Discover 27 Middle Eastern recipes that are ideal for enjoying with your family. They’re filled with the comforting flavors that define the region’s cooking.
This collection ranges from hearty stews to light, fresh salads. Every dish is designed to gather everyone around the table.
Incorporate the taste of the Middle East into your family’s meals. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for sharing and creating warm memories.
grilled chicken kofta kebab
Grilled chicken kofta kebab combines ground chicken with aromatic spices, grilled to perfection in about 20 minutes. The kebabs are juicy, with a hint of smokiness, and feature main ingredients like onion, parsley, and garlic. This dish offers a protein-rich option that’s both tender and flavorful. It’s a communal meal that invites sharing and is best enjoyed with family.
Get the Recipe: grilled chicken kofta kebab
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce is a nutritious meal ready in under an hour. The dish is a blend of fluffy quinoa, sweet roasted squash, and hearty chickpeas, all drizzled with a vibrant green tahini sauce. It tastes nutty with a garlicky kick, offering a satisfying vegetarian option. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of Middle Eastern flavors.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches
Orange Vegetable Tagine with Peaches is a sweet and savory stew that simmers for about an hour. Main ingredients like carrots, sweet potatoes, and peaches meld with Moroccan spices. The result is a comforting dish with a unique fruit twist, embodying the warmth of Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s a delightful way to enjoy seasonal produce with a touch of exotic flavor.
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Pomegranate chicken with walnuts
Pomegranate chicken with walnuts is a decadent dish that takes about an hour to prepare. The chicken is bathed in a rich sauce made from pomegranate molasses and ground walnuts, creating a balance of tart and earthy flavors. This recipe is a celebration of texture and taste, with tender chicken at its heart. It’s a family favorite that brings sweetness and nuttiness to the dinner table.
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Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant Tomato Stacks are a quick, 30-minute recipe featuring slices of eggplant and tomato. The dish is seasoned with Middle Eastern spices, offering a taste that’s both robust and fresh. This recipe highlights the simplicity of its main ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. It’s a lighter option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Tomato Stacks
Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka) is a hearty dish that takes about 45 minutes to cook. It’s a combination of roasted eggplant and poached eggs in a rich tomato sauce, spiced with cumin and paprika. This meal is known for its bold flavors and is a staple in Middle Eastern breakfasts. It brings a comforting and satisfying start to any family gathering.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant & Eggs (Shakshuka)
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps are a modern take on a classic, ready in just 25 minutes. They feature marinated chicken with a blend of shawarma spices, wrapped in a warm pita with fresh vegetables. The air fryer gives the chicken a delightful crispness while keeping it juicy inside. This recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful family meal on the go.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Shawarma Wraps
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade) is a refreshing drink that can be made in just 10 minutes. It combines fresh mint and lemon juice, resulting in a vibrant and thirst-quenching beverage. The taste is a perfect balance of tart and sweet with a minty freshness. It’s an ideal accompaniment to any Middle Eastern feast.
Get the Recipe: Middle Eastern Mint Limonana (Mint Lemonade)
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini is a creamy eggplant dip ready in 45 minutes. The eggplant is roasted to develop a deep smoky flavor, then blended with garlic and lemon. This version is unique as it omits tahini, making it lighter yet still indulgent. It’s a perfect spread for sharing with family over fresh bread or vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Smoky Baba Ghanoush without Tahini
Mujadara
Mujadara is a humble dish that takes about 40 minutes to prepare, featuring lentils and rice topped with caramelized onions. It has a comforting, earthy taste with a hint of sweetness from the onions. This dish is a staple in Middle Eastern homes, known for its simplicity and satisfying nature. It’s a budget-friendly meal that’s rich in protein and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mujadara
Homemade labneh cheese balls
Homemade labneh cheese balls take 24 hours to set but require minimal active preparation time. This recipe transforms yogurt into a thick and tangy cheese, rolled into balls and often coated with herbs or spices. Labneh is a versatile ingredient that adds a creamy texture and a tangy taste to any meal. It’s a delightful addition to the Middle Eastern family table.
Get the Recipe: Homemade labneh cheese balls
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma
Instant Pot Chicken Shawarma can be ready in just 30 minutes using a pressure cooker. This dish boasts tender chicken thighs coated in shawarma spices, delivering a fast and flavorful meal. The main ingredients, including yogurt and a variety of Middle Eastern spices, ensure a creamy and aromatic experience. It’s a convenient way to enjoy a classic with minimal effort.
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Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
The Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes is a filling option that takes about 45 minutes to make. It’s a flavorful combination of fried eggplant, boiled potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs, all stuffed into a pita. The sandwich is seasoned with tahini and amba, offering a taste that’s both tangy and savory. It’s a popular street food that has found its way into the heart of family kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Sabich Sandwich Recipe with Eggplant and Potatoes
Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Moroccan pearl couscous salad is a light dish ready in under 30 minutes. It features pearl couscous mixed with fresh herbs, nuts, and dried fruit, dressed in a lemony vinaigrette. The salad has a delightful mix of textures and a sweet, nutty flavor profile. It’s a perfect side dish for family gatherings, offering a refreshing contrast to richer meals.
Get the Recipe: Moroccan pearl couscous salad
Spiced Grilled Corn
Spiced Grilled Corn is a simple yet flavorful side that takes about 15 minutes to grill. The corn is brushed with a blend of Middle Eastern spices and grilled until charred. This recipe gives the corn a smoky taste with a spicy kick, making it irresistible. It’s an excellent addition to any family barbecue or outdoor meal.
Get the Recipe: Spiced Grilled Corn
Sweet Potato Hummus
Sweet Potato Hummus is a creative twist on the classic, ready in about 40 minutes. It combines roasted sweet potatoes with chickpeas and tahini, creating a smooth and slightly sweet dip. This hummus is not only colorful but also offers a rich, creamy taste. It’s a healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for sharing.
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Kid-friendly beet hummus
Kid-friendly beet hummus is ready in just 15 minutes and is a vibrant and nutritious option. It blends the earthy flavor of beets with the traditional ingredients of hummus, resulting in a bright pink spread that’s both appealing and tasty. This hummus is a great way to introduce children to new flavors while enjoying a healthy snack. It’s a fun and playful addition to any family meal.
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Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
The Classic mushroom bourekas recipe takes about an hour to create flaky pastries filled with a savory mushroom mixture. The main ingredients include mushrooms, onions, and cheese, encased in puff pastry. These bourekas have a rich, umami flavor with a satisfyingly crisp exterior. They are perfect for gatherings, as they are easy to share and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Classic mushroom bourekas recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic are ready in just 20 minutes. The sprouts are air-fried until crispy, then topped with tangy feta, sweet pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. This dish offers a burst of flavors and textures, making it a deliciously unique side. It’s a quick and easy way to elevate the family dinner experience with a touch of sophistication.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts with Feta, Pomegranate and Balsamic
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus
Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus can be made in about 10 minutes, offering a quick and flavorful spread. It’s a blend of chickpeas, fresh garlic, and tahini, resulting in a creamy and garlicky dip. This hummus is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and pairs well with any meal or snack. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings families together over shared plates.
Get the Recipe: Irresistibly smooth garlic hummus
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese is a versatile dish that can be ready in just 15 minutes. The cheese is known for its ability to hold its shape when cooked, offering a unique chewy texture. It has a salty flavor that can be enhanced with a squeeze of lemon. This cheese is perfect for adding a protein-rich element to salads or serving as a stand-alone snack.
Get the Recipe: Grilled and Fried Halloumi Cheese
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus
Crispy Ottolenghi’s Air Fryer Asparagus takes about 15 minutes to make, featuring asparagus with a crunchy coating. Inspired by chef Yotam Ottolenghi, this dish is seasoned with Middle Eastern spices for an extra flavor kick. The asparagus emerges from the air fryer with a satisfying crispness. It’s an innovative side dish that’s both healthy and delicious, ideal for family dinners.
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Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich is a wholesome meal that’s ready in approximately 45 minutes. It consists of seasoned turkey kofta tucked into pita bread with fresh vegetables and sauces. The kofta is juicy and flavorful, making the sandwich a hearty and satisfying option. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s both easy to make and enjoyable to eat.
Get the Recipe: Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Roasted bell pepper salad
Roasted bell pepper salad is a colorful dish that takes about 30 minutes to prepare. It features sweet roasted bell peppers dressed in olive oil and garlic. The salad has a smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness and a fresh, crisp texture. It’s a light and healthy side that complements any Middle Eastern spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted bell pepper salad
Tahini Sauce
Tahini Sauce is a versatile condiment that can be prepared in just 5 minutes. It’s made from tahini paste, lemon juice, and garlic, creating a creamy and tangy sauce. Tahini sauce is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, known for its rich flavor and smooth consistency. It’s an essential addition to dishes like falafel, salads, and grilled meats.
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Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe is a plant-based alternative that’s ready in about 40 minutes. Made with a blend of vegetables and spices, these kebabs are grilled until charred and flavorful. They offer a meaty texture without the meat, making them a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe is a testament to the inclusivity of Middle Eastern cuisine, catering to diverse dietary preferences.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Kofta Kebabs Recipe
Fish with pomegranate sauce
Fish with pomegranate sauce is an elegant main course that takes about 30 minutes to cook. The fish is seasoned and cooked until flaky, then topped with a sweet and tangy pomegranate sauce. This dish is a beautiful balance of flavors, with the pomegranate adding a fruity depth to the delicate fish. It’s a festive recipe that’s sure to impress at any family gathering.
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