How long can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make the maftoul ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and cool the maftoul in advance and combine it with fresh ingredients just before serving.

What can I substitute for maftoul?

Couscous or pearl barley can be used as an alternative, though each offers a slightly different texture.

Is there a vegan dressing option?

Yes, substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt to make the dressing vegan.

Can I add protein to this salad?

Grilled chicken or chickpeas make a great addition for extra protein.

Palestinian Maftoul Salad with Sumac Yogurt Dressing

Name: Palestinian Maftoul Salad with Sumac Yogurt Dressing
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Salad
Ingredients: 1 cup maftoul; 2 cups water or vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 small red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon sumac; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted; Lemon wedges for serving

A vibrant and hearty Middle Eastern salad

Dive into the rich flavors of Palestine with this refreshing maftoul salad, perfectly complemented by a tangy sumac yogurt dressing.

45 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Maftoul Salad

1 cup maftoul

Palestinian couscous

2 cups water or vegetable broth

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cucumber, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

For the Sumac Yogurt Dressing

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon sumac

2 tablespoons lemon juice

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 garlic clove, minced

Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garnishes

2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted

Lemon wedges for serving

Preparation

Preparing the Maftoul

Rinse the maftoul

Rinse the maftoul under cold water.

Heat olive oil

In a medium-sized pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Toast the maftoul

Add maftoul and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Toast gently to enhance its nutty flavor.

Cooking the Maftoul

Add liquid and bring to boil

Pour in the water or broth, and bring to a boil.

Simmer the maftoul

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes until liquid is absorbed.

Do not overcook maftoul or it will become mushy.

Fluff and cool

Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.

Using a fork helps keep the maftoul light and airy.

Cooking Process

Assemble the Salad

Once the maftoul has cooled, combine with tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, parsley, and mint in a large bowl.

Make the Dressing

Whisk together the Greek yogurt, sumac, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Combine Flavors

Pour the dressing over the maftoul mixture and gently toss to coat.

Plating & Serving