29 May 2025
Cook time 15 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1 cup brown rice
4 tomatoes
1 bunch fresh parsley
1/3 cup spearmint
1/2 red onion
2 garlic cloves
2 tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup vinegar
Brown rice tabouli is a nutritious and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish that swaps traditional bulgur wheat with wholesome brown rice. It’s a perfect blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a tangy dressing, making it a great choice for a light lunch or a healthy side.
Instructions:
1. Cook the Brown Rice:
- Rinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the rinsed brown rice to the boiling water.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and allow it to cool completely.
2. Prepare Vegetables and Herbs:
- Dice 4 tomatoes into small pieces.
- Finely chop the bunch of fresh parsley and 1/3 cup of spearmint.
- Dice 1/2 red onion into small pieces.
- Mince 2 cloves of garlic.
3. Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled brown rice, diced tomatoes, chopped parsley, spearmint, and red onion.
- Add the minced garlic to the mixture.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1/3 cup of vinegar until well combined.
5. Mix the Tabouli:
- Pour the dressing over the rice and vegetable mixture.
- Toss everything together until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Season to Taste:
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
7. Chill Before Serving:
- Cover the bowl and let the tabouli chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Serve:
- Serve the brown rice tabouli chilled as a side dish or a light meal.
Tips:
- Cook the brown rice ahead of time and let it cool completely for the best texture.
- Finely chop the vegetables and herbs to ensure a uniform and well-mixed salad.
- Adjust the amount of garlic and vinegar to taste, depending on your preference for tanginess and spice.
- Let the tabouli sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the overall flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
Brown rice tabouli is a delightful way to enjoy a healthy, vibrant dish packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re serving it as a main meal or a side, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds and provide a wholesome addition to your meal plan.