Tabbouleh with couscous is a twist on traditional tabbouleh that combines the classic flavors of parsley, mint, and tomatoes with light and fluffy couscous, creating a perfect side dish or light meal. You can whip up a bowl of this refreshing salad with just a few ingredients—couscous, fresh parsley, fresh mint, a large diced tomato, olive oil, lemon juice, and a dash of salt and pepper.
History and Origin of Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh has its roots in the Levant region, particularly in countries like Lebanon and Syria. Originally, it featured bulgur as the primary grain.
This dish dates back centuries. In ancient times, people prepared tabbouleh with a variety of herbs and vegetables. Parsley often took center stage, complemented by mint and tomatoes.
Over the years, tabbouleh evolved. Many versions now use couscous instead of bulgur. This change reflects culinary adaptations across different cultures.
The name “tabbouleh” comes from the Arabic word taabil, meaning “to season”. This indicates its focus on fresh herbs and lively flavors.
Today, tabbouleh has gained popularity around the world. It symbolizes Middle Eastern cuisine, celebrated for its vibrant taste and healthy ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of couscous
- 1 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh mint
- 1 large diced tomato
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 tbsp of fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to make tabbouleh with couscous?
- Begin by cooking the couscous according to package directions.
- Once cooked, fluff it with a fork to maintain its light and airy texture.
- Subsequently, incorporate vibrant chopped parsley, refreshing fresh mint, and juicy diced tomatoes.
- To enhance the flavors, generously drizzle with fragrant olive oil and squeeze on tangy lemon juice.
- Finally, season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Gently stir until all ingredients are combined.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation Tips
For a visually appealing look, I recommend using a large serving bowl. This allows the vibrant colors to shine.
Garnishing with fresh herbs like mint or parsley adds a pop of green. I often sprinkle some extra diced tomatoes on top for a splash of color.
Serving it in individual bowls can also create an inviting table setting. For an elegant touch, place a lemon wedge on the side for a fresh squeeze just before eating.
Using a mix of textures helps, too. layer in toasted pine nuts or slivers of almonds for crunch.
Accompaniments
I like pairing tabbouleh with grilled meats or fish. The fresh herbs in the tabbouleh balance well with smoky flavors.
A platter of hummus and pita chips can serve as great starters. The creamy texture of hummus complements the freshness of the tabbouleh.
For a lighter option, serve with yogurt-based dips. They provide a cooling contrast and enhance the flavors.
I recommend a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This refreshes the palate and enhances the overall meal experience.
Storing and Shelf Life
Storing tabbouleh is straightforward. After preparing it, keep it in an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness.
For best results, store it in the refrigerator. It usually lasts about 3 to 4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. Here’s how to do it:
- Portion: Divide the tabbouleh into smaller servings.
- Label: Write the date on the container.
- Freeze: Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
Here’s a quick tip: If you add dressing, it’s best to do that fresh when serving. This way, the tabbouleh remains crunchy and vibrant.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 115 |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 17.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g |
| Sugars | 0.2 g |
| Fat | 3.7 g |
| Vitamins | A, C |
Conclusion:
Tabbouleh with couscous offers a delightful twist on the traditional recipe. I like its light texture and vibrant flavors making it a perfect side dish or a refreshing main course.
Using couscous instead of bulgur adds a unique element. It’s easy to prepare, and I appreciate how quickly it cooks, making meal prep a breeze.
Whether I serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a weekday lunch, I find tabbouleh with couscous brings a burst of flavor that I can never resist.
As you’ve read above, hummus with pita is a great pairing for tabbouleh.
Get this easy hummus recipe now (by clicking the image below):
