Share
Salads from the Middle East are a perfect example of the region's culinary mastery, with its fresh flavours, fragrant spices, and nutritious ingredients. Salads here are an enticing adventure through a rainbow of colours and flavours. These salads aren't just side dishes, they're main courses. Middle Eastern salads showcase the region's dedication to health and culinary artistry with their incorporation of fresh herbs, tangy citrus, healthy grains, and an array of veggies. From the ubiquitous tabbouleh to not to miss fattoush these salads showcase the region's culinary expertise and appreciation of the earth's gifts in a variety of ways.
Here are six Middle Eastern salads you can easily make at home:
Tabbouleh
This iconic Lebanese salad features finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, onions, and soaked bulgur wheat (swipe it with dalia). The vibrant green and red hues, combined with a tangy dressing of olive oil and lemon juice, create a refreshing and nutritious dish.
Fattoush
Fattoush is a delightful Syrian salad that combines crisp lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and radishes with toasted pita bread pieces. The dressing of sumac (or lemon zest), olive oil, and pomegranate molasses lends a zesty and sweet-sour flavor profile.
Hummus Salad
This salad is a creative twist on the classic hummus. It incorporates creamy hummus as a base, topped with a variety of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and red onions. Drizzle with tahini and olive oil for a creamy and indulgent touch.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A hearty and protein-rich salad, it features cooked chickpeas mixed with chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, red onions, and cucumbers. Toss in Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese, then dress with lemon vinaigrette for a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
Couscous Salad
This versatile salad uses fluffy couscous as a base and can be customized with a variety of ingredients. Add diced vegetables, dried fruits, nuts, and fresh herbs. The dressing can be a simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices, making it a colorful and satisfying dish.
Mediterranean Lentil Salad
This salad combines cooked lentils with colorful bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and fresh herbs like parsley and mint. The dressing is a simple mix of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and cumin. The result is a hearty and protein-packed salad with a burst of Mediterranean flavors.
These salads from the Middle East provide a colourful and flavorful introduction to the region's wide range of cuisines. Enjoy these delicious salads as refreshing side dishes or as main courses by modifying the recipes to your tastes.
