Go Back
Top view of bulgur cherry walnut salad with dried cherries, toasted walnuts, and fresh herbs in a rustic bowl.

Bulgur Cherry Walnut Salad

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed salad? This Bulgur Cherry Walnut Salad is bursting with textures and vibrant flavors, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or light lunches! It features hearty bulgur wheat, sweet dried cherries, crunchy toasted walnuts, and a zesty lemon dressing. Plus, it’s super customizable with vegan options and perfect for meal prep. You'll love how easy it is to whip up in just 30 minutes, with pantry staples you already have! Feel free to tweak the ingredients to suit your taste—this salad is very forgiving and endlessly versatile.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Fridge Setting Time 30 minutes
Course Salads, Healthy Recipes
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 bars
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup bulgur wheat / 180g bulgur wheat
  • 2 cups boiling water / 480ml boiling water
  • ¾ cup dried cherries / 90g dried cherries substitute with dried cranberries if desired
  • ½ cup walnuts chopped and toasted / 60g walnuts (pecans also work great)
  • ½ cup fresh parsley chopped / 30g parsley
  • ¼ cup green onions thinly sliced / 25g green onions (or substitute with chives)
  • ¼ cup olive oil / 60ml olive oil use extra virgin for best flavor
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice / 30ml lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste start with ½ teaspoon salt and adjust

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Bulgur:
    Place bulgur in a large, heatproof bowl.
    Pour boiling water over the bulgur, cover the bowl, and let it sit for 15 minutes.
    Fluff the bulgur with a fork to separate the grains.
  • Prepare the Ingredients:
    While bulgur is resting, chop parsley, slice green onions, and toast walnuts if needed.
    Measure out dried cherries.
  • Mix the Salad:
    In a large bowl, combine bulgur, dried cherries, toasted walnuts, parsley, and green onions.
  • Make the Dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Assemble:
    Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients.
    Toss everything gently until well coated.
  • Chill (Optional):
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
  • Serve:
    Serve fresh or pack for meal prep! Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Notes

    • Ingredient Swaps: Swap walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
    • Make It Vegan: Ensure dried cherries are unsweetened and check labels.
    • Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, grilled chicken, or tofu for a complete meal.
    • Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    • Serving Suggestion: Great as a side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
QR Code linking back to recipe