Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe

Tabbouleh is a refreshing and vibrant salad that hails from the Levant region, particularly Lebanon. It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. This Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe embodies all those qualities, making it a fantastic addition to your meal rotation. With bulgur wheat as the star, paired with finely chopped vegetables and herbs, this dish is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or as a light lunch on its own.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

The charm of tabbouleh lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The nutty taste of bulgur wheat complements the crispness of cucumbers and the juiciness of tomatoes, while the fresh herbs provide a burst of flavor that awakens the palate. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, this salad is a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Whether served at a family gathering, a picnic, or a weeknight dinner, this Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Shopping List

• 1 cup extra fine bulgur wheat
• 2 cups boiling water (very hot)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 Roma tomatoes, very finely chopped
• 1 English cucumber, seedless and very finely chopped
• 2 bunches parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
• 4 tablespoons lemon juice
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt to taste

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Sharp knife – for finely chopping vegetables and herbs.
• Cutting board – a stable surface for chopping.
• Serving dish – to present your beautiful tabbouleh.

Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur Wheat

Start by placing 1 cup of extra fine bulgur wheat in a mixing bowl. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the bulgur. Cover the bowl with a lid or a clean kitchen towel and let it sit for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the bulgur to absorb the water and soften.

Step 2: Chop Your Vegetables and Herbs

While the bulgur is soaking, take your time to finely chop the Roma tomatoes, English cucumber, parsley, mint leaves, and green onions. The finer you chop the vegetables and herbs, the better they will blend in the salad, creating that signature tabbouleh texture.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

Once the bulgur has absorbed all the water and is fluffy, fluff it with a fork. Add the finely chopped tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint, and green onions to the bulgur.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together 4 tablespoons of lemon juice, 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, and salt to taste. Pour this dressing over the bulgur and vegetable mixture. Toss everything together gently until well combined.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your tabbouleh a taste. You may want to add more salt, lemon juice, or olive oil according to your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the tabbouleh to a serving dish. It can be served immediately or refrigerated for an hour to let the flavors meld. Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy this vibrant salad!

Variations by Season

• Summer: Add diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or butternut squash cubes for a hearty twist.
• Winter: Mix in pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and sweetness.
• Spring: Add radishes for a peppery bite and a pop of color.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

• Using coarse bulgur instead of extra fine can result in a chewy texture rather than the desired lightness.
• Not letting the bulgur soak long enough will lead to a gritty salad.
• Overdressing can make the tabbouleh soggy. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Chopping vegetables too coarsely will alter the traditional texture of tabbouleh.

Storage Pro Tips

The Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the herbs, consider storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving. This will help keep the salad from becoming watery and ensure every bite remains crisp and fresh.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make tabbouleh ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tabbouleh a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

What can I serve with tabbouleh?

This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, warm pita bread, or can be served as part of a mezze platter with hummus and baba ganoush.

Is tabbouleh gluten-free?

Traditional tabbouleh is made with bulgur wheat, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice as a substitute.

Can I add other ingredients to tabbouleh?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like chickpeas, avocado, or even feta cheese for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it may alter the traditional flavor profile.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Easy Hummus Recipe
• Roasted Vegetable Pita
• Baba Ganoush Recipe
• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

That’s a Wrap

In conclusion, this Easy Lebanese Tabbouleh Recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of freshness and a wealth of flavor to your table. With its vibrant colors and nutritious ingredients, it’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right in your kitchen. Happy cooking!