Looking for a delicious and low-calorie salad option? Look no further than 1/2 cup (110 g) Tabouli Salad! With just 140 calories per serving, this salad is a healthy and satisfying choice for any meal.
Tabouli Salad is made with a variety of fresh ingredients, including bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil. It's a great source of fiber and vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to any diet.
In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of eating Tabouli Salad, as well as some tips for preparing, storing, and serving it. Whether you're a vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply looking for a tasty and healthy meal, Tabouli Salad is a great choice.
Low Calorie Salad Option
Tabouli Salad is a great low-calorie option for anyone looking to eat healthier. With just 140 calories per serving, it's an ideal choice for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The salad is also low in fat and high in fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. This makes it a great choice for lunch or dinner, as it can help you stay on track with your healthy eating goals.
Ingredients
Tabouli Salad is made with a variety of fresh ingredients, including bulgur wheat, parsley, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing made with lemon juice and olive oil. Bulgur wheat is a whole grain that is rich in fiber, protein, and nutrients. It's a great source of energy and helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied. Parsley is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, while tomatoes and onions are great sources of antioxidants. The dressing used in Tabouli Salad is made with fresh lemon juice and extra-virgin olive oil, which are both rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. It's a delicious and healthy way to add flavor to your salad.
Serving Size
The suggested serving size for Tabouli Salad is 1/2 cup (110 g), which contains just 140 calories. This is a great portion size for lunch or dinner, as it provides plenty of nutrients and fiber without overloading your calorie intake. If you're looking for a larger or more filling meal, you can increase the serving size to 1 cup (220 g) or more. Just be sure to adjust your calorie intake accordingly, and pair it with some protein or healthy fats to ensure a balanced meal.
Preparation Time
Tabouli Salad is a quick and easy salad to prepare, with a total prep time of 15-20 minutes. The bulgur wheat should be soaked in water for about 10 minutes before being combined with the other ingredients. After that, simply chop the parsley, tomatoes, and onions, and mix everything together with the lemon juice and olive oil. The salad can be served immediately, or refrigerated for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
Benefits of Eating Tabouli Salad
Tabouli Salad is a highly nutritious salad that offers numerous health benefits. Some of these include: - High in fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. - Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, iron, and calcium.
Suitable for Vegetarians
Tabouli Salad is suitable for vegetarians, as it contains no meat or animal products. It's a great way to get some plant-based protein and fiber into your diet, and can be paired with other vegetarian dishes for a complete meal.
Gluten-Free
Tabouli Salad can be made gluten-free by using quinoa instead of bulgur wheat. Quinoa is a gluten-free grain that is rich in protein and fiber, making it a great alternative to wheat-based grains. Just be sure to use gluten-free ingredients in the dressing as well, such as tamari instead of soy sauce.
Storage Instructions
Tabouli Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a great meal prep option for busy weekdays, as you can easily make a batch of salad on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. Just be sure to store the dressing separately from the salad, and mix the two together just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
Different Variations of Tabouli Salad
There are many different variations of Tabouli Salad that you can try, depending on your preferences and dietary needs. Some possible variations include: - Adding chickpeas or other legumes for additional protein. - Using different herbs, such as mint or cilantro, for a different flavor profile.
Pairs Well with Other Dishes
Tabouli Salad pairs well with a variety of other dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Some dishes that Tabouli Salad pairs well with include: - Grilled chicken, beef, or fish. - Hummus and pita bread for a Middle Eastern-style meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tabouli Salad
1. What is Tabouli Salad?
Tabouli Salad is a Middle Eastern salad that is typically made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint, tomatoes, onions, and lemon juice. It is also sometimes referred to as Tabbouleh.
2. How many calories are in a 1/2 cup of Tabouli Salad?
A 1/2 cup (110 g) serving of Tabouli Salad contains approximately 140 calories.
3. Is Tabouli Salad healthy?
Yes, Tabouli Salad is generally considered to be a healthy food. It is low in calories and fat, and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, some versions of the salad may contain higher amounts of salt, oil, or other ingredients that can add extra calories and reduce its nutritional value.
4. How is Tabouli Salad typically served?
Tabouli Salad can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It is often served with pita bread or as a topping for grilled meats or fish. It can also be used as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
5. Is Tabouli Salad gluten-free?
No, traditional Tabouli Salad is typically made with bulgur wheat, which contains gluten. However, there are gluten-free versions of the salad that use quinoa or other grains instead of bulgur. It is important to check the ingredients before consuming to ensure that it is gluten-free.