It’s such a healthy, easy, and versatile dish that pairs perfectly with all things Mediterranean and Middle Eastern. Without further ado, my take on tabbouleh salad!
Origins of Tabbouleh
It’s thought that tabbouleh originated in the mountains of Lebanon and Syria as far back as the Middle Ages. This parsley-based dish is popular throughout many regions of the Middle East and is called kisir in Turkish and eetch in Armenian. The most common version of the recipe is made with parsley, tomatoes, mint, onions, bulgur wheat, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and sometimes pomegranate or sour grape juice. Our inspired, grain-free version is not traditional but is similarly bursting with parsley!
How to Make Grain-Free Tabbouleh
This recipe is so easy, requiring just 6 ingredients, 10 minutes, and 1 bowl to make. The base is fresh, chopped parsley, red bell pepper, and red onion. I love eating parsley because it’s so healthy for you (hello, antioxidants) and great at detoxifying the body (especially when you throw in lemon!). I used to add grains to my salad, but it honestly takes too much time and I don’t feel that it was adding much in the way of texture or flavor. But feel free to add cooked, cooled quinoa, bulgur, or couscous! Traditional tabbouleh calls for tomato. But, after realizing all I had was red bell pepper one night and using it in its place, I haven’t gone back. It adds even more crunch (plus beta carotene!) and a bit of sweetness, which I love. And I love that this is another no-mix dressing (i.e. dump the dressing over the salad sans mixing). Keep it easy, folks. I hope you all LOVE this salad! It’s: FreshCrunchyCitrusyMega healthyDeliciousVersatile& Easy to make This salad makes a delicious side to dishes like my Mediterranean Baked Sweet Potatoes, Chickpea Shawarma Sandwiches, and even Curry Lentil Soup! It also makes a great base for Crispy Baked Chickpeas, Lentil Dip, and Falafel! If you try this recipe, let us know! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram. Cheers, friends!
