Middle Eastern food is full of bold spices, fresh ingredients, and simple cooking methods. These 17 recipes are easy to make at home and bring a big flavor without complicated steps. Whether you want a quick dip, a hearty main dish, or a light salad, there’s something for every meal. With the right ingredients, homemade Middle Eastern dishes can be just as good as restaurant versions.
Middle Eastern Spiced Butternut Squash Pickles
Butternut squash pickles flavored with warm Middle Eastern spices and vinegar for a tangy, slightly sweet bite. The mix of squash, cumin, coriander, and garlic creates a bold, spiced flavor. This dish takes about 45 minutes to prepare and can be stored for later. The combination of sweet and sour makes it a unique addition to any meal.
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Instant Pot Chicken With Sweet Peppers
Tender chicken cooked with sweet peppers, onions, and Middle Eastern spices for a flavorful, one-pot meal. The mix of garlic, turmeric, and cumin gives the dish a warm, savory taste. This recipe takes about 40 minutes using an Instant Pot for quick cooking. The juicy chicken and peppers make it a comforting, hearty dish.
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Jerusalem Kugel
A traditional noodle kugel made with caramelized sugar, black pepper, and oil for a mix of sweet and savory flavors. The caramel coats the noodles, giving them a rich, golden color and deep flavor. This dish takes about an hour to make and has a slightly chewy texture. The balance of sweetness and spice makes it a unique side dish.
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Circassian Fried Cheese With A Middle-Eastern Field Salad
Crispy fried cheese served with a fresh field salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and herbs. The cheese has a golden crust with a warm, melty center, while the salad adds a bright, crisp contrast. This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and works well as an appetizer or side. The combination of crunchy, creamy, and fresh flavors makes it satisfying.
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Israeli Salad
A simple, refreshing salad made with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, onions, and parsley tossed in olive oil and lemon juice. The vegetables are finely chopped for a crisp texture with every bite. This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and pairs well with grilled meats or pita. The fresh ingredients make it a light, flavorful side.
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Eggplant Shakshuka
A rich tomato-based dish with soft-cooked eggs and sautéed eggplant for added depth and texture. The mix of garlic, cumin, and paprika gives it a smoky, slightly spicy taste. This dish takes about 40 minutes to prepare and works well for breakfast or dinner. The combination of hearty sauce and creamy egg yolks makes it comforting.
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Green Shakshuka
A lighter version of shakshuka is made with spinach, leeks, and fresh herbs instead of tomatoes. The eggs are poached in the green sauce, creating a creamy, herb-infused dish. This recipe takes about 35 minutes and has a fresh, slightly garlicky flavor. The blend of greens and eggs makes it a nutritious and filling meal.
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Lebanese Baba Ganoush Recipe
A creamy roasted eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice for a smoky, tangy flavor. The eggplant is charred before blending, adding depth to the smooth texture. This dish takes about 45 minutes to prepare and pairs well with warm pita or vegetables. The rich, nutty taste makes it a great dip or spread.
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Zaalouk Roasted Eggplant Dip
A Moroccan-style roasted eggplant dip made with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. The eggplant is mashed and simmered with spices for a smooth, slightly chunky texture. This dish takes about 50 minutes and has a deep, smoky, and mildly spiced flavor. The combination of roasted vegetables and warm spices makes it a flavorful appetizer.
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Pomegranate Chicken With Walnuts
Juicy chicken cooked in a pomegranate and walnut sauce for a rich, slightly sweet dish. The mix of ground walnuts, pomegranate molasses, and spices creates a thick, tangy sauce. This dish takes about an hour to prepare and pairs well with rice. The contrast of tart and nutty flavors makes it a standout meal.
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Middle Eastern Spiced Cauliflower Soup With Caramelized Onions And Raisins
A creamy cauliflower soup infused with warm Middle Eastern spices and topped with sweet caramelized onions and raisins. The combination of cinnamon, cumin, and nutmeg gives it a slightly sweet and savory taste. This soup takes about 45 minutes to make and has a velvety texture. The contrast of smooth soup and crunchy toppings adds depth.
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Middle Eastern Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots seasoned with cumin, coriander, and olive oil for a caramelized, slightly spiced flavor. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by slow roasting. This dish takes about 40 minutes to prepare and works well as a side dish. The warm spices bring out the depth of the roasted vegetables.
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Moroccan Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner
Baked salmon seasoned with Moroccan spices and served with roasted vegetables for an easy, flavorful meal. The blend of cumin, paprika, and cinnamon adds a warm, slightly smoky taste. This dish takes about 40 minutes and comes together on one sheet pan. The combination of tender salmon and spiced veggies makes it a complete meal.
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Moroccan Pearl Couscous Salad
A light, flavorful salad made with pearl couscous, fresh herbs, dried fruit, and a lemon dressing. The couscous absorbs the dressing, creating a slightly tangy, refreshing bite. This dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and pairs well with grilled meats. The balance of sweet, citrusy, and herby flavors makes it a great side.
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Hummus With Crispy Chickpeas
A smooth, homemade hummus topped with crispy, spiced chickpeas for extra texture. The blend of tahini, garlic, and lemon juice gives it a creamy, slightly nutty taste. This dish takes about 25 minutes to prepare and pairs well with pita or vegetables. The crispy chickpeas add a crunchy contrast to the smooth dip.
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Baked Turkey Kofta Pita Sandwich
Spiced ground turkey kofta baked until juicy, then served in a warm pita with fresh toppings. The mix of garlic, cumin, and coriander gives the kofta a bold, slightly smoky flavor. This dish takes about 40 minutes and makes a great handheld meal. The combination of tender meat and soft pita makes it easy to eat and satisfying.
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Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
Ground chicken mixed with Middle Eastern spices and grilled on skewers for a smoky, juicy bite. The combination of cumin, garlic, and herbs adds deep flavor without overpowering the meat. This dish takes about 35 minutes to prepare and works well with rice or flatbread. The slight char from grilling enhances the savory taste.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Kofta Kebab
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