Who says salads have to be boring? If you're looking for something fresh, zesty, and packed with vibrant flavors, you've got to try tabbouleh! This Middle Eastern classic is a mix of fresh herbs, crunchy veggies, and nutty bulgur wheat, all tossed in a tangy dressing.
It's perfect as a side dish, a light meal, or even a picnic favorite. Best of all, it's easy to make and gets even better as the flavors blend together!
What We Need to Make Tabbouleh?
The magic of tabbouleh comes from its fresh ingredients. Here's what we'll need:
Fresh Herbs – The Heart of Tabbouleh
We use a generous amount of curly parsley, which gives the salad its signature green color and fresh taste. Unlike Italian flat-leaf parsley, curly parsley has a lighter texture and a more delicate flavor, making it perfect for tabbouleh. Fresh mint adds a cool, refreshing touch that balances the rest of the ingredients.
Bulgur Wheat – Nutty and Chewy
Bulgur wheat is a type of cracked wheat that's been partially cooked and dried. It adds a slightly chewy texture and nutty flavor to the salad. Traditional tabbouleh uses fine bulgur, but if you can't find it, coarse bulgur works just as well.
Crunchy Veggies – A Burst of Freshness
We love using English or Persian cucumbers for their crisp texture and mild flavor. If you're using a regular cucumber, it's best to peel and remove the seeds to avoid bitterness. Juicy tomatoes bring a pop of color and a little sweetness to balance the flavors.
Aromatic Additions – For Extra Depth
Chopped scallions and a little grated garlic add a mild kick that makes the salad even more flavorful. A pinch of ground coriander and cinnamon brings subtle warmth and depth.
The Dressing – Light but Zesty
A simple mix of fresh lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil ties everything together. The lemon juice brightens up the salad, while the olive oil adds a smooth richness. A little sea salt enhances all the flavors, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Tabbouleh?
Step 1: Chop the Herbs by Hand
Yes, there's a lot of chopping involved, but trust us, it's worth it! Instead of using a food processor, which can bruise the herbs and make them soggy, we finely chop the parsley and mint by hand. This keeps the salad light and fresh.
Step 2: Prepare the Bulgur
If you're using coarse bulgur, bring 2 cups of water to a boil, add 1 cup of dry bulgur, then cover the pan and remove it from heat. Let it sit for about 20–30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water and fluff it with a fork. For fine bulgur, simply soak it in water for 20 minutes until soft, then drain. Let the bulgur cool before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Mix Everything Together
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, sea salt, coriander, and cinnamon. Add the finely chopped parsley, mint, cucumbers, tomatoes, scallions, and cooked bulgur. Toss everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Let It Chill and Enjoy!
Tabbouleh tastes even better after it sits for a while, so let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. You can serve it fresh or store it in the fridge for up to 3 days—it just keeps getting tastier!
Best Ways to Enjoy Tabbouleh
We love tabbouleh as a side dish, but it's also great in different ways! Here are some ideas:
• With Mediterranean Dishes: Pair it with hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki for a delicious mezze platter.
• With Pita Bread: Scoop it up with warm pita for a satisfying bite.
• With Grilled Dishes: It's a perfect side for grilled veggies or plant-based patties.
• As a Wrap Filling: Add it to wraps with falafel or roasted veggies for a fresh and flavorful meal.
• With a Crunchy Twist: Sprinkle toasted nuts or serve with olives for extra texture.
Let's Talk Tabbouleh!
What do you think, Lykkers? Are you excited to try this fresh and zesty salad? Let us know how you like to serve tabbouleh and if you have any fun twists on this classic dish! Happy cooking! 🌿🥗
