Rice Tabbouleh

Introduction

History

Tabbouleh is a traditional Middle Eastern salad that is typically made with bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. The addition of rice to this classic dish adds a new dimension of texture and flavor.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely before adding it to the salad.

- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor. Italian flat-leaf parsley and mint are traditional choices for tabbouleh.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste. You can add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Rice Tabbouleh can be served as a side dish with grilled meats or fish, or as a light and refreshing main course. It pairs well with hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a great Rice Tabbouleh is to chop all the ingredients finely and mix them well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can customize this recipe by adding or omitting ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, vegetables, or grains.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice Tabbouleh can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rice Tabbouleh in a large bowl or on a platter garnished with extra parsley and mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice Tabbouleh pairs well with grilled meats, fish, or kebabs. It also goes well with other Middle Eastern dishes like falafel or baba ganoush.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Rice Tabbouleh is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice Tabbouleh contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice Tabbouleh is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

Rice Tabbouleh is gluten-free and dairy-free. However, it does contain nuts (if using) and may be prepared in a facility that processes other allergens.

Summary

Rice Tabbouleh is a nutritious and balanced dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice Tabbouleh is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal. With its fresh flavors and vibrant colors, it is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Rice Tabbouleh. It was many years ago, during one of my trips to the Middle East. I had always been fascinated by the flavors and spices of that region, and I loved to explore the local markets and try new dishes.

One day, while wandering through a bustling market in Lebanon, I came across a small food stall run by an elderly woman. The aroma of fresh herbs and spices wafted through the air, and I knew I had to try whatever she was cooking. As I approached the stall, I saw her stirring a large pot of steaming rice mixed with colorful vegetables and herbs. When I asked her what she was making, she simply smiled and told me it was Rice Tabbouleh.

I had never heard of Rice Tabbouleh before, but as soon as I took my first bite, I was hooked. The combination of fluffy rice, tangy lemon juice, crisp vegetables, and fragrant herbs was unlike anything I had ever tasted. I begged the woman for the recipe, and after some convincing, she agreed to share it with me.

As she dictated the ingredients and instructions to me, I scribbled furiously in my notebook, eager to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen. The key, she explained, was to use the freshest ingredients possible and to let the flavors marinate together for at least an hour before serving.

Back home, I wasted no time in gathering all the necessary ingredients and getting to work. I cooked the rice until it was perfectly tender, then mixed it with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, mint, and green onions. A generous squeeze of lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper brought everything together beautifully.

As the Rice Tabbouleh sat in the refrigerator, the flavors melded together, creating a dish that was both refreshing and satisfying. When I finally served it to my family, they couldn't get enough. The dish disappeared within minutes, and I knew I had stumbled upon a new family favorite.

Over the years, I have made Rice Tabbouleh countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add a handful of toasted pine nuts for extra crunch, or a dollop of creamy yogurt for richness. No matter how I choose to make it, the dish always brings back fond memories of that busy market stall in Lebanon.

I often think about that kind woman who shared her recipe with me, and I am grateful for the culinary adventure that led me to discover Rice Tabbouleh. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I am proud to share with friends and loved ones.

In the end, it is not just about the ingredients or the flavors, but about the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with those you care about. And for that, I will always be grateful to that humble food stall in Lebanon and the woman who opened my eyes to the wonders of Rice Tabbouleh.

Categories

| Cucumber Recipes | Lebanese Recipes | Mint Recipes | Rice Recipes | Salad Recipes |

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