Description
For the Salad
1 cup bulgur wheat
2 cups water or vegetable broth
1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted almonds, sliced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
For the Lemon Vinaigrette
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
In a medium saucepan, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in bulgur wheat, cover, and remove from heat. Let sit for 15 minutes or until liquid is
absorbed. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur wheat, feta cheese, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, parsley, and red onion.
Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.
Serve immediately or chill for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Prep Time: 10 minutes, Cooking Time: 15 minutes, Total Time: 25 minutes, Kcal: 320 per serving, Servings: 4
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your bulgur wheat is fine or medium-grain for the best texture. Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant, watching carefully to prevent burning. For the red onion, soak the diced pieces in cold water for 10 minutes to mellow their sharpness, then drain and pat dry. When preparing the bulgur, after removing it from heat, let it sit covered for the full 15 minutes without peeking to ensure even steaming. Fluff it thoroughly with a fork and spread it on a baking sheet to cool quickly, preventing it from becoming gummy.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standalone vegetarian lunch or as a substantial side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or lamb. For a beautiful presentation, serve it on a bed of fresh spinach or arugula. It’s perfect for meal prep—store the dressing separately and combine just before eating. To make it a heartier meal, add chickpeas or shredded rotisserie chicken. It also travels well, making it an excellent choice for picnics, potlucks, and packed lunches.
How-to Summary
Quickly summarize the process: Cook bulgur by soaking in hot liquid. Whisk oil, lemon, zest, honey, mustard, and garlic for the vinaigrette. Combine cooled bulgur with feta, cranberries, almonds, parsley, and onion. Toss everything with the dressing and serve chilled or immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare all components up to 2 days in advance. Store the dressing separately and combine within an hour of serving for the best texture.
What can I substitute for bulgur wheat? Quinoa, couscous, or farro are excellent alternatives. Adjust liquid and cooking times according to the grain’s package directions.
How can I make this recipe vegan? Omit the feta cheese or use a vegan alternative, and ensure you use maple syrup instead of honey in the dressing.
Why is my bulgur wheat soggy? This usually means it was not allowed to cool completely before mixing, or the dressing was added too early. Ensure the grain is fully cooled and fluffed.
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Toasted pine nuts, walnuts, or pistachios would work wonderfully in place of the almonds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best salad. Do not skip toasting the almonds; toasting unlocks essential oils and flavor. Do not add the vinaigrette to hot bulgur, as it will absorb the dressing unevenly and become mushy. Do not over-chop the parsley; a rough chop preserves its freshness. Do not use bottled lemon juice; fresh juice and zest are critical for the dressing’s bright flavor. Finally, do not forget to season the vinaigrette adequately with salt and pepper, as it seasons the entire dish.
Conclusion
This Bulgur Wheat Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a truly extraordinary dish. It strikes a perfect balance between hearty and refreshing, with chewy bulgur, creamy feta, sweet cranberries, and a bright, zesty dressing. It’s nutritious, packed with fiber and protein, and comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re seeking a reliable weeknight side or a show-stopping dish for guests, this versatile salad is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.