Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs is a bright, refreshing Middle Eastern–inspired salad that celebrates fresh parsley, mint, juicy tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. This herb-forward dish is crisp, zesty, and incredibly satisfying while still feeling light and wholesome, making it perfect for warm weather meals, healthy lunches, or as part of a mezze spread.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs
This recipe is quick to prepare, naturally vegetarian, and made with simple, affordable ingredients you can find in most grocery stores. The fresh herbs provide a clean, vibrant flavor, while the lemon and olive oil keep everything light and refreshing instead of heavy. It’s also versatile enough to serve as a side dish, a light main, or a topping for grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables. Best of all, this salad tastes even better after it rests, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.
Ingredients for Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs
Salad Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (about 2 packed cups before chopping)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
- 1 cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you need a gluten-free option, replace the bulgur wheat with cooked quinoa or finely riced cauliflower. For a lower-carb version, you can simply omit the grain and increase the parsley slightly. If mint is not available, you may reduce the amount or leave it out, but it does add a traditional freshness. Always use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for the best flavor. This recipe contains no alcohol or pork and is naturally family-friendly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Bulgur
Place the fine bulgur wheat in a small bowl and cover it with hot water. Let it soak for about 10 minutes until tender, then drain very well and gently squeeze out any excess liquid.
Step 2 – Chop the Vegetables and Herbs
Finely chop the parsley and mint so the leaves are small and uniform. Dice the tomatoes and slice the green onions thinly. Proper chopping is key to authentic tabbouleh, as the salad should be light and evenly textured.
Step 3 – Combine the Salad
Add the drained bulgur, chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and green onions to a large mixing bowl. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Step 4 – Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, allspice, and cinnamon until fully blended.
Step 5 – Toss and Rest
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is well coated. Let the salad rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
Always dry the parsley thoroughly after washing to avoid a watery salad. Use fine bulgur, not coarse, for the correct texture. Chop ingredients finely and evenly for the best mouthfeel. Add the dressing gradually if you prefer a lighter coating. Letting the salad rest briefly improves the overall flavor. Taste again just before serving and refresh with extra lemon if needed.
Flavor Variations
Add finely diced cucumber for extra crunch and freshness. Include a pinch of ground cumin for a warmer spice note. Mix in cooked quinoa for added protein and heartiness. Add diced avocado just before serving for a creamy twist. Sprinkle with toasted sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this tabbouleh salad as a side dish with grilled chicken, baked fish, or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with hummus, pita bread, and other Mediterranean-style dishes. You can also spoon it into lettuce cups for a light appetizer or enjoy it on its own as a refreshing lunch.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover tabbouleh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving and refresh with a little lemon juice if needed. Freezing is not recommended, as the fresh herbs and vegetables will lose their texture.
Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs is a bright, refreshing Middle Eastern–inspired salad made with fresh parsley, mint, juicy tomatoes, and a light lemon dressing. Crisp, zesty, and wholesome, this herb-forward dish is perfect for warm weather meals, healthy lunches, or mezze spreads.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint
- 1 cup diced tomatoes, seeds removed
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon allspice
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Place the fine bulgur wheat in a small bowl and cover with hot water. Let soak for 10 minutes, then drain well and squeeze out excess liquid.
- Finely chop the parsley and mint, dice the tomatoes, and thinly slice the green onions.
- Add the drained bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and green onions to a large bowl and toss gently.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, allspice, and cinnamon.
- Pour the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and let rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
Dry the parsley thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Use fine bulgur for the best texture. Letting the salad rest improves flavor before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 220mg |
FAQ About Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs
What makes tabbouleh different from other salads?
Tabbouleh is primarily herb-based, with parsley as the main ingredient rather than lettuce or grains. This gives it a lighter, fresher flavor and a unique texture compared to most salads.
Can I make tabbouleh ahead of time?
Yes, tabbouleh can be made a few hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, allowing it to rest helps the flavors blend together more fully.
Is tabbouleh healthy?
Tabbouleh is rich in fresh herbs, vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil. It is naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it a nutritious choice.
How do I keep tabbouleh from becoming watery?
Make sure the parsley is completely dry after washing, drain the bulgur thoroughly, and remove tomato seeds before chopping. These steps help maintain the proper texture.
Can I eat tabbouleh as a main dish?
Yes, you can enjoy it as a light main course or bulk it up with added protein such as chickpeas, grilled chicken, or quinoa.
Final Thoughts
Easy Tabbouleh Salad Recipe With Fresh Herbs is a timeless, refreshing dish that proves simple ingredients can deliver incredible flavor. With fresh herbs, bright lemon, and a light dressing, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for quick meals, gatherings, and healthy eating.