Imagine a dish that transports you to sun-drenched Mediterranean landscapes with just one bite - our Toasted Bulgur Salad with Corn and Tomatoes is exactly that culinary adventure! This vibrant, nutrition-packed recipe transforms humble ingredients into a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish that steals the spotlight, this Middle Eastern-inspired salad promises to elevate your cooking game and surprise your guests with its incredible depth of flavor.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place a medium saucepan over medium-high heat and add the bulgur wheat. Toast the bulgur, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour 2 cups of water into the toasted bulgur, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the bulgur is tender and has absorbed all the water.
- Remove the bulgur from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the grains with a fork and transfer to a large mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- While the bulgur is cooling, prepare the corn and tomatoes. If using fresh corn, briefly sauté the kernels in a pan until lightly charred. If using frozen corn, thaw and pat dry.
- Add the corn kernels, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped fresh parsley to the bulgur.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the bulgur mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Let the salad sit for 10 minutes at room temperature to allow flavors to meld before serving.
- Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled as a refreshing side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Toast your bulgur carefully: The key to incredible flavor is toasting the bulgur wheat until it's fragrant but not burnt. Watch it closely and stir frequently.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes and good olive oil can make a massive difference in the final taste.
- Let the salad rest: Allowing the salad to sit for 10 minutes helps the flavors meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Customize your herbs: While parsley is traditional, feel free to experiment with mint or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
- Temperature matters: This salad is delicious served at room temperature or slightly chilled, making it perfect for meal prep and picnics.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 209kcal
Carbohydrates: 21g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
