Italian Recipes

Herbed Bulgur Salad with Pesto, Walnuts, and Almonds

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Bulgur with Fresh Herb Pesto and Walnuts: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Grain Salad

Category: Main Dishes
Serves: 4

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Bulgur 300g
Fresh Mint 10g
Chives 10g
Fresh Basil 30g
Walnut Halves 50g
Sliced Almonds 30g
Extra Virgin Olive Oil q.b. (as needed)
Fine Sea Salt q.b. (to taste)
Garlic 1 clove

Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 7g
Carbohydrates 35g
Fat 22g
Fiber 5g
Sodium 200mg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bulgur:
    Begin by washing the bulgur thoroughly under running water. In a medium saucepan, bring 600 ml of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt. Once boiling, stir in the bulgur and cover with a lid. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the grains to absorb the water and fluff up. The bulgur will double in size, becoming tender yet firm.

  2. Make the Herb Pesto:
    While the bulgur is cooling, prepare the fresh herb pesto. In a food processor (or alternatively, a mortar and pestle), combine the freshly washed and dried herbs—basil, chives, and mint—along with the garlic clove. Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to help the mixing process. Blend until smooth, adding more olive oil gradually until the pesto reaches a creamy, almost velvety texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt.

  3. Combine Bulgur and Pesto:
    Once the bulgur has cooled slightly and is no longer hot, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the freshly made herb pesto over the bulgur and stir thoroughly to coat the grains evenly with the fragrant pesto mixture.

  4. Toast the Almonds and Walnuts:
    In a dry pan, gently toast the sliced almonds and walnut halves for a few minutes over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent them from burning. Once lightly golden and aromatic, remove from heat.

  5. Finishing Touches:
    Add the toasted nuts to the bulgur and pesto mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the nuts are evenly distributed throughout. This will add a delightful crunch to your dish, contrasting beautifully with the creamy pesto and soft bulgur.

  6. Serve:
    Serve this bulgur with fresh herb pesto and walnuts as a light, yet satisfying main dish. The aromatic herbs, crunchy nuts, and the nutty bulgur make for a dish that is both hearty and refreshing. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature, perfect for a casual meal, a picnic, or as a side dish at your next gathering.


Tips for Success:

  • Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on what you have on hand. Parsley, thyme, or even a bit of rosemary can add unique flavors to the pesto.
  • Vegan Version: This recipe is naturally vegan, but you can also add a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor if you desire.
  • Add Extra Veggies: You can enhance this dish by adding roasted or fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, or bell peppers for added texture and color.

This Bulgur with Fresh Herb Pesto and Walnuts is an ideal dish for those seeking a vibrant, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor and satisfying textures. It’s perfect for warm summer days or as a meal prep option to enjoy throughout the week.

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