Tabbouleh Recipe: A Fresh and Flavorful Lebanese Salad 🥗
Overview:
Tabbouleh, a vibrant and refreshing Lebanese salad, is a delightful blend of grains and herbs that tantalizes the taste buds with its burst of flavors. This recipe yields a generous portion, perfect for sharing with friends and family, and is a wonderful accompaniment to a spread of Middle Eastern dishes or as a standalone summer delight. With its simple preparation and wholesome ingredients, it’s an excellent addition to your recipe repertoire, especially for those seeking vegan and light yet satisfying options.
Quick Stats:
- Prep Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per Serving: 104.7
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (based on 1 review)
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup bulgur
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1 onion, grated
- 4 bunches of parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, diced
- 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- Iceberg lettuce leaves, for serving
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | In a bowl, mix the bulgur with the hot water and allow it to stand for 1 hour to soften and absorb the water, ensuring a tender texture. |
| 2 | Using a pestle, pound the grated onion into the soaked bulgur, infusing it with the onion’s pungent aroma and flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile. |
| 3 | Incorporate the finely chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, and chopped mint into the bulgur mixture, creating a colorful medley of fresh ingredients that provide a burst of freshness with every bite. |
| 4 | In a separate small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined, forming a zesty dressing that will enliven the salad with its tangy and savory notes. |
| 5 | Pour the prepared dressing over the parsley mixture, ensuring even distribution, and gently toss until all ingredients are evenly coated, allowing the flavors to meld together harmoniously. |
| 6 | Chill the tabbouleh in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to intensify and the salad to chill, enhancing its crispness and refreshing appeal. |
| 7 | To serve, arrange the tabbouleh on a large platter, surrounded by crisp iceberg lettuce leaves, providing a vibrant and inviting presentation that entices the senses. |
| 8 | Encourage diners to scoop up the flavorful tabbouleh with the crisp lettuce leaves, embracing the tradition of enjoying this vibrant salad with their hands, fostering a communal dining experience filled with shared enjoyment. |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 104.7
- Fat: 7.1g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 165.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 9.9g
- Fiber: 2.7g
- Sugar: 1.9g
- Protein: 2.1g
Serving Suggestions:
- Tabbouleh pairs beautifully with freshly baked pita bread, hummus, and a selection of olives, creating a Middle Eastern-inspired mezze platter that offers a variety of flavors and textures.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or kebabs for a wholesome and satisfying meal that celebrates the bounty of seasonal produce.
- For a light and refreshing lunch, enjoy tabbouleh stuffed into whole-grain wraps or pita pockets, providing a portable and nutritious meal option for on-the-go enjoyment.
Tips:
- To enhance the flavor and texture of the tabbouleh, consider adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers for an extra crunch and a burst of freshness.
- For a gluten-free variation, substitute the bulgur with cooked quinoa or millet, ensuring a suitable option for individuals with dietary restrictions.
- Customize the seasoning according to personal preference, adjusting the amount of lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to achieve the desired balance of flavors.
- Make ahead of time and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, allowing for easy meal prep and convenient access to a nutritious and delicious salad option throughout the week.
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this traditional Lebanese tabbouleh salad, brimming with wholesome ingredients and aromatic herbs, for a culinary journey that transports you to the heart of the Mediterranean. Bursting with freshness and vitality, it’s a celebration of summer’s bounty and a testament to the joy of simple yet exquisite cuisine. Gather your loved ones and embark on a culinary adventure filled with shared moments of culinary delight and cherished memories.
