Name: Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil; 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 garlic clove (grated); ½ teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon ground coriander; Pinch cinnamon; 3 cups finely chopped curly parsley (about 2 bunches); 1 cup diced English cucumber; 1 cup cored and diced tomato; ⅔ cup cooked bulgur wheat; ⅓ cup finely chopped fresh mint; 2 scallions (chopped)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

If you are yearning for a salad that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and packs a nutritious punch, then you must try this Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe. It is a delightful blend of zesty lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and wholesome bulgur that comes together in perfect harmony, making it a star dish for warm days or anytime you crave something light yet satisfying. The combination of crunchy cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and the earthy touch of bulgur creates a mouthwatering texture, while the fresh parsley and mint bring an unmistakable brightness that will have you coming back for seconds. This salad is truly a celebration of wholesome ingredients working hand in hand to nourish both your taste buds and your body.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface with a large pile of chopped green parsley in the center, next to a large knife with a wooden handle. Around the board, there are fresh green onions on the top left, a whole red tomato on the bottom left, and bunches of fresh mint and parsley leaves below the board. Near the top right, two glass bowls hold diced green cucumber and cooked beige grains, beside a whole yellow lemon and a bulb of garlic with cloves. There is also a small glass bowl with white salt, brown and red spices, and a clear bottle with yellow olive oil on the left side. Everything is brightly colored and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in delivering the signature taste and texture. With just a handful of fresh produce, herbs, and pantry staples, you can create a dish that feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to prepare.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Use high-quality olive oil for a smooth, fruity base that enhances all the flavors.
Fresh lemon juice: The key to that irresistible citrusy zing which ties the salad together beautifully.
Garlic clove (grated): Adds a subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the freshness.
Sea salt: Elevates every ingredient and balances the bright acidity.
Ground coriander: Brings a gentle, nutty spice to make the salad more complex.
Pinch of cinnamon: A surprising twist that adds warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.
Curly parsley (finely chopped): The star herb that gives the salad its vibrant green color and fresh taste.
English cucumber (diced): Adds a crisp, watery crunch, keeping the salad light and refreshing.
Tomato (cored and diced): Contributes juicy sweetness and a pop of color on your plate.
Cooked bulgur wheat: The wholesome grain that provides satisfying texture and makes the salad more filling.
Fresh mint (finely chopped): Offers a cooling contrast that elevates the flavor profile wonderfully.
Scallions (chopped): Bring mild oniony notes and a hint of sharpness, perfect for balance.

How to Make Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe

Step 1: Whisk the Dressing

Begin by combining the extra-virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, grated garlic, sea salt, ground coriander, and a pinch of cinnamon in a large bowl. Whisk these together thoroughly so that the flavors meld into a vibrant and aromatic dressing that will coat the salad beautifully. This dressing is the heart of your tabbouleh, providing the luscious tang and spice that complement the fresh ingredients perfectly.

Step 2: Add the Fresh Ingredients

Next, toss in your finely chopped curly parsley, diced English cucumber, and diced tomatoes. Each addition brings its own texture and flavor, from the herbaceous green freshness of the parsley to the crisp bite of cucumber and sweet juiciness of the tomatoes. These ingredients work hand-in-hand to build the classic tabbouleh texture—light, chewy, and refreshing all at once.

Step 3: Incorporate Bulgur and Mint

Now it’s time to fold in the cooked bulgur wheat and finely chopped fresh mint. The bulgur adds a satisfying chewiness and wholesome earthiness that turns this salad from a simple herb mix into a nourishing meal. Meanwhile, mint infuses a cool brightness that contrasts deliciously with the lemony dressing.

Step 4: Add Scallions and Toss

Finally, sprinkle in the chopped scallions and give everything a gentle toss until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding extra salt or lemon juice to make the dish perfectly balanced. Cover the bowl and chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors intensify and blend.

How to Serve Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe

A white speckled bowl is filled with a colorful tabbouleh salad made of finely chopped bright green parsley, small pieces of light green cucumber, light brown bulgur, and red tomato chunks. The salad looks fresh and mixed evenly, with the colors spread throughout. A shiny metal spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side, partially buried in the salad. The bowl sits on a white cloth with blue stripes and has a white marbled surface underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve your tabbouleh with extra fresh herbs on top for a burst of green that’s as inviting as it is delicious. A few lemon wedges on the side invite guests to add a fresh squeeze for a little extra zing. Toasted pine nuts or a scattering of sumac make stunning garnishes that add subtle crunch and a pop of color.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as part of a Mediterranean-inspired spread. Pair it with grilled meats like chicken kebabs or lamb chops for a satisfying combo. It’s also fantastic alongside creamy hummus, warm pita bread, or crispy falafel, offering a refreshing contrast to richer, heartier dishes.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the tabbouleh in hollowed tomato or cucumber cups — they look charming and make the salad easy to serve at parties. Alternatively, pile the salad onto a bed of mixed greens or stuff it into pita pouches for a portable, vibrant lunch option. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because of the fresh herbs and lemon juice, tabbouleh tends to taste even better after a few hours as the flavors continue to meld, but it’s best enjoyed within a day or two for the freshest experience.

Freezing

Freezing tabbouleh is generally not recommended due to the fresh herbs and vegetables, which can become watery and lose their texture once thawed. For best results, prepare just the amount you plan to eat within a couple of days or keep the dressing and bulkier ingredients separate if you want to prep ahead.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated. Enjoy it straight from the fridge, allowing the refreshing flavors of this Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe to remain crisp and bright every time.

FAQs

Can I use quinoa instead of bulgur wheat in this recipe?

Absolutely! Quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative to bulgur wheat, with a similar texture that works well in tabbouleh. Just cook and cool it before mixing with the other ingredients.

What if I don’t have fresh mint on hand?

While fresh mint adds a lovely refreshing note, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of fresh basil for a different but delicious twist.

How do I make the bulgur wheat for this salad?

Simply soak bulgur in boiling water for about 15 minutes until tender, then drain any excess water before adding it to the salad. It’s quick and easy, and no cooking is involved.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this salad stores well and can be prepped in advance. Just keep it chilled and stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen up the texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this tabbouleh?

Feel free to customize with finely chopped bell peppers, radishes, or even finely grated carrots to add different flavors and colors while keeping the salad’s refreshing essence.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about this Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe. It’s a dish that invites conversation, complements countless meals, and brings a vibrant splash of freshness to your table. Whether you’re new to tabbouleh or a longtime fan, this recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the brightest, freshest flavors in every bite. Trust me, once you make it, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to salads that’s perfect for any occasion.

Refreshing Tabbouleh Salad with Lemon, Parsley, and Bulgur Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need