Middle Eastern recipes have a way of making every meal an event. These 27 Middle Eastern dishes are no exception, each packed with flavors that command attention. They’re the sort of recipes you’ll find yourself coming back to, whether for their comforting familiarity or their exciting complexity.
The versatility of these recipes means there’s something for every occasion and palate, from the simplest of snacks to the most elaborate of feasts. They strike the perfect balance between hearty and vibrant, making them ideal for both the novice cook and the seasoned chef. Get ready to discover crazy delicious recipes where spices are the soul of the dish, and every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation.
Fattoush Salad
Fattoush Salad is a lively blend of garden-fresh vegetables and crunchy pita, united by a zesty sumac dressing. In just 20 minutes, you can savor a dish that’s a feast for the senses, with its fresh and tangy flavors. This Middle Eastern classic will quickly become a go-to for a quick, yet deeply satisfying meal. Its harmonious blend of tastes and textures is sure to captivate any salad enthusiast.
Get the Recipe: Fattoush Salad
Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks are a testament to the simple elegance of Middle Eastern cuisine, requiring about 45 minutes to assemble. The dish layers succulent eggplant with juicy tomatoes, creating a flavor-packed experience. Each bite offers a warm, aromatic sensation that’s hard to resist. It’s a vegetarian masterpiece that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Mujadara
Mujadara is a humble yet richly flavored dish that takes about 40 minutes to prepare, featuring lentils, rice, and sweet caramelized onions. It’s a comfort food treasure that’s both nourishing and irresistibly savory. This dish’s ability to turn simple ingredients into a flavor explosion is what makes it a Middle Eastern favorite to crave. The taste is a warm embrace, perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara
Homemade labneh cheese balls
Homemade labneh cheese balls are a luscious creation, taking about 24 hours to reach perfection. These tangy, creamy morsels, infused with herbs and preserved in olive oil, are a transformative addition to any spread. They offer a concentrated burst of flavor that’s both versatile and unforgettable. Once tried, these cheese balls become a staple for their smooth texture and depth of taste.
Get the Recipe: Homemade labneh cheese balls
Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
The Classic mushroom bourekas recipe, ready in about 1 hour, delivers a mouthwatering parcel of flaky pastry filled with a savory mushroom blend. This dish is a perfect example of how Middle Eastern cuisine can turn a simple pastry into an addictive delight. The crisp exterior and moist, flavorful filling are sure to be a hit. These bourekas are a must-try for lovers of savory baked goods.
Get the Recipe: Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
Spiced Grilled Corn
Spiced Grilled Corn, which takes about 25 minutes to prepare, is a sublime twist on a classic barbecue side. The kernels burst with sweetness, enhanced by a smoky char and a kick of Middle Eastern spices. This dish is an extraordinary way to enjoy corn, offering a taste that’s as addictive as it is unique. It’s a side that often steals the show with its bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Grilled Corn
Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus, ready in about 45 minutes, is a velvety blend of traditional hummus ingredients with the added richness of sweet potatoes. This innovative take on a beloved dip introduces a delightful sweetness that complements its creamy texture. It’s a standout spread that’s as addictive as it is healthy. The combination of flavors makes it a versatile favorite that’s hard to put down.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hummus
Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
The Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes, assembled in about 50 minutes, is a hearty, flavor-packed pita that’s a staple on the streets of Israel. The layers of fried eggplant, boiled potatoes, and creamy tahini sauce create a symphony of taste. This sandwich is a full meal in itself, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors that you’ll want to revisit time and again. It’s a true reflection of the vibrant and diverse flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce is a nourishing meal that’s ready in about 1 hour. The dish marries nutty quinoa with sweet squash and hearty chickpeas, all brought together by a zesty tahini sauce. It’s a dish that’s as healthful as it is flavorsome, with a delightful interplay of tastes. The green tahini sauce adds a refreshing finish that will have you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Pomegranate chicken with walnuts, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to craft, is a dish that’s both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. The pomegranate molasses and walnuts create a luscious glaze that’s both tangy and sweet. This dish is a celebration of flavors that’s often reserved for special occasions but is tempting enough to enjoy any time. The combination of textures and tastes makes this chicken dish a standout.
Get the Recipe: Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka) is a dish that brings together sautéed eggplant and a spiced tomato sauce in about 40 minutes. The eggs are poached to perfection within this rich concoction, creating a meal that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor. It’s a versatile dish that’s as suitable for a brunch as it is for a dinner. The savory and slightly spicy notes make this a dish you’ll obsess over.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese is a simple yet delectable dish that’s ready in a mere 15 minutes. The salty, savory cheese develops a beautiful crust when cooked, offering a unique texture and taste. This dish is a testament to the joy of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. The distinctive flavor and texture of halloumi are what make it a must-try experience.
Get the Recipe: Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade) is a quick, 10-minute refreshment that’s a staple in Middle Eastern households. The blend of mint and lemon creates an invigorating drink that’s both tart and sweet. Its frothy texture and cool taste make it an ideal drink to quench your thirst. This lemonade is a delightful twist on a classic that’s sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma is a dish that brings the exotic flavors of the Middle East to your table in about 1 hour. The chicken is tender and infused with a tantalizing blend of spices that replicate the traditional slow-cooked method. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that captures the essence of shawarma. This recipe is perfect for those who crave the authentic taste without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Moroccan pearl couscous salad, with a preparation time of about 30 minutes, is a vibrant dish that combines chewy couscous with crisp vegetables. The lemony dressing adds a bright note to this light yet filling salad. It’s a dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye, with a medley of flavors that are hard to forget. This salad is a beautiful representation of the fresh and lively spirit of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Fish with pomegranate sauce
Fish with pomegranate sauce is a sophisticated dish that can be prepared in about 40 minutes. The pan-fried fish is enhanced by a tangy and sweet pomegranate sauce, creating an exquisite flavor profile. This dish exemplifies the art of pairing simple ingredients to produce a complex and memorable taste. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress with its elegant presentation and irresistible flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fish with pomegranate sauce
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich, ready in about 40 minutes, is a healthier take on a traditionally indulgent Middle Eastern favorite. The spiced turkey kofta is paired with fresh salad and tangy sauces, all wrapped in a warm pita. The flavors are bold and satisfying, making this sandwich a crave-worthy meal. It’s a lighter option that still delivers on taste and is perfect for a fulfilling lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic come together in about 20 minutes, offering a dish with a dynamic contrast of flavors. The Brussels sprouts gain a delightful crunch from the air fryer, while the feta adds a creamy sharpness. Pomegranate seeds bring bursts of sweetness, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze ties it all together. This side dish is an irresistible combination of tastes and textures that will have you reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Tahini Sauce
Tahini Sauce, a staple condiment in Middle Eastern cuisine, can be whipped up in just 10 minutes. It’s a smooth, creamy sauce with a rich, nutty flavor that enhances everything it touches. Made with just a few ingredients, including tahini paste and lemon juice, it’s the perfect complement to grilled meats, salads, and wraps. Once you’ve tried this sauce, you’ll understand why it’s a beloved addition to countless dishes.
Get the Recipe: Tahini Sauce
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus, taking about 15 minutes to prepare, is a staple dip that’s taken to new heights with this recipe. The creamy texture and robust garlic flavor make it a hit at any gathering. It’s a versatile spread that’s as good on a sandwich as it is with veggies or pita. This hummus is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create a deeply flavorful and addictive dish.
Get the Recipe: Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches is a colorful and aromatic dish that takes about 1 hour to simmer to perfection. The blend of sweet peaches with hearty root vegetables creates a sweet and savory harmony. This tagine is a warm, fragrant, and comforting dish that exemplifies the exotic flavors of North African cuisine. It’s a delectable stew that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe, ready in about 45 minutes, is a plant-based twist on the classic meat kebabs. These kebabs are packed with a mix of vegetables and spices, delivering a satisfying texture and a burst of flavor. They’re perfect for grilling season or any time you desire a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on taste. The kebabs are a testament to the versatility and ingenuity of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini is a smoky eggplant dip that’s ready in about 45 minutes. This version omits tahini for a lighter taste that lets the roasted eggplant shine. The smokiness of the eggplant combined with the brightness of lemon juice and garlic makes for a dip that’s hard to resist. It’s a flavorful alternative to traditional baba ghanoush that’s sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Kid-friendly beet hummus
Kid-friendly beet hummus, taking about 15 minutes to prepare, is a vibrant and healthy dip that’s sure to win over eaters of all ages. The addition of beets lends a sweet, earthy flavor and a stunning color. This hummus is not only visually appealing but also packs a nutritional punch. It’s a fun way to introduce new flavors to kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Kid-friendly beet hummus
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus, ready in just 15 minutes, is a dish inspired by renowned chef Yotam Ottolenghi. The asparagus is cooked to crispy perfection and seasoned with a unique blend of spices. This side dish is a quick and delicious way to enjoy a vegetable that’s often simply steamed. The flavors are bold and the texture is spot on, making it a side dish to remember.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
grilled chicken kofta kebab
Grilled chicken kofta kebab, which takes about 30 minutes to prepare, is a juicy and flavorful dish that’s a staple at any Middle Eastern barbecue. The chicken is seasoned with a medley of spices and grilled to create a succulent and aromatic kebab. This dish is a lighter alternative to red meat kebabs but is just as, if not more, tantalizing. It’s a protein-packed meal that’s sure to satisfy any kebab craving.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab
Roasted bell pepper salad
Roasted bell pepper salad, ready in about 30 minutes, is a colorful and flavorful dish that’s both simple to make and delightful to eat. The peppers are roasted until sweet and tender, then mixed with a blend of spices and herbs. This salad is a burst of flavor in every bite, showcasing the natural sweetness of the peppers. It’s a side dish that can easily become the star of the table.
Get the Recipe: Roasted bell pepper salad