Looking for a delicious, nutritious, and gluten-free option for lunch or dinner? This Millet-Tabbouleh Salad is a perfect choice! It’s filling, fresh, and packed with wholesome ingredients that support overall health. Plus, it’s easy to meal-prep and versatile enough to enjoy all week long.
What Is Millet?
Millet is a gluten-free, ancient grain celebrated for its versatility and nutritional benefits. Rich in magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, millet supports healthy digestion, promotes energy, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Its mild, nutty flavor and fluffy texture make it an excellent base for salads like this one, offering a nutritious alternative to traditional grains like wheat or couscous.
What Is Tabbouleh?
Tabbouleh is a classic Middle Eastern salad traditionally made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat. However, this gluten-free twist swaps bulgur for millet, creating a vibrant and healthy dish that’s perfect for meal prep. Tabbouleh can be easily customized with seasonal ingredients, making it a versatile addition to your weekly menu.
Why Avoid Gluten?
If you’re following RA Balance Florida’s wellness recommendations, you might be advised to reduce or eliminate gluten from your diet. Here’s why:
For some people, gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye—can trigger inflammation, particularly in those with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus. Unlike other proteins, gluten isn’t fully digested in the body. For individuals sensitive to gluten, partially digested fragments can “leak” through the intestinal lining into the bloodstream, triggering an immune response that causes inflammation in the gut and beyond.
This inflammatory response can contribute to a wide range of symptoms, including joint pain, skin issues, fatigue, and even conditions like anemia or osteoporosis. While less is known about gluten sensitivity compared to celiac disease, many people find that avoiding gluten helps reduce symptoms and supports their overall healing journey.
Why You’ll Love This Salad
This Millet-Tabbouleh Salad is a complete meal in a bowl—gluten-free, full of fresh flavors, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a nourishing dish to share, this salad is a delicious way to support your health.
Related Reading: The Gut Connection: Decoding Digestive Wellness
Millet-Tabbouleh Salad Recipe
This vibrant, nutrient-packed salad combines the refreshing flavors of fresh herbs, crisp cucumber, and a surprising twist—sweet strawberries. It’s an excellent meal-prep option that keeps well in the fridge for up to three days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw millet
- 2 cups water
- 1 large bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- ½ bunch fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced
- ½ cup strawberries, chopped
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- A handful of fresh greens (arugula, baby kale, or baby spinach), optional for serving
Directions
- Cook the Millet: In a medium saucepan, combine millet, 2 cups water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let stand for 10 minutes. Fluff the millet with a fork and allow it to cool completely.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked millet, parsley, mint, shallot, cucumber, and strawberries.
- Season the Salad: Add salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl. Toss until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the dressing.
- Serve: For an extra boost of greens, serve the tabbouleh over a bed of arugula, baby kale, or spinach.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Looking for more ways to enhance your wellness journey? At RA Balance Florida, we’re dedicated to supporting you with personalized care, including biomagnetic therapy and holistic nutritional guidance.
Contact us today at (772) 262-2679 or book your appointment online to get started. With flexible scheduling options—including in-home visits in select South Florida areas—and tailored treatment plans designed just for you, we’re here to help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Let’s take the first step together!