Tabbouleh easy Mediterranean style

November 30, 2025

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tabbouleh

Tabbouleh recipe full of fresh parsley, mint, and bulgur. Light, healthy, and satisfying for everyday meals or special moments.

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Total Time 31

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 210

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

0.75 cup fine bulgur wheat
1 cup boiling water
2 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
0.5 cup fresh mint leaves finely chopped
2 unit medium tomatoes diced
0.5 unit cucumber diced
2 unit green onions finely sliced
0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
0.25 cup fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon sea salt
0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Method

Place the bulgur wheat in a medium bowl and pour boiling water over it. Cover and let it soak for about 20 minutes until all water is absorbed and bulgur is tender.
Meanwhile, finely chop the parsley and mint. Dice the tomatoes and cucumber, and finely slice the green onions.
Once the bulgur is ready, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains and let it cool to room temperature.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the bulgur wheat, chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, cucumber, and green onions.
Add the olive oil, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and coated.
Adjust seasoning to taste. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor, or serve immediately for a fresher result.

Notes

Tabbouleh is not just a salad—it's a refreshing Middle Eastern classic loved for its vibrant flavor and versatility. Whether served as a light main course on a hot day, a crisp starter for dinner parties, or part of a mezze spread, this dish invites creativity and brings bright, fresh flavors to any table.

Practical Tips for Perfect Tabbouleh

Choose fresh herbs: For the best flavor and color, use only fresh parsley and mint. Avoid pre-chopped or wilted herbs—they won’t give you the signature punch this salad is known for.
Soak bulgur properly: Make sure the bulgur soaks completely and is fluffy, not mushy. If there’s any excess water after soaking, drain it well so your tabbouleh doesn’t turn soggy.
Chop ingredients finely: Take your time to finely chop herbs and vegetables. The smaller the pieces, the more harmonious and enjoyable each bite will be.
Fresh lemon juice and good olive oil truly elevate the dish. If possible, squeeze lemons right before use and pick the highest-quality olive oil available.

Ingredient Swaps & Flavor Boosters

No bulgur? Try quinoa or couscous for a gluten-free or creative twist—they provide a similar texture and soak up flavor well.
Add crunch: A handful of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can introduce a satisfying crunch and nuttiness.
Enhance acidity: A splash of pomegranate molasses or extra lemon can add zest for those who enjoy a tangy profile.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve tabbouleh as a side to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even with falafel and hummus for a true Middle Eastern experience. This salad is also a great addition to picnic spreads or lunchboxes, as it holds up well when made ahead—just keep it chilled until serving.

Try it rolled into lettuce leaves, spooned over pita bread, or alongside stuffed grape leaves for visual appeal and textural contrast. Your creativity is the only limit!

Tagged:healthy mediterranean diet recipe

Mileni Sabatini

Milena is a passionate home cook who finds joy in turning simple ingredients into wholesome Mediterranean-inspired meals. Writing on the blog lets her share not just recipes, but her love for balance and everyday wellness.

Tabbouleh easy Mediterranean style