You can use 1/4 tsp (1 mL) zahtar instead of cumin. Zahtar is a spice mixture available in Middle Eastern stores. Or make your own: mix 1 tbsp (15 mL) toasted sesame seeds, 1-1/2 tsp (7 mL) each ground sumac and dried thyme, and 1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground cumin.
This summery grilled Middle Eastern–inspired salad gets delicious nuttiness from the tahini and pistachios.
Inspired by falafels, these croquettes can also be served in a pita garnished with lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber.
Tahini — a light ivory-colour pure sesame paste — gives these crisp chickpea balls authentic Middle Eastern flavour.
This is a vegetarian take on a traditional Greek and Turkish finger food. Grape leaves are available at Middle Eastern, Greek, Italian and most supermarkets.
Panko (Japanese bread crumbs) gives squash wedges a delicious crispy coating. This versatile side dish also makes the perfect vegetarian main course to serve with a green salad.
This is absolutely my favourite shake. It's protein and energy rich and tastes like Chocolate shake but there is no added sugar at all.
Serving these super-size falafel in lettuce leaves makes them extra-light (and gluten-free!), but if you don't mind the extra calories, use pitas or hamburger buns. Customize the toppings to your taste—sprouts, thinly sliced red onion and pickled turnip are all great options.