Cajun Seafood Tabbouleh Salad

Let’s get this out of the way – this is in no way shape or form traditional tabbouleh.  Tabbouleh is an amazing dish, enjoyed trhoughout the Middle East but has strong origins in Lebanon and Syria.

What is Tabouli Salad?

Tabbouleh is derived from the Arabic word “taabil,” which means “seasoning” or “spice.” It is traditionally made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, olive oil, lemon juice, and various seasonings like sumac. This version captures the original essence and adds a few more herbs and ingredients to give it a slightly different flavor while still being VERY delicious!

Cajun Seafood Tabbouleh Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that blends the zesty, herby essence of traditional tabbouleh with the bold, spiced kick of Cajun-seasoned seafood. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or as a meal-prep option, combining wholesome ingredients with exciting flavors.

Tabouli (or tabbouleh) is a Mediterranean salad made with finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur, all dressed with olive oil and lemon juice. It’s known for its fresh, vibrant flavor and is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. The addition of Cajun-spiced seafood gives this version a unique twist, elevating the traditional recipe.

Cajun Tabbouleh Salad Seafood Ingredients

Salad Mix

• 1/3 cup dry bulgur, steamed in water or broth
• 4 bunches flat-leaf or curly parsley, finely chopped (about 3 cups)
• 1 cup cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons dried dill
• 1 tablespoon dried mint
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint, finely chopped
• 4 Roma tomatoes, finely diced
• 1 large ripe avocado, finely diced
• Juice from 2 lemons
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt & pepper to taste

Seafood

• 1.5 lb bay scallops
• 1 lb shrimp
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium Cajun seasoning
• Sea salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish

• Lime zest

How to Make the Best Tabbouleh Salad Recipe

To prepare the bulgur, place it in a bowl and cover it with boiling water, making sure there’s about 1/2-inch of water above the bulgur. Cover the bowl and let it sit until the bulgur has absorbed the liquid. Allow the bulgur to cool to room temperature before incorporating it into the salad.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, dill, mint, tomatoes, avocado, lemon juice, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything together until well mixed, then place the salad in the fridge to chill while you work on the seafood.

Pat the scallops and shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they are as dry as possible before cooking. Once dry, place the seafood in a bowl and mix it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned scallops and shrimp. Allow the scallops to cook untouched for 2–3 minutes to achieve a nice sear. After that, move the seafood around in the pan to finish cooking. Set the scallops and shrimp aside to cool completely before adding them to the salad.

Once the seafood has cooled, add it to the salad and toss everything together. Garnish the dish with lime zest and serve immediately, either on its own or with Romaine lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy wrap. 

What to Serve with Tabbouleh Salad

Cajun Seafood Tabbouleh Salad pairs well with various side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Romaine Lettuce Leaves: Serve the salad wrapped in crisp Romaine leaves for an extra crunch.
• Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make a great side.
• Flatbread: Warm pita bread or flatbread is a perfect complement to this dish.
• Hummus: Serve alongside hummus for an extra Mediterranean touch.
• Lemon Garlic Rice: A light, citrusy rice dish adds a nice contrast to the salad’s bold flavors.

Tools You Need for Tabouli Salad Recipe

• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Skillet for cooking seafood
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus juicer
• Paper towels (for drying seafood)
• Wooden spoon or tongs for tossing the salad

Tabbouleh Salad FAQs

Is Tabbouleh Salad Healthy?

Yes, tabbouleh salad is a healthy option. It’s loaded with fresh herbs, vegetables, and whole grains like bulgur, which provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Adding seafood boosts the protein content, making this a well-balanced and nutritious meal.

How Do You Make Tabbouleh Salad?

To make tabbouleh salad, simply chop parsley, cilantro, mint, and vegetables like tomatoes and avocado. Combine them with cooked bulgur, olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. Toss everything together and chill before serving. For this Cajun twist, add cooked scallops and shrimp for an extra punch of flavor.

What Can You Serve with Tabbouleh Salad?

Tabbouleh salad pairs well with fresh sides like grilled vegetables, flatbread, hummus, or lemon garlic rice. You can also serve it with Romaine lettuce leaves for a crunchy wrap-style meal.