Description
This Herbed Freekeh Salad is a refreshing Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring nutty freekeh grain combined with fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a tangy lemon-garlic dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or a make-ahead meal, this wholesome salad offers a delightful balance of textures and vibrant flavors with the option of adding feta cheese for creaminess.
Ingredients
Scale
Grain Base
- 1 cup uncooked freekeh
- 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
Other
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Freekeh: In a medium saucepan, combine the freekeh, water or vegetable broth, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the saucepan and cook for 20–25 minutes until the freekeh is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff the grain with a fork. Allow to cool slightly.
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked freekeh along with the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, mint, and dill. If desired, incorporate the crumbled feta cheese to enhance creaminess and flavor.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and salt and black pepper to taste until well combined.
- Toss and Season: Pour the lemon-garlic dressing over the freekeh salad. Gently toss everything together to evenly coat all the ingredients. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill and Serve: For best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes before serving. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed at room temperature. This salad also keeps well for meal prep and develops deeper flavor after resting.
Notes
- This salad is versatile; add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or avocado for extra protein.
- Freekeh can be substituted with quinoa or farro if preferred.
- The salad holds up well for meal prep and tastes even better after a day in the fridge.
