Latvian Tabouly Salad Recipe with Wheat, Parsley, Onion, Tomatoes, Mint, and Lemon Juice

Tabouly Salad

Latvian Tabouly Salad Recipe with Wheat, Parsley, Onion, Tomatoes, Mint, and Lemon Juice
Region / culture: Latvia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Tabouly Salad
Tabouly Salad

Tabouly Salad is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor. This salad is made with a base of wheat, parsley, onions, and tomatoes, and is seasoned with mint, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and oil. It is a perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion.

History

Tabouly Salad has been a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Lebanon, where it is a popular dish served at family gatherings, celebrations, and festivals. The salad is known for its fresh and vibrant flavors, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Rinse and drain the wheat. Add all the ingredients and mix well. Let it set for 1 hour before serving. The salad can be kept in the refrigerator for several days.

Variations

  • Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness.
  • Substitute quinoa or bulgur for the wheat for a different texture and flavor.
  • Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as cilantro or dill for added depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to finely chop the parsley, onions, and tomatoes to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the salad.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and oil to suit your personal taste preferences. Some people prefer a more tangy salad, while others prefer a more subtle flavor.

- Let the salad sit for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and develop.

Serving Suggestions

Tabouly Salad can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, kebabs, or falafel. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy meal. Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to rinse and drain the wheat thoroughly before adding it to the salad to remove any excess starch.

- Use a sharp knife to finely chop the parsley, onions, and tomatoes to ensure even distribution of flavors.

- Mix the salad gently to avoid crushing the vegetables and herbs.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a slightly different citrus flavor.

- Substitute olive oil for the oil for a richer taste.

- Use red onions instead of white onions for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tabouly Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop and meld together, making the salad even more delicious. Just be sure to mix the salad well before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Tabouly Salad in a large bowl or platter garnished with fresh parsley or mint leaves for a pop of color. You can also sprinkle some sumac or za'atar on top for added flavor and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Tabouly Salad pairs well with grilled meats, kebabs, falafel, hummus, and pita bread. It also goes well with other Middle Eastern dishes such as baba ganoush, fattoush salad, and stuffed grape leaves.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tabouly Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tabouly Salad contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a light and nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight or enjoy a flavorful dish without excess calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tabouly Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The wheat and vegetables in the salad provide a good source of complex carbohydrates, which are essential for energy production and overall health.

Fats

Each serving of Tabouly Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats. The oil used in the salad provides healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are important for heart health and overall well-being.

Proteins

Each serving of Tabouly Salad contains approximately 5 grams of proteins. While the salad is not a significant source of protein, the wheat and vegetables do provide some essential amino acids that are necessary for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Tabouly Salad is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, potassium, and manganese. These nutrients are important for immune function, bone health, and overall vitality.

Alergens

Tabouly Salad is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten. However, individuals with allergies to wheat or other ingredients in the salad should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before consuming.

Summary

Tabouly Salad is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. It is a great option for those looking to enjoy a light and refreshing meal that is full of flavor and texture.

Summary

Tabouly Salad is a classic Middle Eastern dish that is easy to make, nutritious, and bursting with fresh flavors. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the vibrant colors and textures of this delicious salad at your next gathering or meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Tabouly Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I had just arrived at my friend Fatima's house for a gathering. As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma coming from the kitchen. Fatima was standing at the stove, stirring a pot of simmering soup, while her mother was busy chopping vegetables at the counter.

I asked Fatima what she was making, and she told me it was a traditional Lebanese dish called Tabouly Salad. I had never heard of it before, but as soon as she described it to me, I knew I had to learn how to make it.

Fatima's mother, Mrs. Khalil, noticed my interest and invited me to join her in the kitchen. She explained that Tabouly Salad was a simple yet delicious dish made with bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and a tangy dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil.

As Mrs. Khalil guided me through the steps of making the salad, I was struck by her knowledge and expertise in the kitchen. She had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had passed it down through generations. I could tell that this dish held a special place in their family's culinary tradition.

After we finished making the Tabouly Salad, Mrs. Khalil invited me to sit down at the table and taste the final product. The flavors were incredible – fresh and bright, with a perfect balance of tanginess and crunch. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Tabouly Salad countless times for my family and friends. I have experimented with different variations, adding my own twist to the traditional recipe. Sometimes I'll add diced avocado or feta cheese for extra creaminess, or swap out the parsley for fresh mint for a refreshing twist.

I have also shared the recipe with anyone who asks, passing on the tradition of this delicious dish to the next generation. I love teaching others how to make Tabouly Salad and watching their faces light up as they take their first bite.

One of my favorite memories involving this recipe was when I made it for a potluck at my church. I had prepared a huge bowl of Tabouly Salad, garnished with pomegranate seeds for a festive touch. When it was time to serve the dishes, I proudly presented my creation to the group.

To my delight, the Tabouly Salad was a huge hit. People couldn't get enough of it, going back for seconds and even asking for the recipe. I was thrilled to see how much joy and satisfaction a simple dish could bring to others.

As I sit here reflecting on my journey with Tabouly Salad, I am filled with gratitude for the friends and family who have shared their recipes and culinary wisdom with me. Each dish I have learned to make holds a special place in my heart, connecting me to the past and bringing me closer to the people I love.

I am proud to carry on the tradition of making Tabouly Salad, knowing that with each batch I prepare, I am keeping alive a piece of my heritage. And as I continue to pass on this recipe to others, I hope that they too will experience the joy and connection that comes from sharing a delicious meal made with love and tradition.

Categories

| Latvian Recipes | Latvian Salads | Mint Recipes | Wheat Recipes |

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