Cherry Tabbouleh

If you’re looking for a recipe for tabbouleh salad that’s a little different look no further because this cherry tabouleh made with the ancient grain fonio, pecans, and cherries will be on constant rotation for the summer.

Join me in celebrating Juneteenth with more than 30 other Black culinary creators. Juneteenth marks our country’s second independence day, signifying the final emancipation of those enslaved in the US announced in 1865. This year, we are celebrating “Freedom Day” by offering a delightful selection of mains, sides, desserts, and refreshing drinks that are perfect for backyard barbecues and summer gatherings with friends and family.

Join us in honoring the legacy of progress and freedom by cooking and sharing these recipes. Additionally, you can easily follow each participant by using the hashtag #JuneteenthCookout2023 on Instagram. You can find a list of all recipes from the 2023 Juneteenth Virtual Cookout on the Eat the Culture website.

the menu: all red everything!

The color red is an especially significant symbol for Juneteenth as it represents resilience, perseverance, and the bloodshed of African Americans in the fight for freedom. Red foods adorn many Juneteenth tables, and recipes like Red Velvet Bread Pudding, Cherry Tabbouleh, and Watermelon Sangria serve as powerful reminders of the struggles and triumphs of the African American community.

Dash of Jazz – Hibiscus BBQ Sauce

Good Food Baddie – Mango Habanero Wings

Peaches 2 Peaches – Red Velvet Bread Pudding

Sense and Edibility® – Watermelon Sangria

Meiko And The Dish – Juneteenth Red Sherbet Punch

Heal Me Delicious – Strawberry Cookies
You can find a list of all recipes from the 2023 Juneteenth Virtual Cookout on the Eat the Culture website.

ingredients for cherry tabbouleh

To prepare a delicious batch of cherry tabouleh, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh bing cherries: Look for ripe, juicy cherries for the best flavor.
• Fonio grains: Substitute the traditional bulgur wheat with this gluten-free ancient grain.
• Pecans: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch to the dish.
• Other essential ingredients: Chopped parsley, mint, green onions, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper and aleppo pepper.

how to make this easy cherry tabbouleh salad recipe

Once you’ve gathered all of the ingredients, it doesn’t take much to prepare this mouthwatering dish. Let’s get to it:

1. Cooking Fonio Grains: start by rinsing the fonio grains under cold water to remove any impurities. Then, in a saucepan, add 1 cup of fonio grains and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the grains are tender. Once cooked, fluff the fonio grains with a fork and set them aside to cool.
2. Chopping Cherries and Pecans: While the fonio grains are cooling, pit and chop the fresh cherries. You can cut them into halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Next, take the pecans and roughly chop them into smaller pieces. The combination of cherry’s sweetness and pecans’ nuttiness will add a delightful texture to the dish.
3. Mixing All the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked fonio grains, chopped cherries, pecans, parsley, mint, and green onions. Drizzle the lemon juice and olive oil over the mixture, add the Aleppo pepper, and season with salt, pepper to taste. Gently toss all the ingredients together until well combined. The vibrant colors and fresh aroma will make your mouth water in anticipation.

how to store cherry tabbouleh + other tips

If you have any leftovers, it’s important to store them properly to maintain the freshness and quality of the dish. Place the cherry tabouleh in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It is best consumed within 2 to 3 days to ensure optimal taste and texture. However, note that the cherries might release some juice over time, so it’s recommended to drain any excess liquid before serving the leftovers.

let’s dive in!

Cherry tabouleh is a delightful and refreshing dish that combines the vibrant flavors of cherries, the nutty goodness of fonio, and the crunch of pecans. This unique twist on the traditional tabouleh salad offers a burst of flavors and textures that will excite your taste buds. In this article, we will explore the wonders of cherry tabouleh, its health benefits, step-by-step preparation, and much more. So, let’s dive into the world of this mouthwatering dish and discover why it deserves a place on your dining table.

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