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.
Jump to RecipeIna 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
- 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.
- Fluff and drain: Fluff the soaked bulgur with a fork. Drain any excess water if needed.
- Prep the vegetables and herbs: Finely chop the tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the bulgur with the chopped vegetables and herbs.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- 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.

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 Fennel Orange Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Quinoa Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Orzo Salad With Feta Recipe
Ina Garten Tabbouleh Salad Recipe
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes180
kcalA 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.
