Freekeh salad with yogurt dressing is a great alternative to rice or quinoa in salads, and I’ve been experimenting with different flavor combinations.
To make this salad, you’ll need freekeh, vegetable broth, pistachios, raisins, fresh mint and parsley, and black pepper. You’ll need Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt for the dressing. It’s a simple yet flavorful combination that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
What Is Freekeh?
Freekeh is a grain that has been around for centuries, but it’s only recently gained popularity in the Western world. It’s a type of wheat that’s harvested when it’s still young and green, then roasted and cracked. The result is a nutty, smoky flavor with a chewy texture.
Freekeh is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It’s perfect for salads, soups, and stews, and it pairs well with a variety of flavors. I’ve used it in everything from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to Asian stir-fries.
Ingredients:
Salad:
- 1 cup of freekeh
- 2 ½ cups of vegetable broth
- ¼ cup of shelled and chopped pistachios
- ¼ cup of raisins
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped mint
- 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley
- ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
Dressing:
- ½ cup of plain Greek yogurt or dairy-free alternative (120 g)
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice (5 mL)
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
How to Make Freekeh Salad with Yogurt Dressing?
- Start by combining freekeh and broth in a medium-sized saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for ten minutes, or until the freekeh attains a tender texture. Allow to stand covered for five minutes before draining any excess liquid. Fluff the freekeh gently with a fork.
- Meanwhile, whisk together all dressing components. A harmonious blend of yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and salt is recommended.
- Combine the cooked freekeh with diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and freshly chopped parsley and mint. Incorporate the prepared dressing.
- The salad may be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It is versatile and suitable for meal preparation or as an accompaniment to summer barbecue fare.
Nutritional Information (1 serving)
Serving: 1serving
Calories: 229kcal
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 4.3g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 3mg
Sodium: 632mg
Potassium: 252mg
Fiber: 4.9g
Sugar: 10.5g
Calcium: 59mg
Iron: 2mg
Serving Suggestions
I love serving this freekeh salad with yogurt dressing as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also a great option for a light lunch or dinner when paired with some crusty bread.
If you’re looking for a heartier meal, you can add some roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets to the salad. This will give it a nice texture and a pop of color. You can add some grilled halloumi cheese or tofu for a vegetarian option.
For a fun twist, you can serve the salad in lettuce cups or wrap it in a tortilla for a delicious and healthy wrap. You can also top the salad with some chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios for some extra crunch.
If you’re hosting a party or a potluck, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. You can make a big batch and serve it in a large bowl or platter. You can also set out some extra yogurt dressing on the side for people to drizzle over their salad.
Storing Leftovers
When I make a batch of this freekeh salad, I often end up with leftovers. This salad is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
To ensure that your salad stays fresh, it’s important to store it properly. I recommend storing the salad and the dressing separately in dedicated containers. This will prevent the salad from getting soggy and the dressing from making the salad too wet.
If you’re planning to eat the salad within a day or two, you can store both the salad and dressing in the same container. Just be sure to mix the dressing in right before serving to avoid any sogginess.
When it’s time to eat the leftovers, give the salad a good stir and add a little extra dressing if needed. You can also add some fresh herbs or chopped vegetables to give the salad a little extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the freekeh: Freekeh is a grain that can be easily overcooked, resulting in a mushy texture. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package and keep an eye on the freekeh while it’s cooking. It should be tender but still have a slight chewiness to it.
- Using too much dressing: While the yogurt dressing is delicious, it’s important not to drown the salad in it. Use just enough to lightly coat the ingredients, otherwise the salad can become heavy and overpowering.
- Not letting the salad sit: This salad is best when it has had a chance to sit for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the dressing to fully coat the ingredients. Don’t skip this step!
- Skipping the fresh herbs: The fresh herbs in this salad make a difference in terms of flavor and texture. Don’t skip them, even if you’re not a big fan of herbs. They add a brightness and freshness that elevates the dish.
- Using the wrong kind of yogurt: Make sure to use plain Greek yogurt for the dressing. Regular yogurt is too thin and will result in a runny dressing. Also, be sure to use a brand that you like the taste of since the flavor of the yogurt will come through in the dressing.
Conclusion
I am excited to share this delicious and healthy freekeh salad with a yogurt dressing recipe with you. By using freekeh as the base, we can create a nutrient-packed salad that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
The combination of fresh vegetables and herbs with the creamy tanginess of the yogurt dressing makes for a perfect summer dish. Plus, the addition of protein-rich chickpeas and crunchy almonds gives this salad an extra boost of nutrition.
I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables or herbs to make it your own. And remember, eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or tasteless. With recipes like this freekeh salad with yogurt dressing, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious meals every day.
I mentioned above, that this freekeh salad is great with grilled fish. So why not try this samak mashwi grilled fish?
Get its recipe now (by clicking the image below):
