Tabbouleh is a refreshing and vibrant Levantine salad, widely known for its healthy ingredients and tantalizing flavors. This traditional Middle Eastern dish has a rich history that spans centuries and has become popular worldwide for its fresh ingredients and simplicity. Tabbouleh is renowned for its use of bulgur wheat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.

The origins of Tabbouleh can be traced back to the mountains of Lebanon and Syria, where it was traditionally made by the Bedouins, a nomadic Arab group. Originally, Tabbouleh was considered a summer dish, as it consisted mainly of fresh vegetables and herbs that were abundant during the warmer months.

Tabbouleh’s simple yet flavorful combination of ingredients made it a favorite among locals, and it gradually gained popularity throughout the Levantine region. As trade and cultural exchanges increased over the centuries, Tabbouleh found its way to other parts of the Middle East and beyond, becoming a beloved dish in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Today, Tabbouleh is celebrated as a staple salad in Lebanese cuisine and is cherished in many other cultures for its health benefits and delightful taste. Its popularity has transcended borders, making it a popular choice in restaurants and homes across the globe.

PREP: 35 MIN. + CHILLING

MAKES: 10 SERVINGS

INGREDIENTS

• 1¼ cups bulgur
• 1½ cups boiling water
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 cup chopped peeled cucumber
• ¾ cup minced fresh flat-leaf parsley
• ½ cup thinly sliced green onions
• 3 tablespoons minced fresh mint
• 1¼ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon dill weed
• ¼ teaspoon celery salt
• ⅓ cup lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Place the bulgur in a small bowl and cover it with the boiling water. Allow the bulgur to stand for about 30 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. This will soften the bulgur and allow it to become tender.
2. In a large serving bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, chopped cucumber, minced parsley, sliced green onions, fresh mint, salt, dill weed, and celery salt. These vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs are the heart of the Tabbouleh salad, providing a burst of flavors and colors.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil to create the dressing. The tangy lemon juice and rich olive oil complement the freshness of the vegetables and bring all the flavors together.
4. Pour the lemon juice and olive oil dressing over the vegetable mixture in the serving bowl. Toss the ingredients together, ensuring that all the vegetables and herbs are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Stir in the softened bulgur into the vegetable mixture. The bulgur adds a wholesome and nutty texture to the salad, enhancing its nutritional value.
6. Cover the serving bowl and refrigerate the Tabbouleh salad for at least 4 hours before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious salad.
7. Once the Tabbouleh has been chilled and marinated, it is ready to be served. Enjoy this delightful and healthy Middle Eastern salad as a side dish, appetizer, or even as a light and refreshing main course. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, kebabs, or can be enjoyed on its own for a satisfying and nutritious meal.