Tabbouleh salad (cracked wheat salad)

Tired of your usual salad? Try this cracked wheat salad with fresh herbs, tomatoes and cucumbers.

Bulgur is the kernel of wheat that has been cracked for cooking. It has a nutty flavor.

Ingredients (Serves 8)

1 1/2 cups water
3/4 cup bulgur (cracked wheat), rinsed and drained
1 cup diced, seeded tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped scallions or green onions
1 cup finely diced cucumber
8 olives, green or black, sliced
1 cup chopped parsley
1/4 cup chopped mint or basil, optional
1 teaspoon dill weed, optional
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the bulgur. Cover and let stand until the bulgur is tender and the liquid is completely absorbed, about 15 to 20 minutes.

In a large bowl, add the bulgur and the remaining ingredients. Toss gently just until the ingredients are evenly distributed. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow the flavors to blend. Serve chilled.