Tabbouleh is a vibrant Middle Eastern salad known for its abundance of fresh herbs. While the traditional grain used is bulgur, you can experiment with other grains like couscous, quinoa, millet, or rice. The key to creating a delicious tabbouleh lies in the generous amount of fresh herbs used, making it a perfect dish for the summertime. Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or as a refreshing side dish.
MAKES: 4 servings
TIME: 40 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/2 cup fine-grind or medium-grind bulgur
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil (or more as needed)
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 cups roughly chopped fresh parsley leaves (with small stems only)
- 1 cup roughly chopped fresh mint leaves
- 1/2 cup chopped scallion
- 4 medium tomatoes, cored, seeded, and chopped (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Soak the bulgur in hot water until tender, usually between 15 to 30 minutes. Drain the bulgur well, squeezing out as much water as possible.
- In a large bowl, toss the bulgur with the extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Just before serving, add the chopped parsley, mint, scallions, and tomatoes (if using) to the bowl. Gently toss all the ingredients together.
- Taste the tabbouleh and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve and enjoy!
VARIATIONS:
- Tabbouleh with Lots of Tomatoes: To enhance the tomato flavor, reduce the amount of parsley and mint by half and incorporate 6 medium tomatoes, which have been cored, seeded, and chopped.
USES:
- Serve tabbouleh as a refreshing side dish alongside grilled meats, kebabs, or roasted vegetables.
- Use it as a filling for pita bread or wraps by adding some grilled chicken, falafel, or hummus.
- Enjoy tabbouleh on its own as a light and nutritious salad for lunch or dinner.
- Include it in a mezze platter or as part of a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Tabbouleh is a vibrant and herbaceous salad that celebrates the flavors of the Middle East. By using fresh herbs and grains, you can create a delicious and versatile dish that complements various meals. Whether you choose to stick to the traditional bulgur or experiment with different grains, tabbouleh offers a refreshing and light option that’s perfect for summer gatherings and pairs exceptionally well with grilled foods. Customize your tabbouleh by adjusting the seasoning and incorporating additional ingredients like tomatoes. Enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors of tabbouleh as a side dish, filling, or standalone salad.
