
Silken Lebanese Rice Tabbouleh with Sumac Dressing
A refreshing twist on the classic Levantine salad
This vibrant Lebanese Rice Tabbouleh brings a unique twist to a traditional favorite by incorporating silky rice grains and an aromatic sumac dressing, enhancing the fresh flavors of herbs and vegetables.
- 1 h 10 min
- 6
- Intermediate
Ingredients
For the Rice
For the Salad
For the Sumac Dressing
Preparation
Cooking the Rice
Combine Rice
In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water, and salt.
Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and achieve a fluffier texture before cooking. For a nuttier flavor, roast the rice slightly before cooking.
Bring to a Boil
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Simmer
Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
Rest and Fluff
Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Preparing the Salad
Mix Vegetables
In a large bowl, mix chopped parsley, mint, spring onions, tomatoes, and cucumber.
Toss and Set Aside
Toss gently to combine and set aside.
Combine with Rice
Once the rice has cooled, carefully fold it into the salad mix.
Ensure rice is at room temperature before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the herbs.
Cooking Process
Rice Cooking
Bring water and rice to a boil, simmer, cover, and let stand.
Salad Assembly
Combine all green ingredients and gently fold in cooled rice.
Dressing Combination
Whisk olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
Plating & Serving

Silken Lebanese Rice Tabbouleh with Sumac Dressing
Silken Lebanese Rice Tabbouleh with Sumac Dressing
Serve Family-Style
Serve the tabbouleh family-style using a large shallow dish for an inviting presentation, allowing guests to appreciate the colorful arrangement of the salad.
Sauce Pairings
Garnishes & Accompaniments
Perfect Sides
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, prepare the salad and dressing separately a day before, but mix them just before serving to keep the greens fresh.
What can I substitute for sumac?
A mixture of lemon zest and a dash of vinegar can mimic the tangy flavor of sumac.
Is there a gluten-free substitute for bulgur?
The rice in this recipe already serves as a gluten-free alternative to bulgur.
How can I adapt this for a vegan diet?
This dish is already vegan-friendly, perfect for plant-based diets.
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Further reading & resources
Curated links to learn more, find ingredients, or explore related content.
