Toasted Buckwheat Tabbouleh

Ingredients and Weight:

• Buckwheat groats - 1 cup
• Pitted green olives - ½ cup
• Diced tomato - 1 cup
• Cucumber, diced - ½ cup
• Mint leaves - ¼ cup, chopped
• Parsley, fresh - ¼ cup, chopped
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Extra virgin olive oil - 3 tbsp
• Salt and pepper - to taste
• 3 cups of cooked quinoa (optional)

Preparation Time: 45 minutes (including buckwheat toasting and quinoa cooking time)

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Spread the buckwheat groats on a baking sheet and toast for about 10 minutes or until golden brown, shaking the sheet occasionally. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the toasted buckwheat, olives, tomato, cucumber, mint, and parsley.
4. Add the lemon zest and juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. If using quinoa, cook according to package instructions and let cool. Add to the bowl and mix again.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 350 per serving (based on using the ingredients mentioned)
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 6g (based on ingredient nutritional values)

Dish Characteristics:

• Unique combination of buckwheat and traditional tabbouleh ingredients.
• Refreshing summer dish with a crunchy texture from the buckwheat and olives.
• The lemon juice and olive oil provide a rich, yet light flavor profile.

User Comments:

1. "The buckwheat added a unique texture to the traditional tabbouleh, loved it!"
2. "This dish was refreshing and full of flavor, perfect for a hot summer day."
3. "I didn't expect to like the combination of buckwheat and tabbouleh, but it was delicious!"

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Make sure to use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
• Adjust seasoning according to personal taste.
• If not using quinoa, the dish will still be delicious without it. Quinoa is optional.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator and serve chilled for a refreshing salad anytime.