Authentic Lebanese Tabbouleh (Fresh Parsley, Mint & Lemon Salad)
The pride of Lebanese mezze: a vibrant, herbaceous salad where finely chopped flat-leaf parsley and fresh mint take center stage, accented with ripe tomatoes, scallions, fine bulgur, cold-pressed olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice.
Ingredients
Fresh Herb & Vegetable Base
- 4 large bunches fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley (thoroughly washed, dried, and stems removed)
- 1 large bunch fresh mint leaves (finely chopped)
- 4 medium firm ripe tomatoes, finely diced
- 4 green spring onions (scallions), finely sliced
- 3 tbsp fine #1 bulgur wheat (washed and soaked in tomato juices)
Authentic Lebanese Dressing
- 1/3 cup high-grade Lebanese extra virgin olive oil
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approx. 2-3 juicy lemons)
- 1/2 tsp ground Lebanese 7-spice (or pinch of allspice)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt & 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Serving
- Crisp romaine lettuce hearts or tender cabbage leaves for scooping
- Fresh lemon wedges
Instructions
Wash & Dry Herbs Thoroughly
Wash the parsley and mint multiple times. Ensure they are completely 100% dry using a salad spinner and clean towels. Wet herbs will turn soggy and bruise when chopped.
Finely Chop the Parsley & Mint
Using a very sharp chef's knife, bunch the parsley tightly and slice it thinly in single clean passes without bruising. Finely chop the mint leaves.
Soak the Bulgur in Tomato Juices
Dice the tomatoes finely over a bowl to catch all the natural juices. Add the dry fine bulgur directly to the tomatoes, letting it soften and absorb the sweet tomato essence for 15 minutes.
Whisk the Citrus Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, 7-spice, sea salt, and black pepper.
Toss Gently & Serve with Romaine
In a large serving bowl, combine chopped parsley, mint, scallions, and the soaked tomato-bulgur mixture. Pour dressing over just before serving, toss gently, and serve with crisp romaine leaves as edible spoons.
Nutrition Facts
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet.