Name: Lebanese Tabbouleh
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Lebanese
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley (about 2 large bunches); 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves; 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced; 1/4 cup fine bulgur wheat; 3 green onions, finely sliced; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe

refreshing and vibrant Middle Eastern salad, Lebanese tabbouleh is a beloved dish made primarily with fresh parsley, mint, bulgur wheat, and finely chopped vegetables. Known for its bright flavors and healthy profile, it is often enjoyed as part of a mezze spread or served alongside grilled meats. This version stays true to traditional Lebanese preparation, highlighting fresh herbs and lemon for a zesty finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lebanese tabbouleh is a celebration of fresh herbs and crisp vegetables, making it a light yet satisfying dish. Its lemon-forward dressing gives a refreshing tang, while the bulgur adds texture and mild nuttiness. This recipe is also highly versatile, pairs well with many dishes, and is naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly. It’s perfect for warm weather gatherings, healthy lunches, or as a colorful side to any Mediterranean meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh parsley
Fresh mint leaves
Fine bulgur wheat
Ripe tomatoes
Green onions
Extra virgin olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Salt

directions

Rinse the bulgur wheat in cold water, then soak it in warm water for about 15 minutes until tender. Drain well.
Wash and dry the parsley and mint thoroughly. Remove thick stems and finely chop the leaves.
Dice the tomatoes into very small pieces to avoid excess juice in the salad.
Finely slice the green onions.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the parsley, mint, tomatoes, green onions, and bulgur wheat.
Drizzle with olive oil and fresh lemon juice, then season with salt to taste.
Toss gently until all ingredients are well combined.
Allow the salad to rest for 15 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Substitute quinoa for bulgur wheat for a gluten-free option.
Add finely chopped cucumber for extra crunch.
Incorporate pomegranate seeds for a sweet-tart twist.
Use red onions instead of green onions for a sharper flavor.
Adjust the ratio of lemon juice and olive oil to suit your taste preference.

storage/reheating

Store tabbouleh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Since it contains fresh herbs and vegetables, it is best consumed fresh to preserve flavor and texture. Tabbouleh is not suitable for reheating, but you can refresh it by adding a little extra lemon juice and olive oil before serving.

FAQs

How fine should I chop the parsley for tabbouleh?

The parsley should be chopped very finely to create the traditional texture and evenly distribute flavor.

Can I prepare tabbouleh in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours ahead, but add the lemon juice and olive oil just before serving to maintain freshness.

What type of bulgur is best for Lebanese tabbouleh?

Fine bulgur is preferred, as it softens quickly without cooking and blends well with the other ingredients.

Is tabbouleh gluten-free?

Traditional tabbouleh contains bulgur wheat, which is not gluten-free. You can substitute quinoa for a gluten-free version.

Can I skip the mint?

Yes, but mint adds a distinct freshness that complements the parsley, so it is highly recommended.

Why is my tabbouleh watery?

Excess liquid often comes from overly juicy tomatoes or insufficiently drained bulgur. Use firm tomatoes and drain ingredients well.

What can I serve with tabbouleh?

It pairs well with grilled meats, falafel, hummus, pita bread, and other Mediterranean dishes.

Can I freeze tabbouleh?

Freezing is not recommended, as fresh herbs and vegetables lose their texture when thawed.

How can I make tabbouleh more lemony?

Simply increase the amount of lemon juice in the dressing, adjusting to your taste.

Is olive oil essential for tabbouleh?

Olive oil is traditional and enhances flavor, but you can reduce or omit it if you prefer a lighter salad.

Conclusion

Lebanese tabbouleh is a timeless, herb-forward salad that delivers a burst of freshness in every bite. Its balance of parsley, mint, bulgur, and zesty dressing makes it both nourishing and delicious. Whether enjoyed as part of a mezze platter or alongside your favorite main course, this dish is a versatile and healthy addition to your table