Classic Tabouli Recipe: Easy and Flavorful Middle Easter Salad

This section will guide you through a classic tabouli recipe using simple steps. This version follows the traditional style and is perfect for beginners.

Ingredients

- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped

- 3 medium tomatoes, diced

- 1/4 cup fine bulgur wheat

- 1 small cucumber, diced (optional)

- 3 tablespoons lemon juice

- 3 tablespoons olive oil

- 2 green onions, chopped

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Soak the bulgur: Place the bulgur in a bowl and cover it with warm water. Let it sit for about 10–15 minutes until it becomes soft. After soaking, drain any excess water and gently squeeze the bulgur to remove moisture.

2. Prepare the vegetables: While the bulgur softens, chop the parsley and mint as finely as possible. This helps the herbs mix smoothly with the rest of the salad. Dice the tomatoes and cucumber, and chop the green onions.

3. Combine everything: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions. Stir well to mix all the ingredients evenly.

4. Season the salad: Pour in the lemon juice and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently but thoroughly to make sure all the flavors are well combined.

5. Rest before serving: Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors blend together and gives the salad a fresher taste.

Here are some helpful ideas to make your tabouli recipe even better and easier to prepare.

1. Chill the salad before serving – Cooling the salad helps the herbs and bulgur absorb the dressing better, creating a richer, fresher taste with a smoother blend of flavors.

2. Use firm tomatoes – Firmer tomatoes release less liquid, which keeps the salad from becoming watery and helps maintain a crisp, fresh texture in every bite.

3. Dry the parsley after washing – Removing moisture prevents water from diluting the dressing, helping the herbs stay crisp and ensuring the overall texture stays light and balanced.

4. Cut ingredients into small pieces – Finely chopping everything helps the flavors mix evenly, giving you a smoother texture and making each spoonful taste well-balanced and refreshing.

5. Adjust lemon juice gradually – Adding lemon juice slowly lets you control the flavor. This helps prevent the salad from becoming too sour while still keeping a bright, fresh taste.

6. Taste and adjust seasoning – After resting, the flavors may change slightly. Tasting before serving helps you add small adjustments to keep the balance just right.

This tabouli recipe pairs well with many foods. Here are 10 ideas you can enjoy with it.

1. Grilled chicken – The fresh and tangy taste of tabouli balances perfectly with smoky grilled chicken.

2. Hummus and pita – A classic combination that creates a complete Middle Eastern meal.

3. Falafel – Crispy falafel and fresh tabouli make a delicious and satisfying vegetarian plate.

4. Roasted vegetables – Serve with eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers for a healthy and colorful meal.

5. Baked fish – Light fish dishes match well with the bright flavors of tabouli.

6. Shawarma wraps – Add tabouli inside the wrap for extra freshness and crunch.

7. Grilled lamb – The herbs in tabouli help balance the rich taste of lamb.

8. Stuffed grape leaves – These share similar ingredients and work nicely together.

9. Quinoa bowls – Add tabouli on top for extra taste and texture.

10. Feta cheese platter – The salty flavor of feta pairs beautifully with the citrusy salad.

You can enjoy this tabouli recipe in many different styles. Here are some simple variations to explore.

1. Quinoa tabouli – Replace bulgur with cooked quinoa for a gluten-free version that has a slightly nutty flavor and a softer texture while still keeping the dish light and refreshing.

2. Cauliflower tabouli – Use finely chopped cauliflower instead of grains to create a low-carb tabouli with a mild taste and a crunchy texture that absorbs the lemon dressing well.

3. Avocado tabouli – Add diced avocado for a creamy twist that balances the bright herbs and lemon, giving the salad a richer and smoother overall texture.

4. Chickpea tabouli – Mix in cooked chickpeas to make the salad more filling, adding soft texture and extra protein without changing the fresh, herb-filled flavor.

5. Spicy tabouli – Add chili flakes or chopped fresh chili to give the dish a gentle heat that blends well with the lemon and herbs without overpowering the natural flavors.

6. Pomegranate tabouli – Add pomegranate seeds for sweetness and crunch, bringing bright color and a juicy burst that contrasts nicely with the fresh herbs.

7. Garlic tabouli – Mix in a small amount of minced garlic to create a stronger flavor that adds depth and warmth while still keeping the salad fresh and easy to enjoy.