Pre-salting the tomatoes and parsley removes excess liquid through osmosis, preventing the salad from becoming soupy later. Tomato water is re-infused into the salad by using it to soak the bulgur, enhancing the flavor. Soaking the bulgur in heated tomato water ensures it will soften, regardless of its grind size.
3/4 pound ripe plum tomatoes, finely diced
2 cups finely chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves and tender stems (about 2 bunches)
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more for seasoning
1/4 cup dry coarse bulgur wheat
1 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves (about 1 bunch)
2 scallions, white and light green parts only, finely chopped
5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
Pinch ground cinnamon (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper
1. Season tomatoes with 1 tsp salt. Transfer to a fine mesh strainer or colander set in a bowl and allow to drain 20 min. Reserve liquid.
2. Season parsley with remaining 1 tsp salt. Transfer to a large mixing bowl lined with paper towels and let stand 20 min. Blot parsley with towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Bring 1/2 cup reserved tomato water to a boil, then pour over bulgur in a small bowl and let stand until softened, about 1 hr (bulgur may still have a slight bite, but will continue to soften in the salad). Drain bulgur of any excess liquid and pat dry with paper towels.
4. In large mixing bowl, mix tomatoes, parsley, mint, bulgur, scallions, olive oil, lemon juice, coriander seed, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper.