dishes

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 bunches fresh parsley
• ½ cup fine-ground bulgur wheat
• 1 cup hot water
• 2 to 3 medium lemons, juiced
• ¾ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 4 sprigs fresh mint leaves, minced
• 1 medium onion, minced
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• romaine lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Food Processor
• Cutting Board
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Wash the parsley and completely dry it. Holding them by the stems, gather a handful of parsley leaves together in one hand. Roll the leaves tightly together and use a sharp paring knife to cut them into thin strips. Repeat this process until all the parsley is chopped.
2. Put the bulgur in a medium bowl and pour the water on top; soak until softened, about 10 minutes. Drain the bulgur in a fine mesh sieve, pressing with the back of a spoon to extract the excess water. Fluff the bulgur with a fork.
3. Whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Gently combine the parsley, bulgur, mint, onion, tomato, and dressing in a large bowl.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl; if desired, serve the Tabbouleh with lettuce leaves to scoop up the salad.

Notes

• Lemon Juice: We like our Tabbouleh tangy, so I usually use the juice of 3 lemons. If you don't want it quite as tangy, start with the juice of 1 lemon and add more to taste.

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Meet Margot Vance

Founding Savor Feasts was my way of celebrating the art of generous cooking. I believe that food should be abundant, flavorful, and memorable. I personally cook, test, and photograph our recipes to ensure they bring a sense of occasion to your table, whether it is a simple dinner or a grand holiday celebration.