Lemon Tarragon Bulgur Salad Recipe – Lebanese Special
The Lemon Tarragon Bulgur Salad is a vibrant, wholesome Lebanese salad combining nutty bulgur wheat, fresh lemon juice and fragrant tarragon for a zesty flavor profile. Tossed with crisp cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, red onion and parsley, this grain salad offers satisfying texture with bright, garden-fresh vegetables. Whether as a nutritious lunch or a colorful side dish, it’s simple, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather or light meals.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time25 min
Lemon Tarragon Bulgur Salad Ingredients:
- 1 cup bulgur wheat
- 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried tarragon)
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Feta cheese or goat cheese, crumbled (optional)
Cook Bulgur:
Rinse the bulgur wheat under cold water. In a medium pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil.
Add the bulgur, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the bulgur is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and let cool.
Prepare Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped tarragon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the cooled bulgur with parsley, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Serve:
Garnish with crumbled feta or goat cheese if desired.
Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Recipe Notes:
Bulgur Variety & Cooking Time: Use coarse or regular bulgur for fuller texture; fine bulgur cooks faster if you’re short on time.
Dressing Balance: Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the salad, while olive oil smooths it out—adjust the ratio to suit your taste.
Herb Swaps & Flavor Twist: If tarragon is unavailable, try substituting fresh dill or basil; dried herbs can be used but with less intensity.
Vegetable Variations: Bell peppers or olives make excellent additions for extra color or tang; cherry tomatoes and cucumber are ideal for crunch.
Cheese & Dietary Options: Feta or goat cheese offers creamy, salty contrast, but omit for a dairy-free version.
Storage & Serving Suggestions: Chill the salad in the fridge for 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; stir before serving to redistribute dressing.
