Name: Middle Eastern Salad Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cucumber, diced; ½ red onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup canned chickpeas or cooked lentils, drained and rinsed; 4 falafel balls or 1 cup grilled chicken/lamb, sliced; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; ¼ cup fresh mint, chopped; ¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced; ¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (optional); ½ cup pita chips or toasted pita bread, broken into pieces; 3 tbsp lemon juice; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp tahini; 1 garlic clove, minced; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

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Short Description

A Middle Eastern Salad Bowl is a vibrant, nutrient-rich dish that combines fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and bold flavors with protein-packed elements such as chickpeas, falafel, or grilled meats. Topped with a tangy dressing, this salad is a wholesome and satisfying meal that showcases the best of Middle Eastern cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with fresh vegetables, fiber, and protein, this salad offers a balanced and nutritious meal.
Bursting with Flavor – A combination of aromatic spices, zesty dressings, and fresh herbs creates a flavor-packed experience.
Customizable – Easily adaptable to different dietary preferences, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Quick and Easy – Simple to prepare with minimal cooking required.
Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for several days, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

Mixed greens or romaine lettuce
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumber
Red onion
Chickpeas or cooked lentils
Falafel or grilled chicken/lamb
Fresh parsley and mint
Kalamata olives
Feta cheese (optional)
Pita chips or toasted pita bread
Lemon juice
Olive oil
Tahini
Garlic
Ground cumin
Paprika
Salt and pepper

Directions

Prepare the Base – Wash and chop the mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Arrange them in a large bowl as the salad base.
Add Protein – Drain and rinse chickpeas or lentils, then add them to the salad. If using falafel or grilled meat, prepare them accordingly and place them on top.
Incorporate Herbs and Cheese – Finely chop fresh parsley and mint, then sprinkle over the salad. If using feta cheese, crumble it over the top.
Include Olives and Pita Chips – Scatter Kalamata olives across the salad and add pita chips for a crunchy texture.
Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, tahini, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assemble and Serve – Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve immediately.

Variations

Vegan Option – Skip the feta cheese and use hummus as an extra topping.
Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pita chips or omit them entirely.
Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of harissa to the dressing.
Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle toasted almonds or pine nuts for added texture.
Grain Addition – Include cooked quinoa or bulgur for extra heartiness.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (if preparing falafel or grilled meat)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2-4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Dressing Storage: Keep the dressing separate in a sealed jar and shake before use.
Reheating Protein: If using grilled meat, reheat separately in a pan or microwave before serving.

FAQs

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

Chop all vegetables and store them separately. Prepare the dressing and keep it refrigerated. Assemble just before serving.

Can I use canned chickpeas?

Yes! Drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the salad.

What’s a good substitute for tahini?

You can use Greek yogurt, almond butter, or hummus as an alternative.

Can I make this salad without olives?

Absolutely! Simply omit the olives or replace them with capers for a briny touch.

Is this salad keto-friendly?

Without pita chips and chickpeas, this salad is low-carb and suitable for a keto diet.

Can I use store-bought dressing?

Yes, but homemade dressing enhances the authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

What protein works best with this salad?

Falafel, grilled chicken, lamb, shrimp, or even tofu work great.

Can I add a yogurt-based dressing?

Definitely! A simple blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs makes a great dressing alternative.

How can I make this salad more filling?

Add cooked grains like quinoa or serve with a side of hummus and pita.

Can I pack this salad for lunch?

Yes! Keep the dressing separate and add it just before eating to keep the ingredients fresh.

Conclusion

A Middle Eastern Salad Bowl is a fresh, healthy, and delicious meal that is easy to make and packed with bold flavors. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this dish offers endless customization options to suit various dietary preferences. Try it today and savor the vibrant tastes of Middle Eastern cuisine!

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