The Best Homemade Tabouli Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade tabouli is fresh, simple, and bursting with flavor—perfect for a quick meal or a side dish at your next gathering. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, with just a few fresh ingredients that come together in minutes. The zesty lemon and herbs create a bright, invigorating taste that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s so versatile, pairing well with grilled chicken, stuffed in pita bread, or enjoyed on its own. And the best part? It’s healthy and satisfying, making it a guilt-free option you’ll want to make again and again.
Recipe
Tabouli is a revitalizing Middle Eastern salad made with bulgur wheat, fresh herbs, and vegetables. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a healthy side dish or a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fine bulgur wheat
- 1 ½ cups boiling water
- 2 cups finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh mint
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Place bulgur in a large bowl and pour boiling water over it. Cover and let sit for 20–30 minutes until tender. Drain any excess water.
- Fluff the bulgur with a fork and let it cool.
- Add chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions to the bulgur.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
- For best results, use fresh herbs and finely chop them.
- Adjust lemon juice and salt to taste.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork
- Knife and cutting board
- Small mixing bowl
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 0 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes (including resting time)
Cuisine:
Middle Eastern
Serving:
4–6 servings
Nutrition
This homemade tabouli recipe is not only fresh and flavorful but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180 | 4g | 25g | 7g | 3g | 250mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade tabouli with warm, fluffy pita bread—it’s perfect for scooping up every last bite. Grilled chicken skewers add a smoky flavor that complements the fresh herbs and lemony kick of the salad. Together, they make a balanced, satisfying meal that’s easy to put together.
Fresh Pita Bread
When I think of fresh pita bread, my mind immediately jumps to how versatile it is—perfect for dipping, wrapping, or just tearing into warm, fluffy pieces. There’s nothing like scooping up tabouli with it, letting the flavors mingle in every bite. I love how it softens slightly when warm but still holds its shape, making it ideal for stuffing with greens and herbs. Sometimes, I’ll toast it lightly for extra crunch. Whether you’re serving it alongside tabouli or enjoying it solo, fresh pita elevates the meal. It’s a simple touch that feels special every time.
Grilled Chicken Skewers
Grilled chicken skewers shine brightest when paired with sides that balance their smoky, juicy flavor. I love serving them with homemade tabouli, its zesty lemon and fresh herbs cutting through the richness. A side of warm pita bread adds softness, perfect for scooping up bites. Roasted veggies, like zucchini or bell peppers, add a sweet, caramelized touch. For a creamy contrast, I whip up a quick garlic yogurt sauce. Sometimes, I’ll even toss a simple green salad with olive oil and lemon. These combos make the skewers feel like a complete meal, satisfying every craving without overwhelming the palate.
