Bulgur Salad

Bulgur salad is a delightful dish that perfectly captures the essence of Lebanese cuisine with its wholesome ingredients and vibrant flavors. This recipe is a refreshing twist on traditional salads, combining the nutty taste of bulgur with the freshness of herbs and vegetables. It’s light, yet satisfying, making it a wonderful addition to any meal or a perfect standalone dish for a quick and healthy lunch. Let’s dive into creating this delicious Lebanese-inspired Bulgur Salad!

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup bulgur
– 1 ½ cups water
– 1 cucumber, diced
– 1 tomato, diced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Bulgur:**
– In a saucepan, bring 1 ½ cups of water to a boil.
– Add the bulgur to the boiling water, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender.
– Once cooked, fluff the bulgur with a fork and let it cool to room temperature.

2. **Mix the Vegetables:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, tomato, and chopped red onion.
– Add the fresh parsley and mint to the bowl.

3. **Combine the Ingredients:**
– Once the bulgur has cooled, add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
– Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. **Toss and Chill:**
– Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined.
– Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– When ready to serve, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing.
– Garnish with additional parsley or mint if desired.
– Serve the Bulgur Salad as a side dish or a light meal on its own. Enjoy the refreshing flavors and textures!

Bulgur Salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Feel free to add in ingredients like diced bell peppers, olives, or feta cheese for extra flavor and texture. You can also drizzle some yogurt-based dressing on top for a creamy finish. This salad is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a healthy option for weekday lunches.

The beauty of Lebanese-inspired Bulgur Salad lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a delicious and nutritious dish. Whether you are looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet or simply want to explore the flavors of the Mediterranean, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite of this delightful Bulgur Salad!