If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make salad, tabouli is the perfect choice! This traditional Middle Eastern salad is not only tasty but also incredibly nutritious. With its fresh combination of vegetables, herbs, and bulgur, it’s a great option for a light lunch or as a side dish to any main course.

Let’s take a closer look at how to make tabouli and what health benefits it brings!

Ingredients 🛒:

To make traditional tabouli, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup bulgur (preferably fine bulgur for better texture)
2-3 tomatoes, diced
1 cucumber, peeled and diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped (at least 2 cups of chopped parsley)
1/2 cup fresh mint, finely chopped
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (squeezed)
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions 📝:

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur 🍚

The first thing you need to do is prepare the bulgur. Place the bulgur in a deep bowl and cover it with boiling water. Let it soak for about 10-15 minutes until it absorbs the water and softens. Afterward, drain any excess water and set it aside to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables 🥒

While the bulgur is soaking, chop the tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into small cubes or thin strips. To achieve an even fresher taste, you can use tomatoes with fewer seeds and watery parts, which will prevent the salad from becoming too soggy.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Herbs 🌿

Now, chop the fresh parsley and mint. These herbs give the salad its signature flavor and freshness, so be generous with them. The more fresh herbs, the better!

Step 4: Mix Everything Together 🍴

Once the bulgur has cooled, it’s time to bring everything together. In a large bowl, combine the bulgur with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together gently until well mixed.

Step 5: Let It Sit for a While ⏳

For the best flavor, let the tabouli sit for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad even more delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Tabouli Salad ❤️

Fresh and light – This salad is the perfect balance of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it refreshing and light yet filling.
Quick and easy to make – It’s a great go-to when you’re looking for a healthy, hassle-free dish.
Packed with nutrients – Tabouli is not only delicious but also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s an excellent source of vitamin C from the fresh parsley and lemon juice, fiber from the bulgur, and antioxidants from the fresh vegetables and mint.
Perfect for any occasion – Whether it’s a picnic, a barbecue, or a quick meal at home, tabouli always makes an impression.

Health Benefits of Tabouli 🥗

Not only is tabouli super tasty, but it also brings plenty of health benefits! Let’s take a closer look at what makes it so nutritious:

Tomatoes: Packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium, tomatoes are great for boosting immunity, maintaining healthy skin, and supporting heart health. They also contain lycopene, an antioxidant that has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Cucumber: Cucumber is a great hydrating vegetable, rich in vitamin K for bone health. It’s also high in silica, which helps improve skin health and joint function.
Parsley: This vibrant herb is packed with vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health. It also contains vitamin C and iron, supporting immune function and energy levels.
Mint: Fresh mint is a refreshing herb that aids in digestion, reduces bloating, and helps soothe headaches. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which protect your body from oxidative stress.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is a healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fats that support heart health. It’s also loaded with vitamin E, promoting healthy skin and acting as an anti-inflammatory.

Final Thoughts 💭

Tabouli is not just a salad—it’s a burst of freshness, nutrition, and flavor in every bite. It’s the perfect dish for a hot summer day, a healthy lunch, or even a side dish at dinner(More Dinner Recipe). With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s easy to make but tastes like a special treat.

So the next time you’re in the mood for something light, vibrant, and packed with nutrients, give tabouli a try. You won’t regret it!