In the culinary tapestry of the Middle East, a vibrant array of salads takes center stage, each boasting a unique blend of flavors, textures, and colors. From the refreshing and tangy Lebanese fattoush to the hearty and robust Israeli chopped salad, these dishes are a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. With an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and a harmonious balance of herbs, spices, and acidity, these salads are not just side dishes; they are vibrant expressions of culinary artistry. This article presents a curated collection of the best Middle Eastern salad dressings, each capturing the essence of a specific salad while offering endless possibilities for customization. From the lemony and garlicky dressing that brings fattoush to life to the tahini-based dressing that adds a creamy richness to Israeli chopped salad, these recipes are sure to elevate your salad game and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of the Middle East.
Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!
MIDDLE EASTERN VEGETABLE SALAD
Provided by Ina Garten
Time 15m
Yield 4 to 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 13
Steps:
- Place the scallions, tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, parsley, mint, and basil in a large salad bowl and toss to combine.
- In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the lemon juice, garlic, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil to make an emulsion. Pour the dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat all the vegetables. Add the feta, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss gently. Serve the salad with the toasted pita bread.
BEST MIDDLE EASTERN SALAD DRESSING
Provided by Rebecca Lindamood
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Peel and roughly chop the garlic cloves. Sprinkle the salt over the garlic and use the broad side of your knife alternately to squash the garlic and chop the garlic until a thick paste forms. Add that to a half pint sized mason jar along with the remaining dressing ingredients. Screw the lid tightly in place, and shake hard. Refrigerate until ready to dress your salad.
MIDDLE EASTERN PITA SALAD (FATTOUSH SALAD) RECIPE BY TASTY
Here's what you need: small pita rounds, olive oil, salt, romaine lettuce, medium cucumber, cherry tomato, scallions, radish, red bell pepper, fresh parsley, fresh mint, lemons, white wine vinegar, garlic, ground sumac, allspice, pepper
Provided by Gwenaelle Le Cochennec
Categories Sides
Yield 6 servings
Number Of Ingredients 17
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Slice the pitas in half to make 4 thin rounds. Place the pitas on a nonstick sheet pan. Brush with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season with salt.
- Bake for about 5 minutes, until the outside is golden brown. Let cool until they become crispy.
- Make 3 cuts lengthwise on each of the romaine hearts, remove the stems, and chop into smaller pieces. Rinse, drain, and add to a large salad bowl.
- Seed the cucumber, dice it, and add it to the salad bowl.
- Cut the tomatoes in half and add them to the salad bowl.
- Mince the scallions and add them to the salad bowl.
- Add the radishes, bell pepper, parsley, and mint to the salad bowl and toss to combine.
- In a liquid measuring cup or small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup (120 ml) of oil, the lemon juice, white wine vinegar, garlic, sumac, allspice, salt, and pepper and whisk until well-combined.
- Pour the dressing over the salad.
- Break the crispy pitas into small pieces and add to the salad. Toss well.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 266 calories, Carbohydrate 23 grams, Fat 18 grams, Fiber 5 grams, Protein 4 grams, Sugar 6 grams
MIDDLE EASTERN SALAD WITH ZA'ATAR DRESSING
I have been making this salad for DH for a while now. The time listed does not include the refrigerating time.
Provided by FDADELKARIM
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 10m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 12
Steps:
- Mix all the ingredients together for the dressing in a small glass bowl.
- Mix the vegetables together in a larger bowl. (I cut the artichokes hearts in half before adding them to the salad).
- Pour the dressing over the salad. Stir to coat then refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 567.6, Fat 29.8, SaturatedFat 4.1, Sodium 1014.1, Carbohydrate 65.3, Fiber 15.7, Sugar 4.8, Protein 14.9
LEBANESE LEMON SALAD DRESSING
Tangy, zesty, garlicky lemon and olive oil flavors blend in this dressing that compliments salads which include some type of grilled meat and baked or fried pita chips in the place of croutons. This dressing is best with salads containing grilled chicken, shrimp or fish. It is very tangy but absolutely yummy.
Provided by Laura
Categories Side Dish Sauces and Condiments Recipes Salad Dressing Recipes Fruit Dressing Recipes
Time 20m
Yield 6
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir just before serving.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 175.7 calories, Carbohydrate 2.4 g, Fat 18.7 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 0.2 g, SaturatedFat 2.6 g, Sodium 320.5 mg, Sugar 0.5 g
Tips:
- Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest ingredients possible for the best flavor. Look for ripe vegetables, herbs, and spices.
- Quality Olive Oil: Use a high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. This will make a big difference in the taste of the dressing.
- Balance the Flavors: The dressing should be a balance of sweet, sour, and salty. Adjust the amounts of each ingredient to suit your taste.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Allow the dressing to sit for at least 30 minutes before using. This will allow the flavors to meld and develop.
- Store Properly: Store the dressing in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Conclusion:
Middle Eastern salad dressings are a delicious and versatile addition to any salad. They are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a dressing that will add flavor and interest to your salads. These dressings are also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and herbs. So next time you have some extra produce, try making a Middle Eastern salad dressing. You won't be disappointed!
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