Looking to add a touch of Middle Eastern flavor to your snack game? Then look no further! We’re excited to hear all about your quick and easy Middle Eastern snack recipe. Whether it’s a mouthwatering hummus dip, a crispy falafel sandwich, or a savory za’atar bread, we can’t wait to try out your delicious creation. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to share your culinary talents with fellow food enthusiasts. Your recipe might just become the next go-to snack for countless food lovers around the world!
Hummus Variations
Classic Hummus
Classic hummus is a staple Middle Eastern dip that is loved all around the world. Made from the perfect combination of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, it is a creamy and flavorful dip that can be enjoyed with pita bread, fresh vegetables, or as a spread in sandwiches.
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Add a twist to the classic hummus by incorporating the smoky flavor of roasted red peppers. The roasted red pepper hummus is prepared by blending chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and, of course, roasted red peppers. The result is a vibrant and delicious dip that adds a captivating burst of flavor to any meal.
Sun-dried Tomato Hummus
For those who enjoy a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, sun-dried tomato hummus is a fantastic choice. By blending sun-dried tomatoes with the traditional hummus ingredients, you get a dip that is both zesty and savory. It’s the ideal addition to any appetizer spread or as a dip for crunchy pita chips.
Kalamata Olive Hummus
Indulge in the rich and briny taste of kalamata olives with the kalamata olive hummus. This variation takes the classic hummus recipe and adds a generous amount of chopped kalamata olives, resulting in a dip that is full of bold flavors. Pair it with fresh vegetables or spread it on a sandwich for a delightful burst of Mediterranean goodness.
Dips and Spreads
Baba Ganoush
Baba Ganoush is a smoky and creamy eggplant dip that is perfect for dipping pita bread or fresh vegetables. This Middle Eastern favorite is made by roasting eggplants until they become tender and then mixing them with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and a touch of olive oil. The result is a dip that is velvety, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
Tzatziki Sauce
Cool and refreshing, tzatziki sauce is a classic Middle Eastern dip made from yogurt, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs such as dill or mint. This tangy and creamy sauce is perfect for dipping grilled meats, vegetables, or even as a spread in wraps and sandwiches. It adds a delightful burst of flavor to any dish it accompanies.
Labneh with Za’atar
Labneh, also known as strained yogurt, is a creamy and tangy spread that is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. When combined with the aromatic blend of herbs and spices called za’atar, it becomes a flavorful and versatile dip. Pair it with fresh vegetables, spread it on warm pita bread, or use it as a tangy sauce for grilled meats. The possibilities are endless with this delightful combination.
Muhammara
Muhammara is a fiery red dip that originates from Syria. It is made by blending roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, garlic, and a touch of spice. The result is a dip that is bursting with complex flavors and a hint of smokiness. It can be enjoyed with pita bread or used as a dip for fresh vegetables. The striking color and bold taste of Muhammara are sure to impress your guests.
Vegetable Snacks
Feta Stuffed Bell Peppers
For a quick and flavorful vegetable snack, try feta stuffed bell peppers. Simply halve bell peppers, remove the seeds, and fill them with a mixture of crumbled feta cheese, chopped herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil. Bake them until the peppers are tender and the cheese is golden and melty. These stuffed bell peppers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any appetizer spread.
Grilled Eggplant Rolls
Grilled eggplant rolls are a healthy and delicious snack that is sure to impress. Thinly slice eggplants lengthwise and grill them until they become tender and slightly charred. Spread a mixture of herbed ricotta cheese onto each slice, then roll them up and secure with toothpicks. Serve these tasty rolls as an appetizer or as a side dish to complement your main course.
Stuffed Grape Leaves
Stuffed grape leaves, also known as Dolmades, are a traditional Middle Eastern snack that is both savory and satisfying. These little rolls are made by rolling a mixture of rice, herbs, and spices inside blanched grape leaves. The result is a bite-sized treat that is bursting with flavor. Serve them as an appetizer or as part of a mezze platter.
Spiced Roasted Cauliflower
Roasted cauliflower is taken to the next level with a medley of aromatic spices. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes, then roast them in the oven until they become golden and crispy. This flavorful and healthy snack is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian option or a lighter alternative to fried snacks.
Savory Pastries
Spinach Fatayer
Spinach Fatayer is a Middle Eastern savory pastry that is filled with a delicious mixture of sautéed spinach, onions, herbs, and feta cheese. The dough is rolled out into small circles, filled with the spinach mixture, and then folded into a triangular shape. Baked until golden and flaky, these pastries are a tasty and satisfying snack.
Cheese Sambousek
Cheese sambousek is a delightful pastry filled with a mixture of cheese, herbs, and spices. The dough is rolled out, and small circles are cut. Each circle is filled with the cheese mixture, sealed, and then baked to perfection. These savory pastries are perfect for a quick snack or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Meat Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a classic Middle Eastern dish that consists of a crisp exterior made from ground meat (traditionally beef or lamb) mixed with cracked wheat, and a flavorful filling. The mixture is shaped into oval or torpedo-shaped dumplings and either fried or baked until golden. This traditional dish makes a delicious and hearty snack that is loved by many.
Za’atar Manakeesh
Manakeesh is a popular Middle Eastern flatbread topped with various ingredients, and za’atar is one of the most common toppings. Za’atar is a flavorful blend of dried herbs such as thyme, oregano, and sumac, mixed with toasted sesame seeds and salt. Sprinkling za’atar on the flatbread creates a simple yet flavorful snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Bread and Dips
Pita Bread with Hummus
Enjoy the perfect pairing of warm, fluffy pita bread with a generous scoop of classic hummus. Pita bread is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and is perfect for tearing apart and dipping into the creamy hummus. The combination of the soft bread with the smooth and flavorful dip creates a snack that is both satisfying and comforting.
Falafel Pita Pockets
Create a satisfying and nutritious snack by filling pita pockets with homemade falafel. These crispy and flavorful chickpea fritters are made from a mixture of ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Stuff them into a pita pocket along with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a delicious on-the-go snack.
Saj Bread with Labneh
Saj bread is a thin and chewy flatbread that is perfect for wrapping around a creamy and tangy labneh. Labneh is a strained yogurt that has a thick and rich consistency, similar to cream cheese. Spread a generous amount of labneh on the saj bread, top it with fresh herbs and vegetables, and roll it up for a simple and satisfying snack.
Hummus and Olive Oil
Sometimes, simplicity is key. Enjoy a bowl of classic hummus drizzled with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil for a quick and easy Middle Eastern snack. The creamy hummus paired with the rich and flavorful olive oil creates a combination that is both indulgent and healthy.
Meat Snacks
Chicken Shawarma Skewers
Marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection are a popular Middle Eastern snack. The chicken is marinated in a blend of spices, garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt to achieve a tender and flavorful result. Serve these delicious skewers with warm pita bread, fresh vegetables, and a side of tahini sauce for a satisfying and protein-packed snack.
Lamb Kofta
Lamb kofta is a mouthwatering snack made from ground lamb mixed with a variety of spices and herbs. These succulent lamb meatballs are either grilled or pan-fried until they are golden and perfectly cooked. Serve them with a side of yogurt sauce and warm pita bread for a snack that is both flavorful and satisfying.
Beef Sambusak
Sink your teeth into savory beef sambusak, a delightful Middle Eastern pastry filled with a seasoned ground beef mixture. The dough is rolled out into small circles, filled with the beef mixture, and either baked or fried to achieve a delicious and crispy snack. These beef sambusak are perfect for an appetizer or for a quick snack on the go.
Halal Snack Pack
Halal Snack Pack, also known as HSP, is a popular street food snack in Australia that consists of layers of hot chips topped with kebab meat, cheese, and a choice of sauces. This indulgent and flavorful snack combines various elements of Middle Eastern cuisine into one mouthwatering dish. Perfect for sharing with friends or as a hearty meal on its own.
Sweet Treats
Baklava
Baklava is a sweet and rich pastry that is made by layering thin sheets of phyllo dough with a mixture of ground nuts, sugar, and spices. The pastry is then baked until golden and crispy, and finally drizzled with a sweet syrup made from honey and lemon juice. This delightful treat is enjoyed across the Middle East and is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Basbousa
Basbousa is a moist and sweet semolina cake that is soaked in a sweet syrup flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water. This Middle Eastern dessert is often served with a sprinkle of shredded coconut or a scattering of ground pistachios. Basbousa is perfect for those who enjoy a dessert with a delicate and aromatic flavor.
Kunafa
Kunafa is a beloved Middle Eastern dessert that consists of a layer of shredded phyllo dough filled with a mixture of sweetened cheese or semolina, and soaked in a sweet rosewater syrup. The dessert is then baked until the top becomes golden and crispy. The combination of the crunchy exterior and the gooey, sweet filling makes Kunafa a truly irresistible treat.
Date Balls
Date balls are a simple and healthy sweet treat made from dates, nuts, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. These little energy bites are packed with natural sweetness, fiber, and nutrients, making them the perfect guilt-free snack. Roll them in coconut flakes or sprinkles for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.
Fried Snacks
Falafel
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern snack made from ground chickpeas or fava beans mixed with herbs, spices, and onion. The mixture is formed into small balls or patties and then deep-fried until crispy and golden. These flavorful and crunchy bites are perfect for dipping into tahini sauce or enjoying in a warm pita bread sandwich.
Sambousek
Sambousek is a delicious and crispy fried pastry that is usually stuffed with a flavorful filling. The most common fillings include spiced ground meat, cheese, or a combination of vegetables. These fried pastries make a great snack or appetizer and are loved for their crispy exterior and savory filling.
Kibbeh
Kibbeh is a savory fried snack made from a bulgur wheat and ground meat mixture, typically beef or lamb. The mixture is kneaded until it becomes smooth and then shaped into balls or patties. These delightful snacks are then deep-fried until they are crispy and golden. Kibbeh is enjoyed on its own or served with a side of yogurt sauce or tahini.
Fried Halloumi Cheese
Fried halloumi cheese is a simple yet indulgent snack that is loved for its crispy exterior and gooey, salty interior. Halloumi cheese is perfect for frying because it holds its shape and becomes beautifully golden and caramelized when cooked. Enjoy these fried cheesy bites on their own or as part of a mezze platter.
Salads and Sides
Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a refreshing and vibrant salad made from a mixture of finely chopped fresh herbs, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy dressing made from lemon juice and olive oil. This light and flavorful salad can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish to complement a main course.
Fattoush
Fattoush is a colorful and textured salad that is bursting with flavor. It typically consists of a mixture of fresh vegetables, such as lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes, tossed with toasted pita bread and a zesty dressing made from lemon juice, olive oil, and sumac. The addition of sumac adds a tangy and slightly sour note to the salad, making it truly unique and refreshing.
Hummus with Meat Topping
Elevate your classic hummus by adding a delicious meat topping. Ground seasoned beef or lamb, cooked with onions and spices, is a popular choice. The meat topping adds an extra layer of flavor and protein to the creamy hummus, making it a more substantial and satisfying dish. Serve it with warm pita bread or fresh vegetables for a complete and hearty meal.
Arabic Pickles
Arabic pickles are a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine and are the perfect accompaniment to many dishes. These pickles are made by preserving vegetables such as cucumbers, peppers, and cauliflower in a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and a blend of aromatic spices. The result is a tangy and crunchy pickle that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
Beverages
Mint Lemonade
Mint lemonade is a refreshing and invigorating drink that is perfect for hot summer days. This thirst-quenching beverage is made by combining freshly squeezed lemon juice, mint leaves, sugar, and sparkling water. Serve it over ice for a cool and revitalizing drink that is loved by both kids and adults alike.
Turkish Tea
Turkish tea is a beloved drink in the Middle East that is enjoyed throughout the day. This strong and aromatic black tea is traditionally brewed in a special double-decker teapot called a “çaydanlık”. The tea is brewed in the top pot while water boils in the bottom pot. The result is a rich, dark tea that is sipped piping hot and usually enjoyed with a cube of sugar or a squeeze of lemon.
Arabic Coffee
Arabic coffee, also known as “qahwa”, is a fragrant and spiced coffee that is an integral part of Middle Eastern hospitality. This coffee is made by gently roasting green coffee beans, then grinding them and brewing the coffee with a touch of cardamom and optionally saffron or other spices. The coffee is often sweetened with a sprinkle of sugar and served in small cups called “finjans”.
Tamarind Juice
Tamarind juice is a sweet and tangy drink made from the pulp of the tamarind fruit. The pulp is soaked in water, strained, and sweetened with sugar or honey to create a refreshing and flavorful beverage. Tamarind juice is loved for its unique combination of sweet and sour flavors, making it a favorite drink in many Middle Eastern countries.
In conclusion, Middle Eastern cuisine offers a tantalizing array of snacks and beverages that are sure to delight your taste buds. From the creamy and flavorful hummus variations to the savory pastries and refreshing beverages, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy recipes or unique and indulgent treats, Middle Eastern snacks are a fantastic choice. So, gather your ingredients and start exploring the delicious world of Middle Eastern flavors in your own kitchen. Happy snacking!
