Freekeh salad recipe

Freekeh (also called frikeh, farik and green wheat) is wheat that is picked when young, then dried and roasted. When shelled, it resembles bulgur or farro, and can be used in many of the same applications. While it has traditionally been popular in Lebanon, Syria, Israel, Palestine and Egypt, Oprah and others have brought this ancient grain into the modern limelight.

Read about 10 more superfoods to incorporate into your diet  >>

Indeed, freekeh is a superfood with four times the amount of fiber than brown rice. It also has more vitamins and minerals than traditional wheat. Use it to make a pilaf, in place of rice, or in a fresh grain and vegetable salad like this.

Freekeh salad

Makes 4 side servings

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup freekeh (green wheat)
• 1-3/4 cups water
• 1 small cucumber, chopped
• 6 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered if large
• 1/4 cup roughly chopped or torn basil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper

Directions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan or small pot over medium heat.
2. Add the freekeh and stir until fully coated in oil and lightly toasted, about four minutes.
3. Add the water to cover and bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer until the water has reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for another 10 minutes, or until the water is fully absorbed.
6. Remove from the heat and allow to rest, covered, for five minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork.
8. Transfer to a large bowl and allow to cool.
9. Add the cucumber, tomatoes, basil and lemon juice, and toss.
10. Season with salt and pepper and serve.

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