Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes. However, many traditional meals are loaded with unhealthy fats and calories. Here are 5 delicious and healthy Middle Eastern recipes to satisfy your taste buds without compromising your health.
1. Falafel Salad
Falafel is a popular Middle Eastern food, but it's often fried and loaded with calories. Enter: falafel salad. This dish is a healthier twist on the classic falafel sandwich. To make it, mix cooked chickpeas, parsley, spices, and a little flour in a food processor to form the falafel balls. Bake them in the oven instead of frying for a healthier version. Serve them over a bed of mixed greens with a lemony tahini dressing.
2. Chicken Shawarma Bowl
This recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients like protein-rich chicken, fiber-filled chickpeas, and vegetables like tomatoes, cucumber, and bell peppers. Make your own shawarma seasoning using coriander, cumin, garlic, and paprika, and marinate the chicken breast overnight. Grill or roast the chicken, then assemble your bowl with brown rice or quinoa, the veggies, and a dollop of hummus or tzatziki.
3. Tabouli Salad
Tabouli is a traditional Lebanese salad made with parsley, tomatoes, onions, and bulgur wheat. This salad is high in fiber and antioxidants and is an excellent source of vitamin C. Mix the ingredients together and dress with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve chilled as a side dish or on top of a green salad for added nutrients.
4. Grilled Eggplant Dip
Baba Ganoush is a popular dip made from grilled eggplant, tahini, lemon juice, and olive oil. This version is lightened up by grilling the eggplant instead of frying it. Serve with whole-grain pita chips or fresh vegetables for a delicious and healthy snack.
5. Lentil Soup
This is a hearty and filling soup that's perfect for colder weather. The lentils are simmered with vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, and then flavored with Middle Eastern spices like cumin and coriander. The result is a nutritious and flavorful soup that's packed with protein and fiber. Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread for a complete meal.
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