Tag: Middle Eastern
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Za'atar Spiked Labneh with Flatbread

Za'atar (or zahtar or zatar) is an earthy Middle Eastern spice blend that can contain a variety of different ingredients such as toasted sesame seeds, marjoram, thyme, cumin, oregano, sumac and sea salt. Each country has its own unique style of za'atar, and each family develops their own mix. Traditionally, it is sprinkled on labneh (yogurt cheese) with olive oil and served with warm bread. It's also mixed into bread dough and baked. Za'atar makes a zesty crust for white fish and meats as well as a delicious vegetable or lentil seasoning. It can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Start sprinkling to explore your favorite ways to enjoy it.
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Gluten-Free Tabbouleh

Sandra sent us a recipe for her family's tabbouleh which uses quinoa instead of the traditional bulgur for a gluten-free version. She notes "We are of Lebanese-descent, and my mother found out that she had Celiac Decease about 10 years ago. This tabbouleh recipe is preferred by all of us to the bulgur wheat variety! Pretty strong endorsement from a Lebanese family!" This flavorful salad can stand alone as a vegetarian main dish, thanks to quinoa's protein content, or be served as a side dish or sandwich filling.
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Baba Ghanouj

Baba ghanouj, also called baba ghanoush, is a savory purée of eggplant flavored with tahini, lemon juice and fresh herbs. Eat it with wedges of whole wheat pita bread for dipping or spoon it over roasted meats and vegetables.
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Eggplant Caviar

If you like things spicy, stir in a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the other ingredients. This bright dish makes the perfect salad or salsa for eating with crackers, pita wedges or chips.
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Roasted Whole Garlic

Roasting mellows garlic and gives it a creamy, spreadable consistency. Use as a garnish when serving your turkey or as an appetizer with small butter knives for spreading on bread or toast.
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Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Hummus

This variation on traditional hummus will add vibrant color and flavor to your holiday table. Rather than using chickpeas, this dip features lentils and sweet potatoes cooked with onion, garlic and spices, then puréed and seasoned with white miso and lemon juice. Enjoy with triangles of warm pita bread or raw vegetables for dipping.
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Simply Delicious Homemade Hummus

This homemade hummus makes an absolutely delicious dip, perfect for entertaining or a snack. Pair with lightly toasted pita bread, crisp veggies, feta cheese, stuffed grape leaves and a selection of olives. Cannellini or Great Northern beans can be substituted for the garbanzo beans.
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Spiced Red Pepper Dip with Pomegranate Molasses

This dip, an alternative to hummus, is also called Muhammara and it's a delicious Syrian recipe for a spread of roasted red peppers, toasted walnuts and a touch of spice, offset by pomegranate molasses. Serve with a basket of pita chips, spread on sandwiches for a picnic, or pair with grilled chicken or fish.
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Chickpea Soup with Saffron and Mushroom-Almond Garnish

This soup offers a bevy of complementary flavors and textures: buttery fingerling potatoes, crunchy almonds, tender chickpeas, vibrant parsley and earthy mushrooms.
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Chickpea and Artichoke Heart Salad on Wilted Arugula

Visually appealing and nutritionally satisfying, this cumin-scented salad of artichoke hearts, arugula, chickpeas, feta cheese and pine nuts is a perfect accompaniment for a variety of fall meals. The heat from the warm roasted garlic vinaigrette gently wilts the arugula. While chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are perfect for this recipe, Great Northern, Cannellini or even Lima beans are good substitutes. Use your choice of canned or cooked dry beans.



