Tabbouleh

Tabbouleh: A Salad Full of Freshness and Flavor

Tabbouleh is a salad that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors in a savory way, being a popular dish on tables around the world. This recipe is not only healthy but also colorful, offering an explosion of tastes that will make you want to try it again and again. Its origins are lost in time, but it remains a symbol of Mediterranean cuisine, recognized for its contribution of vitamins and minerals.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Essential ingredients:
- ½ cup of couscous
- 3-4 bunches of fresh parsley
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 medium onion (preferably white or red)
- 3-4 mint leaves
- 4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the couscous: Start by boiling water. The amount of water needed is about one cup. Once the water has started to boil, pour the couscous into a bowl and add the hot water on top. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it soak for about 10 minutes. The couscous will absorb the water and become fluffy in texture.

2. Chopping the vegetables: While the couscous is soaking, you can start preparing the vegetables. Wash the tomatoes well, then cut them in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon. This will prevent excess moisture in the salad. Cut the tomatoes into small cubes. Then, finely chop the parsley and mint. Make sure to use fresh leaves, as they provide the best flavor.

3. Preparing the onion: The onion should be finely chopped to integrate well into the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can soak the onion in cold water for a few minutes before adding it to reduce its intensity.

4. Preparing the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to emulsify the dressing. This combination will add a fresh taste and a note of acidity to your salad.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Once the couscous has fluffed up, use a fork to fluff it. Then, add all the chopped ingredients to the bowl with couscous: parsley, mint, tomatoes, onion, and dressing. Gently mix everything, ensuring that each ingredient is well coated in the dressing.

6. Serving: Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes before serving, so the flavors meld beautifully. Tabbouleh is usually served as an appetizer but is also an excellent accompaniment to various main dishes, such as grilled chicken or fish. You can also serve it alongside fresh pita bread or as part of a Mediterranean platter.

Helpful tips:

- Fresh ingredients are key: Make sure to use fresh, quality vegetables. The taste of the salad largely depends on the flavors of the ingredients.
- Customize the recipe: If you want to add a unique touch, you can include black or green olives, or even a splash of pomegranate for extra color and sweetness.
- This dish is perfect for summer meals: Tabbouleh is an excellent choice for picnics or outdoor meals due to its freshness.

Nutritional benefits:
Tabbouleh is rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamins A and C), and antioxidants, with a low-calorie content, making it a very healthy choice. A serving of tabbouleh contains about 150 calories, depending on the amount of olive oil used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of grain?
Yes, you can experiment with quinoa or bulgur if you want a gluten-free option or a different texture.

2. How can I store Tabbouleh salad?
Tabbouleh is best consumed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It is recommended not to add the dressing before consuming to prevent the ingredients from becoming soggy.

3. What can I pair Tabbouleh with?
This salad pairs perfectly with grilled dishes such as kebabs, marinated chicken, or grilled fish. It can also be served alongside hummus, baba ghanoush, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.

Enjoy your meal! Whether you savor it at a meal with friends or as a healthy dish during the week, tabbouleh will bring a touch of freshness and joy to every bite!