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A Delightful Tabouli Salad Recipe (Tabbouleh)

Tabouli, or tabbouleh, is a traditional Middle Eastern salad that has gained popularity around the globe for its fresh flavours and nutritious ingredients. Originating from the Levant region, particularly Lebanon and Syria, this vibrant dish showcases herbs, vegetables, and bulgur wheat, all balanced harmoniously. Its refreshing nature makes it a perfect side dish for summer gatherings or an exciting addition to any meal.

Ingredients

To create a delightful tabouli salad, you will need the following fresh ingredients:

• 100g bulgur wheat
• 250ml water
• 1 large bunch of fresh parsley (approximately 100g), finely chopped
• 30g fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 4 spring onions, finely chopped
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur Wheat

Start by rinsing the bulgur wheat under cold water to remove any impurities. In a saucepan, bring 250ml of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the rinsed bulgur wheat and a pinch of salt. Stir, then cover the saucepan and remove it from the heat. Let it stand for about 15-20 minutes to allow the bulgur to absorb the water and expand.

Step 2: Chop the Herbs and Vegetables

While the bulgur is cooking, wash and chop the parsley and mint finely. Prepare the tomatoes and cucumber by dicing them into small, even pieces. Chop the spring onions, ensuring you include both the white and green parts for added flavour and colour.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Once the bulgur wheat is cooked and has cooled to room temperature, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. In a large mixing bowl, combine the bulgur with the prepared parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and spring onions.

Step 4: Dress the Salad

In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Pour this dressing over the salad mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Let it Rest and Serve

For the best flavours, let the tabouli sit covered in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. Tabouli can be served as a refreshing side dish or as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, baba ganoush, and pita bread.

Tip for Perfect Tabouli

The quality and freshness of your ingredients are paramount when it comes to preparing tabouli. Opt for vibrant, organic vegetables and herbs whenever possible. The more fresh and aromatic your parsley and mint, the better your tabouli will taste.

Conclusion

Tabouli salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious option packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Its delightful blend of flavours and textures, coupled with its simplicity, makes it a beloved dish worldwide. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply seeking a fresh accompaniment to your meal, this tabouli salad recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!

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