Tabbouleh

Couscous and Parsley Tabouleh Recipe

Tabouleh is a delicious and colorful appetizer that combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the light texture of couscous. Over time, this dish has become a symbol of a healthy and balanced meal, bringing not only taste but also nutritional benefits. A star ingredient in this recipe is parsley, known for its antibacterial properties and ability to support the body in the fight against cancer cells. Here’s how to prepare this refreshing and flavorful appetizer!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 100 g couscous
- 3 large ripe tomatoes
- 1 large bunch of fresh parsley (you can use even more if you are a fan)
- Fresh juice from 1 lemon
- 4-5 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the couscous: Start by placing the couscous in a large bowl. Add hot water (about 1.2 times the amount of couscous) and let it sit for 10 minutes. The couscous will absorb the water and become fluffy. If you want, you can add a pinch of salt to the water for more flavor.

2. Chopping the tomatoes: When the couscous is ready, wash the tomatoes well and chop them into small cubes. We recommend choosing ripe and aromatic tomatoes to add sweetness and freshness to the dish.

3. Preparing the parsley: Wash the parsley under a stream of cold water and let it drain. Then, chop it finely with a knife, avoiding the use of a blender, as it can destroy the texture of the leaves and the fresh aroma.

4. Mixing the ingredients: In the bowl with couscous, add the chopped tomatoes, chopped parsley, salt, and olive oil. Squeeze the lemon juice and add it to the mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix all the ingredients well, ensuring that each piece of couscous is coated with oil and lemon juice.

5. Resting the dish: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the couscous to absorb the flavors and become softer.

6. Serving: After chilling, mix the tabouleh again to aerate it. You can serve it on a beautiful platter, decorated with fresh parsley leaves or lemon slices. It’s a perfect appetizer to be enjoyed with warm pita or as a side dish for meat dishes.

Practical tips:

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh, seasonal ingredients for maximum flavor. The tomatoes should be ripe and aromatic, and the parsley should be fresh and green.
- Quinoa option: If you want a more nutritious alternative, you can replace couscous with quinoa. This will add extra protein and fiber.
- Delicious additions: You can customize the tabouleh by adding black or green olives, diced cucumbers, or even feta for a creamy touch.

Nutritional benefits:

- Parsley: It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Tomatoes: They contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.
- Olive oil: It is an excellent source of healthy fats that help maintain cardiovascular health.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole grain couscous? Yes, whole grain couscous is an excellent option, providing more fiber and nutrients.
2. How can I make this dish spicier? Add a bit of freshly chopped chili pepper or chili flakes to the mixture.
3. Can it be prepared in advance? Yes, tabouleh keeps well in the refrigerator and the flavor gets even better after a few hours!

Ideal combinations:

Tabouleh pairs wonderfully with:

- Warm pita or flatbreads
- Chicken or lamb kebabs
- Fresh green salads
- Refreshing drinks, such as lemonade or mint tea

Whether you choose to serve it as an appetizer at a festive meal or as a side dish for a relaxed dinner, this couscous and parsley tabouleh will bring a touch of freshness and flavor. Enjoy it with pleasure and don’t forget to savor every bite!