Tabouli (or Tabouleh) is a classic Middle Eastern salad known for its refreshing taste, vibrant colors, and healthy ingredients. Bursting with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat, this salad is perfect as a light meal, a side dish, or a party appetizer. Its tangy lemon dressing and the crunchy texture of the vegetables make it a favorite among salad enthusiasts. Here’s how you can make this delicious and nutritious salad at home.
Ingredients
– **1 cup bulgur wheat**
– **2 cups boiling water**
– **1 large cucumber**, finely diced
– **4 ripe tomatoes**, finely diced
– **1 large bunch of fresh parsley**, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
– **1/2 cup fresh mint leaves**, finely chopped
– **1 small red onion**, finely chopped
– **1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil**
– **3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice**
– **1 teaspoon salt** (or to taste)
– **1/2 teaspoon black pepper** (or to taste)
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Bulgur Wheat**:
– Place the bulgur wheat in a large bowl. Pour the boiling water over it and cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap. Let it sit for about 20 minutes or until the bulgur is tender and the water is absorbed.
– Fluff the bulgur with a fork to separate the grains. Allow it to cool to room temperature.
2. **Chop the Vegetables and Herbs**:
– While the bulgur is cooling, prepare the vegetables and herbs. Dice the cucumber and tomatoes, and finely chop the parsley, mint, and red onion.
3. **Combine Ingredients**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled bulgur wheat, diced cucumber, tomatoes, chopped parsley, mint, and red onion.
4. **Prepare the Dressing**:
– In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. **Mix and Serve**:
– Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well coated.
– Let the tabouli salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
6. **Garnish and Enjoy**:
– Garnish with additional fresh herbs or a lemon wedge if desired.
– Serve as a refreshing side dish, a light lunch, or a vibrant addition to your favorite Middle Eastern meal.
Tips for Perfect Tabouli Salad
– **Fresh Herbs**: Use fresh parsley and mint for the best flavor. Dried herbs will not provide the same vibrant taste.
– **Bulgur Wheat**: Ensure the bulgur is fully cooked and cooled before mixing with other ingredients to maintain the salad’s crisp texture.
– **Vegetable Size**: Dice the vegetables into small, uniform pieces for a more cohesive texture and appearance.
Conclusion
Tabouli Salad is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal, offering a burst of fresh flavors and textures with every bite. Its combination of bulgur wheat, vegetables, and herbs, dressed with a tangy lemon vinaigrette, makes it a refreshing choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish for dinner, or a dish to impress your guests, this Tabouli Salad recipe is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the vibrant taste of this Middle Eastern classic and make it a regular part of your culinary repertoire.