Marinated skewers, bulgur and pomegranate salad

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup bulgur wheat
• 2 cups water
• 1 pomegranate, seeded
• 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine the chicken, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight.
2. Preheat the grill or griddle to high heat.
3. Tread the marinated chicken onto skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Meanwhile, place the bulgur and water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the bulgur is tender.
6. Drain any excess water and transfer the bulgur to a large mixing bowl.
7. Add the pomegranate seeds, mint, parsley and cilantro to the bowl and toss to combine.
8. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil until emulsified. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Pour the dressing over the bulgur salad and toss to combine.
10. Serve the marinated skewers with the bulgur and pomegranate salad on the side.

Verdict:

This marinated skewers, bulgur and pomegranate salad is a delicious and healthy dish that is perfect for any occasion. The smoky chicken skewers are perfectly complemented by the light and refreshing bulgur salad, which is bursting with the flavour of fresh herbs and sweet pomegranate seeds. The whole dish is finished off with a zesty lemon dressing, which brings everything together beautifully. This recipe is easy to make and can be served as a main course or as part of a buffet or barbecue spread.