Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing Bulgur salad? This ancient grain is a staple in many Middle Eastern cuisines, and when combined with juicy fruits, tangy cheeses, and crunchy veggies, it becomes a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring 20 different Bulgur salads that are perfect for the summer season.
From classic Mediterranean combinations to spicy kick-starters and sweet treats, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next meal or BBQ gathering. Whether you’re looking for something light and easy to whip up or something more elaborate and impressive, we’ve got you covered with these 20 refreshing Bulgur salads recipes for summer.
Stay tuned as we dive into the world of flavors and textures that await…
Mediterranean Bulgar Salad with Feta and Olives
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the Mediterranean’s finest ingredients – bulgur, feta, olives, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, crumbled feta cheese, sliced olives, and chopped parsley.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Spicy Bulgar Salad with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the nutty taste of bulgur, creamy tahini dressing, and a kick of heat from the red pepper flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the bulgur according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Let it cool.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine tahini paste, lemon juice, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooled bulgur, chickpeas, and tahini dressing. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including cooking time for the bulgur)
Greek-Inspired Bulgar Salad with Cucumber and Tomatoes
A refreshing summer salad that combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the sweetness of cucumbers and tomatoes, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 2 cups chopped cucumber
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with lemon juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of assembly.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Greek-inspired bulgur salad!
Roasted Vegetable Bulgar Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
This hearty salad combines roasted vegetables with nutty bulgur and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, chopped
– 1 small yellow squash, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss together bell pepper, zucchini, and squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook bulgur according to package instructions.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked bulgur, roasted vegetables, and feta cheese (if using). Drizzle with the lemon vinaigrette and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Bulgar Salad with Avocado, Corn, and Lime Dressing
This refreshing summer salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with creamy avocado, sweet corn, and a tangy lime dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, diced avocado, and corn kernels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the bulgur mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Bulgar Salad with Dried Apricots
This vibrant salad combines the warm spices of Morocco with the nutty flavor of bulgur and the sweetness of dried apricots. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, parsley, mint, and apricots.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour the dressing over the bulgur mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Bulgar Tabbouleh with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
This classic Middle Eastern salad is a refreshing twist on traditional tabbouleh, incorporating the brightness of lemon and the freshness of herbs. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bulgur and soak it in cold water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the parsley, mint, and scallions.
3. Add the soaked and drained bulgur to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Squeeze the lemon juice over the salad and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Warm Bulgar Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Kale
Warm Bulgur Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Kale: A nutritious and flavorful side dish perfect for a cozy evening or as a healthy addition to your meal routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur wheat
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook for 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet, stirring to combine with onion. Cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur wheat, roasted sweet potatoes, and wilted kale mixture.
6. Stir in cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. If using feta cheese, crumble on top of the salad.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bulgar Salad with Grilled Halloumi and Mint
A refreshing summer salad that combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the creamy richness of grilled halloumi cheese, all tied together with a burst of fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled halloumi cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bulgur and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the halloumi cheese with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, until melted and slightly charred.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bulgur, minced garlic, crumbled halloumi cheese, and chopped fresh mint. Toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Bulgar Salad with Edamame and Ginger Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the sweetness of edamame, all tied together with a zesty ginger dressing. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup frozen edamame, thawed
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bulgur and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a pan, sauté the edamame with a pinch of salt until tender.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and sesame oil to make the dressing.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, edamame, and chopped scallions.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bulgar Salad with Pomegranate, Walnuts, and Parsley
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavors of bulgur, sweet pomegranate seeds, crunchy walnuts, and fresh parsley for a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (seedless)
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bulgur according to package instructions using water or vegetable broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, pomegranate arils, walnuts, and parsley.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summer Bulgar Salad with Watermelon and Feta
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer salad, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 cups watermelon cubes
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bulgur according to package instructions. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooled bulgur, watermelon cubes, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh mint leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for bulgur)
Bulgar Salad with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the earthy sweetness of roasted beets, tangy goat cheese, and a hint of freshness from parsley. Perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Wrap the beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook the bulgur according to package instructions.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped parsley.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including roasting time)
Herbed Bulgar Salad with Grilled Zucchini and Lemon
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the sweetness of grilled zucchini, all tied together with a bright and tangy lemon vinaigrette. Perfect for a light and healthy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, grilled zucchini, parsley, mint, garlic, and lemon juice.
4. Toss to combine, adjusting seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bulgar Salad with Smoked Salmon and Dill
A refreshing twist on traditional salads, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the richness of smoked salmon and the brightness of fresh dill.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 6 oz smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked bulgur, flaked smoked salmon, and chopped fresh dill.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss gently.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese if desired (optional).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tex-Mex Bulgar Salad with Black Beans and Cilantro
This vibrant salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the spicy kick of black beans, all tied together with a burst of fresh cilantro. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bulgur, black beans, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over the bulgur mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus cooking time for black beans)
Bulgar Salad with Grilled Peaches and Arugula
This refreshing summer salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the sweetness of grilled peaches, peppery arugula, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked bulgur
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill peach slices for 2-3 minutes per side, until caramelized and tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked bulgur, arugula, crumbled feta cheese, olive oil, and lemon juice. Toss to combine.
4. Top the salad with grilled peaches and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional arugula if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Middle Eastern Bulgar Salad with Sumac and Pistachios
This hearty salad is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, combining the nutty flavor of bulgur wheat with the tanginess of sumac and crunch of pistachios. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur wheat
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons sumac powder
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bulgur wheat and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the bulgur wheat again, then cook according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, sumac powder, parsley, and pistachios.
4. Add the cooked bulgur wheat to the bowl and toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (excluding soaking time)
Bulgar Salad with Roasted Eggplant and Yogurt Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the nutty flavor of bulgur with the smoky sweetness of roasted eggplant, all tied together with a tangy yogurt dressing. Perfect for a light summer meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 medium eggplants
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Drizzle olive oil over the eggplants, then sprinkle with garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Cook bulgur according to package instructions. Drain and let cool.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
6. Add roasted eggplant and cooked bulgur to the bowl and toss to combine.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Citrusy Bulgar Salad with Orange Segments and Almonds
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing Citrusy Bulgar Salad, featuring juicy orange segments and crunchy almonds. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish to accompany your favorite grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup bulgur
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bulgur and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice and olive oil. Add chopped onion and parsley; stir to combine.
3. Add the cooked bulgur to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
4. Fold in the sliced almonds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange the orange segments on top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing bulgur salad recipes! From Mediterranean-inspired dishes to international flavors, we’ve got 20 delicious and easy-to-make options that are perfect for hot weather. Try our Mediterranean Bulgar Salad with feta and olives, or get a taste of Morocco with our Moroccan-Spiced Bulgar Salad featuring dried apricots. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and citrusy or hearty and filling, we’ve got a bulgur salad recipe to suit your summer style.
