If you’re looking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dish that bursts with fresh flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe. It combines the nutty, chewy goodness of freekeh with bright herbs, crisp veggies, and a zingy lemon dressing to create something that’s both wholesome and utterly irresistible. Perfect as a light lunch or a side to your favorite grilled dishes, this salad brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using straightforward, fresh ingredients, this Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe balances taste and texture beautifully. Each component plays a role: from the hearty freekeh grain providing substance, to the herbs lending freshness and the tangy dressing tying it all together.
- 1 cup freekeh (cracked or whole grain): This roasted green wheat grain offers a smoky, nutty flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture that forms the salad’s base.
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth: Cooking freekeh in broth adds a subtle depth, but water works perfectly fine for a neutral backdrop.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy and sweet, they bring vibrant color and juicy bursts with every bite.
- 1 cucumber, diced: Adds a cool crunch that contrasts beautifully with the earthiness of freekeh.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Just a bit of pungency for a subtle sharpness and a pop of purple hue.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers bright, grassy notes that enhance the overall freshness.
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped: Brings a cooling aroma and flavor that livens up the salad.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a citrusy dimension and an herbaceous kick, essential in this recipe.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional), crumbled: A tangy, creamy addition that adds richness and contrasts the fresh herbs.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: The olive oil binds everything together with a silky texture and fruity undertones.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed): Brightens and balances flavors with zingy acidity.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional): Gives an extra vinegar punch if you like your salad a bit tangier.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor.
How to Make Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Freekeh
Start by rinsing your freekeh under cold water to remove any dust or impurities. Then combine the freekeh with water or vegetable broth in a medium saucepan and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes until the grains are tender but firm. Once cooked, drain any excess liquid and let it cool completely. This base is key—it provides that trademark nutty flavor and chewy texture that gives the salad its heart.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs
While the freekeh is cooling, chop your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion into bite-sized pieces. Then finely chop the parsley, mint, and cilantro. Combining these herbs gives the salad a fresh, almost garden-like aroma and a flavor that is vibrant and refreshing. Taking your time chopping the herbs finely will ensure each bite is fragrant and perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, apple cider vinegar (if using), salt, and pepper. This lemony, slightly tangy dressing is the magic touch, infusing every grain and vegetable piece with brightness and a silky finish that ties all the ingredients together.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled freekeh with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour over the dressing and stir gently to coat everything evenly. Finally, fold in the crumbled feta cheese if you’re including it. The salty, creamy bits of feta add an irresistible contrast to the fresh, herby flavors.
How to Serve Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe, sprinkle extra herbs like chopped parsley or mint on top just before serving. A few cracked black peppercorns or a drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a finishing touch. If you love a bit of crunch, try toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds for texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This salad is a superstar side dish all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with grilled meats such as chicken or lamb kebabs. It also complements roasted vegetables or can be served alongside falafel or hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired feast. The hearty freekeh will keep you full and satisfied whether you’re aiming for a light lunch or a fulfilling dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers for a pretty, edible bowl. You can also layer it in clear glass jars for meal prep or picnic-friendly portions. Another idea is to stuff pita pockets with this salad, turning it into an on-the-go, handheld delight infused with herbs and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the flavors meld beautifully over time, leftovers often taste even better the next day. Just give it a quick stir before serving, and add any fresh herbs or feta if desired for an extra burst of flavor.
Freezing
Freekeh itself freezes well, but since this salad includes fresh herbs and raw vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture and flavor. For best results, prepare the salad fresh or freeze the cooked freekeh separately if you want to save time for future meals.
Reheating
If you prefer your Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe warm, gently reheat just the freekeh portion in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth before mixing with the fresh vegetables and herbs. Avoid heating the full salad to preserve the crispness of the vegetables and the fresh aroma of the herbs.
FAQs
What is freekeh?
Freekeh is a roasted green wheat grain known for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. It’s high in fiber and protein, making it an excellent healthy grain choice for salads and side dishes.
Can I use frozen herbs for this Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe?
Fresh herbs are definitely preferred for vibrant flavor and texture. Frozen herbs tend to become mushy and lose their aromatic punch, which will affect the overall freshness of the salad.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Freekeh is made from wheat, so it is not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute freekeh with quinoa or buckwheat, keeping the rest of the recipe the same.
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese, or substitute it with a vegan cheese alternative or toasted nuts for added richness.
How long does it take to make this Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe?
From start to finish, it takes about 35 minutes—10 minutes to prep the ingredients and 25 minutes to cook the freekeh. It’s a quick way to get a healthy, flavorful meal on the table.
Final Thoughts
Making this Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe is like welcoming a fresh burst of sunshine to your table—nutty, herby, zesty, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re new to freekeh or a longtime lover of wholesome grains, this salad will quickly become one of those go-to dishes you want to make again and again. So grab those fresh herbs and give it a whirl—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Herbed Freekeh Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and nutritious Herbed Freekeh Salad featuring tender whole grain freekeh mixed with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or side dish, this salad combines wholesome ingredients for a flavorful Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Grains and Liquids
- 1 cup freekeh (cracked or whole grain)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking freekeh)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Dressing & Extras
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional), crumbled
Instructions
- Cook the Freekeh: Rinse the freekeh under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the freekeh and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 20-25 minutes until the freekeh is tender but still slightly chewy. Drain any excess liquid and let it cool to room temperature.
- Prepare the Vegetables and Herbs: While the freekeh is cooking, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, finely chop the red onion, and chop the fresh parsley, mint, and cilantro. Set aside.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, apple cider vinegar if using, salt, and pepper until well combined and emulsified.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled freekeh with the chopped vegetables and herbs. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Add Feta and Serve: If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top of the salad before serving. Adjust seasonings with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Freekeh can be found at Middle Eastern grocery stores or health food stores.
- Vegetable broth adds extra flavor but water works just fine.
- The salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours to allow flavors to meld.
- Feta cheese is optional and can be omitted for a dairy-free version.
- Adjust herbs and vegetables based on seasonality and personal preference.
