Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

This Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad recipe is fresh and vibrant, which includes bulgur wheat and lots of parsley. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in just 15 minutes.

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Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Ingredients

  • 1 cup bulgur wheat
  • 1½ cups boiling water
  • 1 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • ½ cup finely chopped fresh mint
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup finely chopped cucumber
  • ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
  • ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

How To Make Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad

  1. Soak the bulgur: Place the bulgur in a bowl and pour in 1½ cups of boiling water. Let it sit for 30 minutes until softened.
  2. Fluff and drain: Fluff the soaked bulgur with a fork. Drain any excess water if needed.
  3. Prep the vegetables and herbs: Finely chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
  4. Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bulgur with the chopped vegetables and herbs.
  5. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Toss and chill: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Let sit for 15 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

Recipe Tips

  • Can I use quinoa instead of bulgur?
    Yes, cooked and cooled quinoa is a great gluten-free alternative.
  • How long can tabbouleh sit before serving?
    It’s best after sitting 15–30 minutes, and even better after a few hours in the fridge.
  • Can I add more vegetables?
    Sure! Chopped bell pepper or radish can add color and crunch.
  • How to keep herbs fresh:
    Use very sharp knives to avoid bruising the parsley and mint.
  • Should I peel the cucumber?
    If using English or Persian cucumbers, peeling isn’t necessary. For thick-skinned cucumbers, peel for a better texture.

What To Serve With Tabbouleh Salad

This light, refreshing salad goes well with:

  • Grilled chicken or lamb
  • Falafel or hummus
  • Pita bread or flatbread
  • Stuffed grape leaves
  • Roasted eggplant or baba ganoush

How To Store Tabbouleh Salad

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Flavors deepen over time.

Freeze (not recommended):
Freezing is not ideal for tabbouleh due to the fresh herbs and raw veggies.

Tabbouleh Salad Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving for 6 servings)

  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Vitamin C: 15mg
  • Iron: 1.5mg
  • Calcium: 40mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I make this a day ahead?
Yes, tabbouleh actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.

What type of parsley is best?
Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley is preferred for its flavor and texture.

Can I reduce the oil in the dressing?
Yes, reduce to 2 tablespoons if you prefer a lighter version.

How do I make this spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne or minced jalapeño for heat.

Try More Recipes:

Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

Recipe by SarahCourse: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories

180

kcal

A light and refreshing Middle Eastern-inspired salad made with bulgur, fresh herbs, and lemony olive oil dressing.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup bulgur wheat

  • 1½ cups boiling water

  • 1 cup chopped parsley

  • ½ cup chopped mint

  • 1 cup diced tomatoes

  • ½ cup diced cucumber

  • ¼ cup diced red onion

  • ¼ cup lemon juice

  • ¼ cup olive oil

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Directions

  • Soak bulgur in boiling water for 30 minutes. Fluff and drain.
  • Chop tomatoes, cucumber, onion, parsley, and mint.
  • Mix all salad ingredients in a large bowl.
  • Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Pour dressing over salad and toss. Chill before serving.

Sarra

I’m Sarra Jhonson, the cook behind Tasty Treats Daily. In my tiny apartment kitchen, I try all kinds of recipes—weeknight dinners, baked treats, and quick sides—then refine them until they’re reliable. I write clear, step-by-step instructions in plain language, and I share what worked, what didn’t, and the tips that make it easier at home.