As the sun starts to linger a little longer in the sky and the vibrant colors of summer begin to bloom, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dish to lift your spirits. I found myself craving something light yet packed with flavor, and that’s when this Spanish-Style Tabbouleh came to life in my kitchen. Imagine the freshness of parsley and cilantro mingling with juicy tomatoes, all brightened up by a zesty lemon dressing—it’s like a celebration of the Mediterranean on your plate!
I was inspired to put a twist on the classic tabbouleh by adding quinoa for that nutty depth and a hearty crunch of roasted peanuts. Not only is this salad quick to whip up, but it also makes for the perfect side for your summer barbecues or a delightful lunch option during busy weekdays. So, if you’re tired of the usual fast-food fare and are ready to embrace wholesome, homemade goodness, come along and let’s create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why will you love this Spanish-Style Tabbouleh?
Freshness at its finest: Every bite bursts with the bright flavors of parsley, cilantro, and lemon juice.
Nutty goodness: Quinoa adds a delightful crunch that elevates this dish from a simple salad to a satisfying meal.
Versatile meal option: Perfect as a side or a light main, this salad is adaptable for any occasion.
Quick prep: With minimal cooking involved, you’ll spend more time enjoying it and less time in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Serve this at potlucks or barbecues, and watch your guests rave about its vibrant flavors!
Spanish-Style Tabbouleh Ingredients
For the Salad
• 1 cup pre-cooked quinoa – This nutty base makes a perfect pairing with the fresh herbs in a Spanish-Style Tabbouleh.
• 1 cup parsley – Fresh parsley brings a burst of color and vibrant flavor to this dish.
• 2 cups cilantro, chopped – Adds a bright, herbal note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• 15 mint leaves, chopped – Mint contributes a refreshing coolness that lightens every bite.
• 4 green onions, chopped – These provide a subtle sharpness and texture to the salad.
• 2 small tomatoes, diced – Juicy tomatoes add sweetness and moisture to harmonize the flavors.
For the Dressing
• 1 cup lemon juice – This tangy dressing wakes up the flavors of the salad while providing a zesty kick.
• 4 tsp extra virgin olive oil – Olive oil enriches the dish and balances the acidity of the lemon juice.
For the Toppings
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts – Adding a delightful crunch, they make this salad even more satisfying!
• 1 head iceberg lettuce – Use this as a crispy bed to serve your vibrant Spanish-Style Tabbouleh on.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing the flavors of the entire dish.
How to Make Spanish-Style Tabbouleh
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Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked quinoa, parsley, cilantro, mint leaves, green onions, and diced tomatoes. Mix gently until all the ingredients are well distributed and invitingly colorful. -
Whisk Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil until emulsified. The dressing should feel light and bright, perfect for enhancing the salad’s freshness. -
Dress the Salad
Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine. Ensure each component is well-coated, bringing that zesty kick of flavor into every bite. -
Add Crunch
Gently fold in the roasted peanuts, adding that nutty goodness that cranks up the texture and satisfaction levels in your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh. -
Serve it Up
Serve your salad on a bed of crispy iceberg lettuce. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also makes for an impressive presentation!
Optional: Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cilantro for added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Spanish-Style Tabbouleh Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these exciting twists to elevate your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute quinoa with millet or rice for a gluten-free alternative that keeps it hearty and filling.
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Herb Swap: Experiment with fresh dill or basil instead of parsley or cilantro to bring a unique flavor profile to your salad.
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Add Protein: Toss in some chickpeas or grilled chicken for a protein boost, making this a wholesome, complete meal.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a fiery taste that will awaken your senses.
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Nutty Twist: Switch the roasted peanuts for sunflower seeds or sliced almonds to add delightful crunch and a different nutty flavor.
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Sweet Touch: Incorporate diced avocado or small pieces of mango to introduce a creamy sweetness that balances the tanginess of the dressing.
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Zesty Infusion: Add a splash of orange juice to the dressing for an extra fruity zing that complements the lemon beautifully.
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Veggie Medley: Include diced cucumbers or bell peppers to the salad for added color and texture, enhancing the refreshing quality of the dish.
Let your tastebuds lead the way in crafting a personalized version of this delightful salad!
How to Store and Freeze Spanish-Style Tabbouleh
Fridge: Store your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the freshness of the herbs intact.
Freezer: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze the quinoa base separately for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing the dressing and fresh veggies.
Reheating: If you do freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy it cold or gently reheat in a pan. Fresh toppings should be added just before serving for that perfect crunch.
Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, it can sit out for up to 2 hours. Just remember, this salad is best enjoyed fresh!
Expert Tips for Spanish-Style Tabbouleh
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Use Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh parsley and cilantro; they bring vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs, enhancing your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh immensely.
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Perfect Your Quinoa: Rinse quinoa before cooking to remove bitterness. Ensure it’s fluffy; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which defeats the salad’s freshness.
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Balance Your Dressing: Adjust lemon juice and olive oil to your taste. Too much acidity can overwhelm; start with half the amount and increase gradually for the best flavor.
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Add Crunch Wisely: To maintain texture, add roasted peanuts just before serving. This prevents them from getting soggy and preserves that satisfying crunch.
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Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This lets flavors meld beautifully, making every bite even more delicious.
What to Serve with Spanish-Style Tabbouleh?
Transform your dining experience with delightful pairings that bring out the best in every bite of this vibrant salad.
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Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken adds a savory depth that beautifully complements the fresh flavors of the tabbouleh.
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Hummus and Pita Chips: The creamy texture of hummus paired with crispy pita provides a delightful contrast that elevates the lightness of the salad.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies bring a sweet and savory warmth that balances the zesty notes of the tabbouleh perfectly. Their earthy flavors create a satisfying mix.
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Feta Cheese Crumbles: A sprinkle of salty feta introduces a creamy richness that enhances the freshness without overwhelming it, creating a wonderful harmony of flavors.
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Crispy Falafel: These crunchy, spiced balls not only add a plant-based protein punch but also a delightful texture contrast that complements the salad’s freshness.
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Sparkling Water with Mint: A refreshing drink, this lightly flavored beverage perfectly cleanses your palate while echoing the salad’s bright mint notes.
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Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty dessert that mirrors the zesty dressing in your tabbouleh, providing a refreshing end to a delightful meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Spanish-Style Tabbouleh are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the quinoa mixture (parsley, cilantro, mint leaves, green onions, and diced tomatoes) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the vibrant flavors, hold off on adding the peanuts and dressing until you’re ready to serve, as this will keep the texture delightful and prevent sogginess. When it’s time to enjoy, simply whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil, dress your salad, and toss in the roasted peanuts for that perfect crunch. Enjoy a refreshing, homemade meal with minimal effort!
Spanish-Style Tabbouleh Recipe FAQs
What type of quinoa should I use for this salad?
Absolutely! For this Spanish-Style Tabbouleh, I recommend using pre-cooked quinoa. It has a lovely nutty flavor and provides a hearty base. If you’re cooking it from scratch, rinse your dry quinoa well to remove any bitterness, then cook it according to package instructions, usually about 15 minutes.
How should I store leftover Spanish-Style Tabbouleh?
Store your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method helps to maintain the freshness of the herbs while still keeping the delightful flavors intact. If possible, it’s best to keep the dressing and peanuts separate until just before serving to preserve their texture.
Can I freeze Spanish-Style Tabbouleh?
Very! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the quinoa base separately for up to 2 months. Place the cooled quinoa in an airtight freezer-safe container. Just remember, do not freeze the dressing or fresh veggies, as they won’t retain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the quinoa in the refrigerator overnight and reassemble your salad with fresh ingredients and dressing.
What are some alternatives for those with nut allergies?
If you or your loved ones have nut allergies, fear not! You can easily replace the roasted peanuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for that satisfying crunch. Alternatively, try crunchy chickpeas for an added protein boost without compromising on texture.
How can I tell if my herbs are fresh enough?
Fresh herbs are key to elevating your salad! Look for bright green leaves that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots or wilting. The aroma should be strong and inviting. If the leaves are yellowing or turning brown, they may not provide the flavor you want in your Spanish-Style Tabbouleh. Make sure to give your herbs a gentle rinse and pat them dry before chopping for maximum freshness!
Delicious Spanish-Style Tabbouleh for a Fresh Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the pre-cooked quinoa, parsley, cilantro, mint leaves, green onions, and diced tomatoes. Mix gently until all ingredients are well distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil until emulsified.
- Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
- Gently fold in the roasted peanuts.
- Serve the salad on a bed of crispy iceberg lettuce.