Tabbouleh - Cracked wheat salad (vegan)

Tabbouleh - Cracked Wheat Salad (Vegan)

Tabbouleh is a vibrant and fresh salad, exuding Mediterranean flavors, which has gained popularity worldwide due to its delicious taste and nutritional benefits. Originating from the Levant regions, this salad is a symbol of hospitality and festive meals, often served on platters that invite socializing and enjoying moments with loved ones. Although each area has its own variations, the key ingredient that makes Tabbouleh a special dish is parsley, which adds a note of freshness and a vibrant accent.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 cup of bulgur (very finely cracked wheat)
- Juice of 2 medium lemons
- 2 bunches of fresh parsley (approximately 6 bunches from markets in Romania)
- 2 tablespoons of fresh mint leaves
- 2 medium cucumbers
- 1 small tomato
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt

Preparing Tabbouleh is a simple yet satisfying process. Here are the steps you need to follow to create a salad that will impress even the most discerning gourmets.

Step 1: Prepare the bulgur
Start by placing the bulgur in a bowl and adding hot water over it, enough to cover it. Let it steep for about 10 minutes until the grains become soft. It is important to choose quality bulgur as this will influence the final texture and taste of the salad. Once cooled, rinse it well under cold running water to remove excess starch and drain well.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables
Meanwhile, chop the tomato, cucumbers, and mint leaves. It is essential to use a small tomato, as too much tomato can make the salad watery. If desired, you can opt for cherry tomatoes, which add a touch of sweetness. The vegetables should be chopped very finely, which will help blend the flavors.

Step 3: Mix the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the drained bulgur. Sprinkle with salt and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the bulgur absorbs the flavors. Then, add the tomato, cucumbers, and mint leaves, gently mixing to avoid breaking the texture of the ingredients.

Step 4: Parsley, the star of the dish
Chop the parsley leaves finely and gradually add them to the bowl. It is important not to use the stems, only the leaves, to avoid a bitter taste. Gently mix so that each ingredient is well distributed.

Step 5: Decoration and serving
For an appealing look, arrange the salad on a platter, garnishing with green lettuce leaves, cucumber slices, and lemon. This adds a pleasant visual contrast and makes the salad even more attractive.

Useful tips:
- If you desire a spicier salad, you can add some chopped chili pepper.
- Tabbouleh is ideal to be served as an appetizer, but also as a side dish to meat or fish dishes.
- It can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavors of the ingredients.

Nutritional benefits:
Tabbouleh is a salad rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Parsley is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and iron, while bulgur provides complex carbohydrates that maintain long-term energy. Olive oil brings healthy fats, and lemon contributes antioxidants.

Delicious combinations:
Tabbouleh pairs perfectly with a serving of hummus, fresh pita, or even grilled dishes. For an even more intense flavor, you can accompany it with a dry white wine, which will highlight the salad's flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of grain instead of bulgur?
Yes, you can use quinoa or couscous, but the taste and texture will be different.
- Is Tabbouleh a vegan salad?
Yes, all ingredients are plant-based, making Tabbouleh an excellent choice for vegans.
- What other ingredients can I add?
You can add black or green olives for a more intense flavor, or even cooked chickpeas for an extra protein boost.

In conclusion, Tabbouleh is a delicious, healthy, and very easy-to-make salad that can bring a touch of freshness to any meal. Try it today and enjoy the Mediterranean flavors! Bon appétit!