Tabouli

Tabouli is a refreshing Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, dressed in lemon juice and olive oil. It's a vibrant side dish that offers a healthy balance of tangy and savory flavors, perfect for any meal.

12 Jan 2026
Cook time 0 min
Prep time 50 min

Ingredients:

1/3 cup bulgur
2 tomatoes
1/3 cup lemon juice
1 cup spearmint
1 cup scallions
1/4 cup olive oil
Tabouli

Tabouli, also known as tabbouleh, is a fresh and light Middle Eastern salad that is highly nutritious and flavorful. With a base of bulgur wheat, this dish is enhanced with fresh vegetables and herbs, offering a vibrant and healthy option that's perfect for any meal. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil dressing brings all the ingredients together in a harmonious blend of tangy and savory flavors.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Bulgur:
- Place the 1/3 cup of bulgur in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour 2/3 cup of boiling water over the bulgur.
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bulgur has absorbed the water and is tender.
- Fluff the bulgur with a fork to separate the grains.
2. Chop the Vegetables:
- Dice the 2 tomatoes into small, even pieces.
- Finely chop the 1 cup of spearmint leaves.
- Slice the 1 cup of scallions thinly.
3. Mix Ingredients:
- In the bowl with the fluffed bulgur, add the diced tomatoes, chopped spearmint, and sliced scallions.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 1/3 cup of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of olive oil until well combined.
5. Combine and Toss:
- Pour the lemon juice and olive oil dressing over the bulgur and vegetable mixture.
- Toss all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well mixed and evenly coated with the dressing.
6. Season to Taste:
- Taste your tabouli and add salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
7. Chill and Serve:
- Ideally, cover the tabouli and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature as a refreshing side dish or salad.

Tabouli is a versatile and refreshing salad that can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a side to complement grilled meats and other Middle Eastern favorites. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe offers a delicious and wholesome option that’s perfect for any occasion. Impress your family and friends with this flavorful and nutritious salad.

Tabouli FAQ:

How long should I let the bulgur soak?

Let the bulgur soak in boiling water for about 15-20 minutes, or until it has absorbed the water and is tender. Fluff it with a fork afterward.

Can I use other types of grains instead of bulgur?

Yes, you can substitute bulgur with quinoa or couscous, keeping in mind that the cooking times and water ratios may differ. Adjust them accordingly.

How should I store leftover tabouli?

Store leftover tabouli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It may lose some crunchiness, so consume it relatively quickly for best quality.

What can I substitute for spearmint?

If you don't have spearmint, you can use fresh parsley, though it will change the flavor profile. You could also try other herbs like cilantro for a different taste.

How do I know if the tabouli is properly seasoned?

Taste the tabouli after combining all ingredients. If it lacks flavor, you can add salt, pepper, or more lemon juice to enhance it. Adjust gradually, tasting as you go.

Cooking Tips:

- Allow the bulgur to soak in boiling water for about 20-30 minutes until it is tender. Drain any excess water before mixing with other ingredients.

- Chop the vegetables and herbs finely to ensure a consistent texture and mix of flavors in every bite.

- Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best flavor and texture.

- Feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice and olive oil to your taste preference.

Nutrition Facts

8 Servings
Calories 30kcal
Protein 1.13g
Carbohydrates 7g
Fiber 1.31g
Sugar 1.45g
Fat 8g

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