A refreshing balance of bright herbs, juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumber, and a hint of citrus, this Fresh Tabbouleh Salad is the perfect way to bring Mediterranean charm to your table. Made with finely chopped parsley, bulgur, and a drizzle of olive oil, this timeless dish is both vibrant and nourishing. Serve it as a side, a light meal, or as part of a mezze spread for an effortlessly elegant touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & Flavorful – Crisp parsley, cucumber, ripe tomatoes, and a zesty lemon dressing create a light yet satisfying dish.
Healthy & Nourishing – Packed with vitamins, fiber, and wholesome ingredients.
Versatile & Elegant – Perfect as a refreshing salad, a side dish, or a mezze platter addition.
Authentic Mediterranean Taste – A traditional combination of simple yet bold flavors.
Total Time & Servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for bulgur)
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- ½ cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1 cup boiling water
- 2 cups fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh mint, finely chopped
- 3 ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- ½ cucumber, diced
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bulgur
Place the bulgur in a bowl and pour the boiling water over it. Cover and let it sit for 10 minutes until the grains absorb the water and soften. Fluff with a fork and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Chop the Herbs & Vegetables
Finely chop the parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions. The finer the chop, the better the texture of the salad.
Step 3: Combine & Dress
In a large bowl, combine the cooled bulgur with the chopped herbs and vegetables. Drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using). Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy
Let the flavors meld for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy as a standalone dish, a side, or a topping for grilled meats.
Expert Tips for the Best Tabbouleh
Use Fresh Ingredients – High-quality, fresh parsley and mint make all the difference.
Finely Chop Everything – The key to a perfect tabbouleh is uniform, finely chopped ingredients.
Adjust to Taste – Add more lemon juice for brightness or extra olive oil for a richer texture.
Pair It With
Grilled Chicken or Lamb – A perfect complement to the bright and herbaceous flavors.
Hummus & Pita Bread – Serve alongside classic dips for an authentic mezze experience.
Falafel – These crispy, savory bites pair wonderfully with the fresh herbs and tangy dressing.
Storing & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Best Served Fresh: While it can be enjoyed later, the herbs may lose some vibrancy over time.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Tabbouleh Salad is the ultimate way to enjoy fresh, wholesome flavors with a Mediterranean twist. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a light, nutritious meal, this timeless dish brings brightness and sophistication to every bite. Serve it fresh, savor the flavors, and let it transport you to sun-kissed shores with every spoonful.
