The Origin of Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh dates back to the Middle Ages and is a traditional dish of the Levantine cuisine, particularly in Lebanon and Syria. However, its popularity has spread far and wide, becoming a beloved staple in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The name ‘Tabbouleh’ comes from the Arabic word ‘taabil’, which means ‘to season’ or ‘to spice’.

The beauty of Tabbouleh lies in its simplicity and freshness. It’s a straightforward dish that relies heavily on the quality of its ingredients. As such, it’s a true testament to the flavors of the Mediterranean, where high-quality, fresh produce is a staple in every household.

What Makes Tabbouleh a Unique Salad?

What sets Tabbouleh apart from other salads is its emphasis on herbs. Unlike most salads that use greens as their base, Tabbouleh uses a combination of finely chopped parsley and mint as its foundation. This gives the salad its characteristic fresh, vibrant flavor that’s unmistakably Mediterranean.

Moreover, Tabbouleh uses bulgur wheat, which provides a pleasant chewy texture and a subtle nutty flavor. This, along with the freshness of the herbs, the sweetness of the tomatoes, and the tanginess of the lemon dressing, creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that’s absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. It’s a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats and fish, making it an ideal side dish for barbecues and summer parties. Additionally, it’s a great addition to any mezze platter, alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and falafel.

Alternatively, you can enjoy Tabbouleh on its own as a light, refreshing meal. Because of its high nutrient content, it’s a great option for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing on flavor. After all, who said healthy eating has to be boring?

Ingredients

1 cup bulgur wheat
2 bunches fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 bunch fresh mint, finely chopped
3 medium tomatoes, finely diced
4 spring onions, finely sliced
Juice of 2 lemons
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Soak the bulgur wheat in warm water for about 30 minutes, or until it becomes soft and chewy. Drain and set aside.
While the bulgur wheat is soaking, prepare your herbs and vegetables. Make sure to chop them as finely as possible for the best texture.
In a large bowl, combine the drained bulgur wheat, chopped herbs, diced tomatoes, and sliced spring onions.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine. Allow the salad to rest for a while so the flavors can meld together.
Before serving, give the salad another good toss. Serve at room temperature for the best flavor.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time)

Tips for Tabbouleh

Always use fresh herbs for Tabbouleh as they give the salad its characteristic flavor. When chopping the herbs, be sure to chop them very finely. This will give the salad the best texture. Also, always dress the salad just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

Tabbouleh is a recipe that appeals to all the senses. Its vibrant colors, fresh aroma, and diverse textures make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. It’s also incredibly healthy, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibers, making it a delicious and nutritious choice for any meal of the day.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 200 kcal
Fat: 14g
Carbs: 20g
Protein: 4g

Tabbouleh