Fresh and Healthy Tabbouleh Recipe: A High-Protein Middle Eastern Salad
Tabbouleh is a fresh and vibrant Mediterranean salad that’s both healthy and easy to prepare. The main ingredients in this recipe are couscous, a type of broken wheat, combined with an abundance of fresh herbs like parsley, and the classic flavors of tomatoes, cucumber, lemon, and olive oil. This tabbouleh recipe celebrates simplicity, focusing on fresh ingredients that bring bright and zesty flavors to the table. I love to season it with traditional ingredients like parsley, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil, which elevate the flavor profile and create a refreshing, nutrient-packed dish.
You can easily customize this Mediterranean salad by adding carrots or your favorite vegetables—there’s no wrong way to make tabbouleh! I personally enjoy serving it alongside warm pita bread, crispy falafel, and creamy hummus for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing it as an appetizer, a side dish, or even a light lunch, this tabbouleh recipe is the perfect addition to any meal.
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Couscous | 1 cup |
| Parsley leaves, chopped | 1 cup |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato | 1, finely chopped |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Onion | 1, finely chopped |
| Cucumber | 1, finely chopped |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
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Prepare the couscous: Start by placing the couscous in a large bowl. Pour 1-1/2 cups of boiling water over the couscous. Cover the bowl and let it sit for about an hour to allow the couscous to absorb the water. Once the water is absorbed, drain any excess liquid.
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Combine the ingredients: Add the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, finely chopped onions, fresh parsley, tomatoes, and cucumber to the soaked couscous. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together thoroughly to combine the ingredients.
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Chill and let the flavors develop: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the tabbouleh for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the parsley and lemon juice to infuse the couscous, giving the salad a richer flavor.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the tabbouleh chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, homemade falafel, and a side of hummus. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or as a flavorful appetizer at your next gathering.
Tabbouleh is a dish that not only tastes delicious but also provides a healthy serving of vegetables and whole grains, making it a nutrient-dense option for any meal. Whether you’re packing it for a lunch or serving it at a festive Mediterranean-inspired feast, this dish will surely become a favorite. Enjoy!
