Delight in the harmonious blend of flavors and textures with our classic Tabouleh salad recipe. Originating from the Middle East, this vibrant dish brings together the wholesome goodness of bulgur wheat, an array of fresh herbs, and a medley of diced vegetables. Whether enjoyed as a light meal on its own or as a companion to grilled delights, this Tabouleh recipe is a testament to the art of creating simple yet incredibly satisfying dishes.
What is great about Tabouleh?
Tabouleh is primarily made with fresh and wholesome ingredients, including plenty of parsley and mint. These herbs contribute to its vibrant green color and provide a refreshing, crisp taste. The use of vegetables and whole grains like bulgur makes Tabouleh a nutritious choice.
Tabouleh has a light and refreshing flavor profile, thanks to the combination of herbs, vegetables, and citrusy dressing. It's particularly well-suited for warm weather or as a side dish to balance out heavier meals.
Parsley, one of the main ingredients in Tabouleh, is packed with vitamins such as vitamin K, vitamin C, and vitamin A. It also contains antioxidants and is believed to have various health benefits.
Tabouleh has a long history and is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. It's a dish that's often shared among family and friends during gatherings and celebrations, making it an integral part of the region's culinary culture.
Tips
The key to a great Tabouleh is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions. Avoid wilted or overripe vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Tabouleh should have a consistent and finely chopped texture. Use a sharp knife and take your time to finely chop the herbs and vegetables. This ensures that you get a balanced bite of flavors in every mouthful.
If you're using bulgur, soak it in water until it's soft and tender. Drain any excess water before adding it to the salad. You can also use other grains like quinoa or couscous as a substitute.
Tabouleh
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: N/A
Yield: 4 Servings
Ingredients:
1 cup bulgur
2 cups finely chopped fresh parsley
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint
2 medium tomatoes, diced (seeded and drained if preferred)
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Place 1 cup of bulgur wheat in a bowl. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the bulgur, ensuring it's fully covered. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about 20 minutes until the bulgur is tender.
While the bulgur is soaking, finely chop 2 cups of fresh parsley and 1/2 cup of fresh mint leaves. Dice 2 medium tomatoes and finely chop 1/2 cup of red onion.
In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of olive oil with the juice of 2 lemons to create the dressing.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped parsley, chopped mint, diced tomatoes, and chopped red onion.
Once the bulgur is ready, fluff it with a fork and add it to the mixing bowl with the other ingredients.
Pour the olive oil and lemon dressing over the mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
After the Tabouleh has rested, give it a final mix. Serve the Tabouleh as a side dish, on its own as a light meal, or as a topping for other dishes.
Optional: Garnish the Tabouleh with additional mint leaves for a fresh look.
Enjoy your homemade Tabouleh!
Suggested Pairing
This wine's crisp acidity and herbal notes can complement the fresh herbs in Tabouleh. It also offers citrusy flavors that can enhance the dish's tangy dressing.
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