Parsley salad

Fresh parsley salad with tomatoes and garlic

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2

In a world full of flavors and colors, the parsley salad with tomatoes and garlic shines like a seasonal gem. This simple and refreshing recipe is not just a healthy option but also a wonderful choice to bring a touch of freshness to your meals. Originating from the culinary traditions of rich cultures, parsley salad is a dish that combines simplicity with refinement, making it perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.

Let’s embark together on the preparation of this delicious salad!

Necessary ingredients:
- 6 bunches of fresh parsley
- 3 large, ripe tomatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons of wheat (preferably bulgur wheat)
- 3-4 cloves of garlic (not bulbs, but cloves)
- 3 teaspoons of white wine vinegar
- 3 teaspoons of corn germ oil (or olive oil for a richer flavor)
- Ground black pepper, to taste

Key points about the ingredients:
- Parsley: It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, having antioxidant properties. Choose fresh parsley with green, crisp leaves.
- Tomatoes: Opt for ripe, seasonal tomatoes to achieve a flavorful salad.
- Wheat: If using bulgur wheat, it will add a pleasant texture to the salad. You can also use other types of wheat, but make sure they are cooked properly.
- Garlic: Besides its characteristic aroma, garlic has antibacterial properties and can boost the immune system.
- Olive oil: An excellent choice to enhance the salad's flavor.

Preparation instructions:

1. Cooking the wheat: Start by rinsing the wheat well under cold running water. Then, boil it in a pot with plenty of water. Let it cook for about 30 minutes or until it becomes soft yet firm. Once done, drain it well and spread it on a paper towel to dry.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Meanwhile, finely chop the parsley leaves, making sure to reserve a few leaves for garnish. Dice the tomatoes, then use a spoon to scoop out the pulp and seeds to avoid excess water in the salad. Finely chop or mash the garlic using a vegetable mixer to create a flavorful paste.

3. Combining the ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chopped parsley, diced tomatoes, cooked wheat, and garlic. Mix well to combine the flavors.

4. Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine the white wine vinegar, corn germ oil (or olive oil), and ground black pepper. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix again to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.

5. Serving: For an attractive presentation, place the salad on green lettuce leaves and garnish with a few halved cherry tomatoes and whole parsley leaves. The salad is served immediately to benefit from the freshness of the ingredients.

Serving suggestions:
This parsley salad pairs perfectly with crispy falafel or other vegetable dishes. It can be enjoyed alongside warm pita bread or as a side dish with grilled fish. Try serving it with a glass of fresh lemonade or iced mint tea for a truly memorable culinary experience.

Possible variations:
- You can add black or green olives, which will bring a salty note and interesting texture.
- An interesting variant would be to include diced avocado, adding a creaminess.
- If you like a spicy taste, add a bit of finely chopped chili pepper.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being low in calories. A serving of salad contains about 150 calories, making it ideal for a healthy diet. Parsley and tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, helping to improve skin health and the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of greens? Of course! You can replace parsley with cilantro or a mix of greens, depending on your tastes.
- How can I keep the salad fresh? If you have leftover salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. It is recommended not to add the dressing until serving to maintain the texture of the ingredients.

This parsley salad with tomatoes and garlic is not just a simple recipe but also a story of flavors and aromas that can transform an ordinary meal into a true celebration of freshness. So, allow yourself to explore, create, and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!