Freekeh salad with tahini dressing is a Middle Eastern dish that combines nutty freekeh, a grain made from roasted green wheat, with a creamy tahini dressing that’s both savory and slightly sweet. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
To make this salad, you’ll need some key ingredients, including freekeh, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, tahini, honey, olive oil, pomegranate seeds, red onion, fresh mint, fresh parsley, crushed pistachios, salt, and black pepper. Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with some of these items – they’re all readily available at most grocery stores. Once you have everything you need, you can start preparing this delicious salad that will impress your dinner guests or make a great lunch for yourself.
What Is Freekeh?
Freekeh, a whole grain originating in the Middle East, is crafted from young, green wheat that undergoes a roasting and cracking process. This ancient grain has been a culinary cornerstone in the region for centuries.
The roasting process gives freekeh a unique smoky flavor and a chewy texture that works well in salads and other dishes. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins.
One of the great things about freekeh is its versatility. You can use it in all sorts of recipes, from salads to soups to pilafs. And because it’s a whole grain, it’s a healthier alternative to refined grains like white rice or pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of freekeh
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 3 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp of tahini
- 1 tsp of honey
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- ½ cup of pomegranate seeds
- ¼ cup of minced red onion
- 2 tbsp of minced fresh mint
- 2 tbsp of minced fresh parsley
- ½ cup of crushed pistachios
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Freekeh Salad with Tahini Dressing?
- Begin by toasting the freekeh in a medium-high heat saucepan until lightly browned and aromatic. This process typically takes approximately three minutes. Subsequently, introduce broth and bring it to a simmer. Once simmering, cover and cook until the liquid is absorbed, which generally requires twenty minutes. Allow to stand for five minutes before transferring to a bowl for cooling.
- While the freekeh cools, whisk vinegar, tahini, and honey in a small bowl, and gradually incorporate olive oil through whisking. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once the freekeh has reached room temperature, combine with pomegranate seeds, onion, mint, and parsley in a bowl. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and gently toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate for thirty minutes to allow flavors to meld. Garnish with pistachios immediately before serving to maintain their texture.
Nutritional Information
| Calories – 258 |
| Total Fat – 12g |
| Saturated Fat – 1g |
| Cholesterol – 2mg |
| Sodium – 464mg |
| Total Carbohydrate – 32g |
| Dietary Fiber – 6g |
| Total Sugars – 6g |
| Protein – 8g |
| Vitamin C – 4mg |
| Calcium – 28mg |
| Iron – 1mg |
| Potassium – 199mg |
Serving Suggestions
Plating Your Salad
There are a few things to keep in mind. First, mix the dressing well before drizzling it over the salad. This will ensure that each bite is evenly coated with the delicious tahini flavor. Next, consider adding some extra toppings such as chopped parsley or toasted nuts to give your salad an extra crunch and pop of color. Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation. Try serving the salad in a large bowl or on a platter, garnished with sprigs of fresh herbs or slices of lemon.
Pairing with Main Dishes
While this freekeh salad is delicious on its own, it also pairs well with various main dishes. For a light lunch, try serving it alongside a simple grilled chicken breast or fish fillet. For a heartier meal, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or a warm bowl of soup. The nutty flavor of the freekeh and the creamy tahini dressing complement a wide range of flavors, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect pairing.
Storing and Leftovers
It’s important to keep this salad in an airtight container in the fridge. This will help it stay fresh for up to three days. However, if you’re planning on storing it for longer than that, it’s best to keep the dressing separate from the salad and mix them just before serving.
Leftovers of this salad can make for a great lunch the next day. To ensure it stays fresh, I pack the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers and mix them just before eating. If the salad has dried out, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of lemon juice to freshen it up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the freekeh: Freekeh is a delicate grain that can easily become mushy if overcooked. Be sure to follow the cooking instructions carefully and keep an eye on the freekeh as it cooks. Once it’s done, drain any excess water and let it cool before adding it to the salad.
- Using too much tahini: While tahini is a delicious and nutritious ingredient, it can easily overpower the other flavors in the salad if too much is used. Start with a small amount and add more as needed, tasting as you go.
- Skimping on the vegetables: A freekeh salad can be a great way to get in your daily dose of veggies, but it’s important not to skimp on them. Be sure to include a variety of colorful vegetables to add flavor, texture, and nutrition to the salad.
- Forgetting the acid: To balance out the richness of the tahini dressing, it’s important to add a bit of acid to the salad. This can come in the form of lemon juice, vinegar, or even a squeeze of fresh orange juice. Don’t skip this step!
Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed reading about my freekeh salad with tahini dressing recipe! It’s a delicious and healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
I encourage you to try making this salad at home – it’s easy to prepare and the flavors are sure to impress your family and friends.
Remember to use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh vegetables and organic freekeh, to make the most of this dish. And don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and dressings to customize the recipe to your taste.
Overall, I believe that this freekeh salad with tahini dressing is a great addition to any meal. It’s packed with nutrients and flavor, and it’s sure to satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. So why not give it a try today?
As mentioned above, you can have this freekeh salad alongside kubba hamuth soup.
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