Ingredients:
- 1 cup Finest Food bulgur wheat
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
- 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Bulgur Wheat:
- Place the bulgur wheat in a large bowl.
- Pour 2 cups of boiling water over the bulgur, cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap, and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the bulgur is tender. Fluff it with a fork.
-
Chop the Vegetables:
- While the bulgur is soaking, dice the cucumber, tomato, and red bell pepper. Finely chop the red onion and fresh herbs.
-
Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to taste.
-
Combine the Salad:
- In the bowl with the soaked and fluffed bulgur wheat, add the chopped vegetables, parsley, and mint. If using, add the feta cheese and olives.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
-
Refrigerate and Serve:
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, adjusting seasoning if necessary right before serving.
This Bulgur Wheat Salad is not only tasty but also highly nutritious, providing a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. The addition of feta cheese and Kalamata olives can offer a Mediterranean twist, making it even more flavorful. Enjoy your wholesome meal!