Tabbouleh Recipe - Authentic Lebanese Salad

Looking to add a fresh, nutritious dish to your repertoire? Tabbouleh salad is a great choice. Packed with vibrant flavors and health benefits, this Middle Eastern classic is perfect for health enthusiasts and vegetarians alike. Let's get started!

What is Tabbouleh Salad?

Tabbouleh salad is a traditional Levantine dish known for its fresh ingredients and zesty flavors. It's typically made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a light dressing of olive oil and lemon juice. Not only is it delicious, but it also offers numerous health benefits:

• Rich in Fiber: Thanks to bulgur and fresh veggies.
• High in Vitamins: Particularly Vitamin C and Vitamin K from parsley and tomatoes.
• Low in Calories: A guilt-free addition to any meal.

Ingredients and Where to Find Them

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 cup bulgur wheat (found in most grocery stores or Middle Eastern markets)
• 2 bunches fresh parsley (preferably flat-leaf)
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
• 4 ripe tomatoes
• 1 small onion (or 4-5 green onions)
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

• Cucumber for added crunch
• Garlic for extra flavor
• Pomegranate seeds for a sweet, tangy twist

How to Prepare Tabbouleh Salad

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious tabbouleh salad:

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur

1. Rinse 1 cup of bulgur wheat under cold water.
2. Place bulgur in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

1. Finely chop 2 bunches of fresh parsley and 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves.
2. Dice 4 ripe tomatoes.
3. Mince 1 small onion or thinly slice 4-5 green onions.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine the drained bulgur, chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions.
2. Pour 1/3 cup of olive oil and 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice over the mixture.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Serve chilled.

Customizing Your Tabbouleh Salad

Everyone has their own tastes, so here are a few tips to make this dish your own:

• Add Cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
• Include Garlic for a bit of a kick.
• Toss in Pomegranate Seeds for a burst of sweetness and color.
• Use Quinoa instead of bulgur for a gluten-free version.

Serving Suggestions and Nutritional Information

Serving Suggestions:

• As a Side Dish: Pairs well with grilled meats or falafel.
• In a Pita: Makes for a wonderful, portable lunch.
• On its Own: Enjoy as a light and healthy main course.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 120
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin C and K

Conclusion

Tabbouleh salad is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse that can easily be tailored to suit your personal tastes. We hope you enjoy making and eating this vibrant dish. If you give it a try, we'd love to hear about your results or any tweaks you made to the recipe. Don't hesitate to share your experience with us!

Happy cooking! 🍴