Lemon and Fresh Herb Tabbouleh
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This vibrant lemon and fresh herb tabbouleh is a celebration of zingy Mediterranean flavours. Unlike grain-heavy versions, this authentic-style vegan salad puts the herbs centre stage, using an abundance of flat-leaf parsley, mint, and dill for a burst of garden-fresh fragrance. The bulgur wheat provides a satisfying chew, while the sharp lemon juice and sweet tomatoes create a beautifully balanced side dish that feels both nutritious and indulgent.
Perfect as part of a summer mezze spread or as a healthy lunchbox staple, this salad actually improves with time as the grains soak up the citrus dressing. It is a fantastic plant-based option for outdoor dining, pairing wonderfully with grilled vegetables, falafel, or warm pitta bread. Simply prepare it a few hours in advance to let the aromatic herbs truly shine.
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Ingredients for Lemon and Fresh Herb Tabbouleh
120ml medium- or fine-grain bulgur
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley (about 3 bunches)
120g diced red onion
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/3 cup finely chopped fresh mint
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh basil
45ml finely chopped fresh dill
45ml finely chopped fresh coriander
1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
How to make Lemon and Fresh Herb Tabbouleh
Bring a kettle of water to a boil. Stir together the bulgur and 1 tablespoon of the oil in a heatproof bowl. Add boiling water to cover. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and let stand for 15 minutes. Drain in a sieve, pressing on the bulgur to remove any excess liquid.
Transfer the bulgur to a large bowl and toss with the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and the rest of the ingredients until everything is well mixed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Serve cold.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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