Homemade Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh is a refreshing Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, fresh herbs, and vegetables. It's a popular side dish or appetizer, and it's also a great way to use up leftover bulgur. This recipe is for a classic tabbouleh salad, but you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different herbs, vegetables, or even fruits.

Tabbouleh is thought to have originated in Lebanon, where it is a staple dish. The name tabbouleh comes from the Arabic word "tabala", which means "to season". This refers to the process of seasoning the bulgur wheat with herbs and spices. Tabbouleh is typically made with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions, mint, parsley, and olive oil. However, there are many variations on the recipe, and it can be made with other grains, such as quinoa or couscous, and with different vegetables, such as cucumbers or peppers. Tabbouleh is a refreshing and flavorful salad that is perfect for a summer meal.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup bulgur wheat
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh mint
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the bulgur wheat and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and all of the water has been absorbed.
2. Transfer the bulgur to a large bowl and let cool slightly.
3. Add the tomatoes, onion, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bulgur. Stir to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Why It Works

• The bulgur wheat is cooked in water until it is tender and all of the water has been absorbed. This makes the bulgur wheat light and fluffy.
• The chopped tomatoes, onion, mint, and parsley add freshness and flavor to the salad.
• The olive oil and lemon juice add moisture and acidity to the salad.
• The salt and pepper add seasoning to the salad.