Zesty Salad

Zesty Salad Recipe from Lebanon with Bulgar, Parsley, Mint, and More

Region / culture: Lebanon | Preparation time: 2 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Zesty Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. This salad is packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing that will tantalize your taste buds.

History

Zesty Salad is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a staple in many Mediterranean countries and is often served as part of a mezze platter. The combination of fresh herbs, vegetables, and tangy lemon dressing makes this salad a favorite among food lovers around the world.

Ingredients

0.25 cup cooked and drained garbanzo beans
4 cup boiling water
1.25 cup raw bulgur wheat
0.5 cup fresh parsley
0.75 cup minced fresh mint
0.75 cup scallions
3 medium tomatoes, chopped
0.5 cup lemon juice
0.25 cup olive oil
1-2 tsp salt
lettuce
raw grapes
cabbage leaves
taco shells (optional)

How to prepare

Prepare 0.25 cup of cooked and drained garbanzo beans (0.75 cup).
Pour 4 cups of boiling water over 1.25 cups of raw bulgur wheat. Let it stand covered for about 2 hours until it becomes light and fluffy. To remove excess water, strain and squeeze with hands.
Combine the cooked beans, parsley, mint, scallions, chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
Chill the mixture for at least 1 hour.
Serve on raw grape, lettuce, cabbage leaves, or tacos.

Variations

Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Top the salad with feta cheese or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Substitute quinoa or couscous for the bulgur wheat for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook and drain the garbanzo beans properly to ensure they are tender and not mushy.

- Soaking the bulgur wheat in boiling water helps to soften it and make it fluffy.

- Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Serve the salad on a bed of lettuce or cabbage leaves for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Zesty Salad on a bed of lettuce or cabbage leaves, or in taco shells for a fun twist. Pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the garbanzo beans until tender.

- Soak the bulgur wheat in boiling water to soften it.

- Mix the salad ingredients together and chill before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canned garbanzo beans instead of cooking them from scratch.

- Substitute parsley with cilantro or dill for a different flavor profile.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a tangy twist.

Make Ahead Tips

Zesty Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to chill it before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Zesty Salad on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also serve it in individual bowls or on a bed of lettuce for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Zesty Salad with grilled chicken, lamb, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. It also pairs well with hummus, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean feast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Zesty Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 8g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This salad is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Zesty Salad is a nutritious dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a healthy and delicious option for a light meal or side dish.

Summary

Zesty Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. Packed with fresh herbs, vegetables, and a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining brightly, and I had just finished tending to my garden. As I was cleaning up, I noticed a piece of paper fluttering in the breeze. Curious, I walked over and picked it up.

To my surprise, it was a handwritten recipe for Zesty Salad. The paper was slightly yellowed and worn, indicating that it had been passed down through generations. I couldn't believe my luck - I had always wanted to learn how to make a delicious, zesty salad, and here was the perfect opportunity.

I carefully tucked the recipe into my apron pocket and made my way into the kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. Who had written it down? Who had shared it with them? The mystery only added to my excitement as I set to work.

The recipe called for a variety of fresh vegetables - tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. I chopped them all up with care, marveling at the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas. Next, I whisked together a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, red wine vinegar, garlic, and a touch of honey.

As I tossed the vegetables with the dressing, I couldn't resist taking a small taste. The flavors exploded in my mouth - tangy, sweet, and just a hint of heat from the garlic. It was absolutely perfect. I knew right then and there that this Zesty Salad would become a staple in my kitchen.

I served the salad that evening to my family, and it was a hit. My husband raved about how fresh and flavorful it was, and my children couldn't get enough. They begged me to make it again soon, and I happily obliged.

Over the years, I have made this Zesty Salad countless times, each batch just as delicious as the last. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it on to the next generation just as it was passed on to me. It has become a beloved tradition in our household, a symbol of love, memories, and good food.

I often think back to that fateful day when I found the recipe, and I am grateful for the serendipitous moment that led me to it. It has brought so much joy and flavor into my life, and I will always cherish the memories of preparing it in my kitchen.

As I write this, I can't help but smile at the thought of future generations enjoying this Zesty Salad. I hope that they, too, will feel the same connection to it that I do, and that it will bring them as much happiness as it has brought me.

So here it is, my beloved Zesty Salad recipe, passed down through the years and now shared with you. May it bring you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought me. Enjoy!