Comfort food doesnât get better than this traditional Greek moussaka recipe with layers of tender roasted eggplant, a rich sauce made with ground lamb or beef, and a creamy bechamel topping. Get all my tips for how to make moussaka perfectly every time. Today weâre talking moussaka, a sublime Greek casserole with layers of tender eggplant, a flavorful meat sauce, and topped with creamy bechamel. Itâs rich, decadent and seasoned with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, oregano and paprika. Even though Greek moussaka is not difficult to make, it is a bit time consuming. The good news is, with a little planning, you can prepare it ahead of time and moussaka is one of those dishes where the flavors only get better with time. Itâs an excellent make-head option for a weekend gathering or holiday meal. If youâve been looking for a comfort food recipe that friends and family will request on repeat, moussaka is the recipe to wow them. Table of Contents
What is moussaka?The epitome of Greek comfort food, moussaka (pronounced moo-sa-kaâa) is a hearty eggplant casserole with a flavor-packed meat sauce, and finished with a topping of rich creamy bechamel sauce. Ingredients to make moussakaA classic Greek moussaka recipe has three key components: sliced eggplant, the meat sauce, and the bechamel sauce. Here are the ingredients you need to make each of the layers: For the eggplant layer
For the meat sauce layer
For the bechamel sauce layer
How to prepare eggplant for moussaka?If I had to choose a favorite vegetable, itâd probably be eggplant. Whether Iâm roasting it to tender perfection, making an easy baba ganoush, or layering it with meat sauce and bechamel, like in todayâs moussaka recipe, I can always rely on my trusty eggplant to deliver on flavor. Because eggplant is one of the main ingredients in this recipe, preparing it properly is important. Here are some tips for how to prep eggplant for moussaka:
Should you salt eggplant for moussaka?This is a hotly debated topic among cooks, and many do not believe you need to salt eggplant. But there are two reasons I believe salting the eggplant helps:
To salt the eggplant, simply sprinkle salt onto the slices and allow it to sit for 30 minutes. Then, pat the eggplant dry to remove excess salt and moisture. Potatoes: Yea or nay?Yes, you can use potato instead of eggplant in moussaka, or use them both! I have seen recipes where eggplant is omitted completely in favor of sliced potatoes, or potatoes and eggplant are both used for layering. Opt for starchy potatoes like russet or Idaho potatoes and do the following:
What is moussaka meat sauce?The rich, thick meat sauce in this moussaka recipe is sure to be a hit in your home! I use ground lamb because it is such a flavorful type of meat, but beef would be a good substitute, and would still yield decadent results. The ground lamb is spiced with warming cinnamon, nutmeg, paprika, pepper, and dried oregano. For some delicious umami, I add a generous amount of canned tomatoes followed by wine and beef broth â both powerhouses of flavor! A teaspoon of sugar helps to mellow the acidity but maintains the different levels of flavor in this classic moussaka recipe. Greek bechamel sauce!French bechamel sauce (or white sauce) is made with butter, flour, and milk. The result is a gorgeous creamy sauce, thick but still slightly runny. Greek bechamel or besamel (beh-sah-mel), which is what is used in moussaka contains eggs, which, when baked, results in a sauce that sets firmly. So when you cut your moussaka into slices for serving, the bechamel sauce shouldn't run. How to make moussaka
What to serve with moussakaMoussaka is a complete meal, but if you want to serve it with something light and fresh a simple side salad would do. Make ahead tips for moussakaEggplant moussaka is not a difficult dish to make, but it is time consuming. You can save time by making the components in advance. Here are some tips for preparing moussaka in advance:
Not a meat eater? Try vegetarian moussakaMy vegetarian moussaka recipe is as hearty as this one, with just a couple of key differences. I replaced the meat sauce with an equally delicious lentil sauce and I added layers of potatoes and zucchini for bulk. How to store and reheat leftoversEggplant moussaka will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, transfer the moussaka into an oven-safe dish and place on the center rack of an oven heated to 350°F for about 25 to 30 minutes. Can you freeze eggplant moussaka?You can freeze eggplant moussaka, either whole or in individual servings! To freeze an entire cooked moussaka: Allow it to cool before covering it snugly with plastic wrap and then wrapping it in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to remove the plastic wrap before reheating. To freeze individual servings of moussaka:
More comforting eggplant recipes to tryBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Try my favorite all-natural spices! Browse The Mediterranean Dish spice collection! All the spices you need to give your recipes a bold Mediterranean twist! Use our paprika and nutmeg in your next Greek Moussaka! Moussaka: Eggplant Casserole
Greek Moussaka is an eggplant casserole with layers of roasted eggplant and spiced meat sauce, topped with creamy bechamel sauce. Once baked, be sure to allow the moussaka a few minutes to rest before cutting through, the casserole needs to settle so it does not fall apart when you slice into it. More tips in the post and recipe notes.
Course Entree
Cuisine Greek
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 12 pieces
Calories 309.9kcal
Author The Mediterranean Dish
Ingredients
For the meat sauceFor the bechamel
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 309.9kcal | Carbohydrates: 19.4g | Protein: 12.3g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 6.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10.5g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 61.2mg | Sodium: 259.4mg | Potassium: 510.7mg | Fiber: 3.5g | Vitamin A: 225.7IU | Vitamin C: 5.6mg | Calcium: 141mg | Iron: 2mg
*This post has been recently updated with new information for readers' benefit. The post Greek Moussaka Recipe: Eggplant Casserole appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/moussaka-recipe-eggplant-casserole/
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Lemon chicken orzo soup is healthy, budget-friendly and uses everyday pantry ingredientsâlemon, chicken, orzo, broth, and veggies. That's it! Think of it as the soup version of a warm hug! Cold nights require a big steaming pot of warm soup in my house and this Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe is quickly becoming a new favorite. It's easy to make, requires pantry staples like oregano, orzo pasta, and vegetables you probably already have on hand. Plus it keeps well and freezes beautifully. What's not to love?! I'm telling you guys, it's right up there with my turmeric lemon chicken soup or my Avgolemono, a silky greek chicken soup also made with lemon. I'm sensing a theme here! Table of ContentsIngredients for lemon chicken orzo soupGather up your favorite vegetables, a few spices from your pantry, and some boneless skinless chicken breasts. Before you know it a warm, soothing pot of lemony chicken soup with orzo will be ready and waiting for you!
How to make lemon chicken orzo soupSoup is such a great one-pot meal. Plus it's easy to double so you have extra on hand for healthy work lunches, or for busy weeknights. Learning how to make lemon chicken orzo soup isn't much different from other chicken soup recipes. Chop and saute your veggies, add the chicken, stock and orzo, then finish it with herbs, and lemon. Pair it with your favorite bread (I'm partial to Rosemary Focaccia with Roasted Garlic, but really any good crusty bread will do.)
Make it a soup-n-salad situation!With the orzo, chicken, and vegetables, this soup is filling enough to stand on its own, but if you're feeding a crowd or just enjoy variety pair this lemony chicken orzo soup with a side. A salad is always a welcome addition with soups at my house and since all the following salads are quick to prepare, you can throw them together while the soup is bubbling away on the stove.
Make ahead tipsThis Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup recipe is perfect for meal prep! It's easy to make a double batch and reheat throughout the week or freeze and save for a later date. How to store leftoversStore leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The orzo will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you will likely need to add some broth when you warm it up. To reheat lemon chicken orzo soup, simply add it to a saucepan (with more broth or water) and turn the heat up to medium. More easy soup recipes (45 minutes or less!)Browse all Mediterranean recipes. Try my favorite turmeric! The Mediterranean Dish Organic Ground Turmeric Our magical organic turmeric provides depth and earthiness that will bring this soup to life. Try it today! Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup
Warm your belly with this light and cozy lemon chicken orzo soup. With plenty of heft from vegetables, and so much flavor from spices like Aleppo pepper and turmeric, this is one of those soups that tastes complex, but is a breeze to whip up any night of the week. It only takes about 30 minutes!
Course Entree, Soup
Cuisine Mediterranean
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 267.4kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 267.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 31.9g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 4.6g | Saturated Fat: 1.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.9g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.6g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 53.2mg | Sodium: 442.9mg | Potassium: 754.1mg | Fiber: 4.6g | Sugar: 7.3g | Vitamin A: 4145.5IU | Vitamin C: 40.5mg | Calcium: 65.8mg | Iron: 2.3mg
The post Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/lemon-chicken-orzo-soup/ Looking for a healthy, flavor-packed snack? These crispy roasted chickpeas are easy to make and ready in about 30 minutes. I season mine with a zesty combination of harissa, sumac, and zaâatar for a Mediterranean flair, but you can season roasted chickpeas in endless ways and Iâm here to show you how! If you're after a crispy, savory, flavor-packed snack, roasted chickpeas are the recipe for you! With just 3 basic ingredients â chickpeas, extra virgin olive oil, and salt â this crispy chickpea recipe is endlessly adaptable, nutritious, and filling. Itâs one of my favorite Mediterranean diet-friendly snacks, right up there with homemade popcorn. I kind of love chickpeas and Iâve been eating them since I was child in hummus, falafel and even chickpea soup. Both dried chickpeas that have been soaked in water and canned chickpeas will work for this recipe, making them a budget-friendly snack. Table of ContentsHow to roast chickpeasThis savory snack is so easy to make. To roast chickpeas all you need is a hot oven and three key ingredients: chickpeas, olive oil, and salt. Once you know how to make chickpeas, you can season them anyway you want!
Try my favorite extra virgin olive oils! Perfect for cooking, dressing salads, or to dip some warm pita! The Mediterranean Dish Extra Virgin Olive Oil selection has oils made with olives from Greece, Italy, Spain, and California. Whether you're looking for a medium-intensity cooking oil, a robust and peppery oil for salad dressings, or something flavorful to drizzle over your favorite dips, our online store has an EVOO for you! How to season roasted chickpeasThere are so many ways to season and spice up roasted chickpeas. Youâre only limited by your imagination! This time, I went for warm Middle Eastern and Moroccan flavors. I used a combination of some of my favorites, all of which can be found at our online shop:
When it comes to seasoning chickpeas feel free to get creative. They will assume the best of whatever you mix them with. Here are a few more flavor combinations you might like:
Can you use dried chickpeas instead of canned?Yes, you can use dried chickpeas in this recipe! f you have a bag of dry chickpeas, they will work very well! In fact, roasting dried chickpeas that have been soaked overnight will result in even crunchier chickpeas! You do not have to cook the dried chickpeas before you roast them. Here is how to prepare them:
Tips for making extra crispy roasted chickpeasIt can be disappointing to expect crunch and end up with chewiness, so I have some simple tips to make sure your roasted chickpeas are ultra crunchy every time!
Ways to use roasted chickpeasWhile my favorite way to enjoy this chickpea snack is to pop them into my mouth straight from the bowl, there are other ways you can use them!
How long will roasted chickpeas last?I love roasted chickpeas right out of the oven. When they sit for a while and cool off, roasted chickpeas will lose a little bit of their crunch. BUT, they turn nutty, intense with flavor, and a bit chewy on the inside. In my opinion, still irresistible.
Like I said earlier, leaving the storage jar lid a bit loose allows the chickpeas to breathe, keeping them crispy for longer. Are chickpeas good for you?Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a good source of plant-based protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. According to the USDA, one cup of chickpeas provides almost â
of an adultâs daily protein needs! Needless to say they are a regular item on my shopping list! More chickpea recipesBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Make these crispy chickpeas for an easy, healthy, flavor-packed snack! Salt and extra virgin olive oil is all you need for the roasted chickpeas, but if you want to jazz them up, add some spices or seasoning as soon as they're out of the oven! This recipe yields about 8 servings.
Course Snack
Cuisine Mediterranean
Diet Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings 3 cups; about 8 servings
Calories 392kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 392kcal | Carbohydrates: 41.3g | Protein: 14.9g | Fat: 19.9g | Saturated Fat: 2.6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 11.6g | Sodium: 1249.9mg | Potassium: 444mg | Fiber: 13.4g | Sugar: 0.2g | Vitamin A: 69.3IU | Vitamin C: 0.7mg | Calcium: 112.7mg | Iron: 4.2mg
*This post originally appeared on The Mediterranean Dish in 2019 and has been recently updated with new information for readers' benefit. The post How to Make Crispy Roasted Chickpeas appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/roasted-chickpeas/ Learn how to make this rosemary focaccia bread recipe with an extra kick of flavor from roasted garlic. Once you master this crispy on the outside, chewy on the outside Italian bread you'll make it on repeat! Making rosemary focaccia (fuh-kaa-chuh) bread is an immersive experience. Watching the dough transform from a sticky mass to a chewy, golden sheet of pillowy bread dotted with rosemary, roasted garlic, and olive oil is nothing short of miraculous. Once youâve learned how to make focaccia youâll wonder what took so long! Table of ContentsWhat is focaccia?Focaccia is an Italian flatbread. It can be thick and pillowy or thin with chewy, crispy edges. I like mine somewhere in the middle. How to make focaccia is totally up to you! Use this recipe to make your focaccia thick or thin and dress it up with any flavor combo you can imagine.
What is biga?Biga is a pre-ferment similar to a sourdough starter or a poolish. It is a combination of flour and water, with a touch of active dry yeast added to kick start everything. Then you let it sit overnight and up to 48 hours in the fridge. A biga adds flavor and complexity to bread dough. It is commonly used in breads like focaccia that need an open, light and airy texture. Once you get the hang of using a biga for bread baking you can use it in all kinds of bread. I first learned how to make it more than a decade ago when I was researching my book New Prairie Kitchen, and I have never looked back. What does focaccia taste like?Focaccia is chewy and loaded with olive oil. Some people equate it to pizza, because you can pile toppings on it, but I donât think thatâs an accurate description. It has a thin chewy crust with crispy bits due to the olive oil and the inside is pillowy, light and almost melts in your mouth due to the air bubbles created during the stretching and dimpling process. The woody herb rosemary is a perfect match when learning how to make focaccia bread because it's sturdy and adds both flavor and texture to the bread while not overpowering the olive oil. Whatâs in focaccia?Like most breads the ingredients are pretty simple. Thatâs the beauty of it. For this focaccia recipe we have:
Roasting Garlic is Easy! Use roasted garlic to add flavor to spreads, soups, breads and mashed potatoes! Whether you need to roast a little or a lot of garlic we've got you covered! Our guide on How to Roast Garlic shows you three different ways to roast this powerhouse flavor booster so you never have to go without! How to make focacciaIf youâre new to bread baking, focaccia is one of the easiest breads for beginners. You donât knead it. Itâs forgiving if you forget about it, and if you run out of time or plans change, just pop the dough in the fridge and pick up where you left off tomorrow. The time that goes into making focaccia is mostly inactive. Itâs during these slow rises and massaging of dough that the flavor develops. If youâre going to make homemade focaccia, it might as well be the best homemade focaccia. Rosemary focaccia is the perfect recipe for a Saturday afternoon of folding laundry. Put a load in, stretch the dough, transfer clothes to the dryer, stretch the dough, fold the laundry, stretch the dough. You get the idea.
What to serve with focaccia?I love the sweet caramelized flavors of roasted garlic. I donât think people use it enough. When paired with rosemary it creates a savory, fragrant bread perfect for topping with eggplant caponata, cutting into strips to add to a party platter of dips and spreads like this creamy whipped feta dip or dunking into soups like this roasted tomato soup. I might even be known to grab a slice or two on my way out the door to pick my kids up from school. Ways to make this recipe your ownConsider this focaccia bread recipe your jumping off point for endless focaccia flavor combinations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
More bread recipesBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Keep the Italian vibes going! Try our Nocellara Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil in your focaccia bread! Produced from hand-picked and cold extracted Nocellara olives, this is an exquisite medium intensity oil with a mildly bitter and spicy finish. Roasted Garlic and Rosemary Focaccia Recipe
Learn how to make this rosemary focaccia bread recipe with an extra kick of flavor from roasted garlic. Once you master this crispy on the outside, chewy on the outside Italian bread you'll make it again and again! Don't worry about the time stretching or dimpling the dough. Focaccia is easy to make, and most of the time is inactive.
Course Bread
Cuisine Italian
Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Biga + Dough Rise Time 16 hours
Total Time 53 minutes
Servings 12 servings, up to
Calories 271.5kcal
Author Summer Miller
IngredientsBiga
Focaccia
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 271.5kcal | Carbohydrates: 30.5g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14.2g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.7g | Monounsaturated Fat: 9.9g | Sodium: 536.3mg | Potassium: 44.5mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.1g | Vitamin A: 5.7IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 8.4mg | Iron: 0.5mg
The post Rosemary Focaccia with Roasted Garlic appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/focaccia-recipe/ Easy savory mashed sweet potatoes with thyme and garlic. Perfect quick side for busy weeknights or special occasions! Plus, my lighter version swaps out the butter and heavy cream in favor of extra virgin olive oil and a little whole milk. Thereâs certainly a time and place for mashed sweet potatoes with a little sweetness, but sometimes, only a savory version will do! Enter my recipe for mashed sweet potatoes with garlic and thyme â quick, easy, and oh-so delicious. Serve it as a side dish on any old weeknight, or wow your guests at your next dinner party, perhaps pairing it with roasted Cornish hens or baked cranberry chicken. This is a lighter, healthier mashed sweet potato recipe because I use extra virgin olive oil and a splash of whole milk instead of butter and cream. Donât worry, we donât lose any of that creamy decadence that we expect from sweet potato mash! Bonus: Itâs ready in under 30 minutes! Table of ContentsHow to season mashed sweet potatoesSweet potatoes are special because they take on sweet and savory flavors equally well. Here are some ideas for how to season mashed sweet potatoes:
How to Roast Garlic We've got all the tips! For more information about the ins and outs of how to roast garlic, check out our complete guide! It's so much easier than you might think! How long to boil potatoes for mash?Sweet potatoes quickly become tender when you boil them, especially when cut into cubes. They will take around 15 to 20 minutes to soften, depending on how large the cubes are. How to make savory mashed sweet potatoesMaking this mashed sweet potato recipe is as easy as boiling a few pounds of sweet potatoes, mashing them, and lastly adding seasoning. Such a simple side dish, but sure to delight your guests at holiday parties! Hereâs how to make it:
Serving suggestionsSweet potato mash is one of my favorite side dishes to serve at dinner parties or to take along to potlucks. Itâs easy, pretty to look at with that vibrant orange hue, and so tasty. Hereâs some ideas of festive main dishes to serve it with:
Vegan mashed sweet potato recipeThis recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written, and itâs so easy to make it vegan-friendly, too! All you need to do is either swap out the whole milk for your favorite vegan alternative, or omit it altogether. Leaving out the milk will give you mash that is a bit less creamy, but it will still taste fantastic. How to store leftoversLeftover mashed sweet potatoes will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This means you could even prepare it well in advance! I love eating leftovers for breakfast: Just fry up an egg and lay it on some warmed mash! Add a side of mixed greens, and you have yourself a filling, nutritious breakfast that will keep you going for hours! More sweet potato recipesBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Get your copy of The Mediterranean Dish Cookbook! 120 Bold and Healthy Recipes You'll Make on Repeat Suzy brings cross-culturally inspired dishes from throughout the Mediterranean into American home kitchens, using easy-to-find ingredients and easy-to-follow, tested-to-perfection recipes to make your meals more vibrant, delicious, and yes â even a little healthier, too! Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Thyme
Easy savory mashed sweet potatoes with thyme and garlic is a delicious side that works for busy weeknights or special occasions! This lighter sweet potato mash has no butter or cream, and is so easy to make vegan-friendly. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American/Mediterranean
Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 8 people, up to
Calories 200.7kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 200.7kcal | Carbohydrates: 46.2g | Protein: 3.9g | Fat: 0.4g | Saturated Fat: 0.2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 0.9mg | Sodium: 127.7mg | Potassium: 780.3mg | Fiber: 6.9g | Sugar: 9.9g | Vitamin A: 32211.7IU | Vitamin C: 6.4mg | Calcium: 80.1mg | Iron: 1.5mg
The post Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Garlic and Thyme appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/mashed-sweet-potatoes/ Churro chips dusted with cinnamon and sugar are an easy to make sweet treat. All you need is about 5 minutes and a few ingredients. Make them with pita or tortillas. Iâm a big fan of simple sweet goodies, be it a rich pumpkin parfait or a batch of beautiful chocolate-covered dates â and Iâm adding churro chips to the list. Churros are a popular treat, and itâs easy to see why: Theyâre essentially ropes of dough that are fried and then coated in cinnamon sugar. Churro chips are a perfect snack to make when you crave the delicious cinnamon-y sweet taste of churros but donât want to make a total mess of the kitchen. Theyâre also crispy and just sweet enough; basically a treat youâll be making over and over! I also share two ways to cook them, either frying them in oil or baking them in the oven! In this postTable of ContentsWhat are churros?The origins of the beloved churro are a tad murky. Depending on who you ask, churros were invented in Spain, Portugal, or China â youtiao is a very similar Chinese fried dough fritter â before being introduced to other parts of the world. What are churro chips made from?Typically, churro chips are made from flour tortillas, which are cut up into triangles and then fried. I decided to go with pita bread instead, since I always have it on hand. You could use any kind of thin flatbread, though. To prepare pita bread for frying, hereâs what you need to do:
How to make churro chipsYou can either fry or bake the churro chips. While I usually fry them since itâs so quick, baking is a wonderful option if you want something lighter but equally delicious. Hereâs how to do both: How to make fried churro chips
How to make baked churro chips
Curious about olive oil?? Get all the information you need about cooking with olive oil in our comprehensive guide. How to serve churro chipsWhile churro chips are amazing on their own, they also go really well with a variety of dips and toppings. Here are some ideas:
How to store churro chipsChurro chips are best eaten right away for maximum crunchiness. But if you have leftovers, store them on the counter or in your pantry in an airtight container or a Ziploc bag. They will keep for about 2 days. More easy sweet treatsBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Get your copy of The Mediterranean Dish Cookbook! 120 Bold and Healthy Recipes You'll Make on Repeat Suzy brings cross-culturally inspired dishes from throughout the Mediterranean into American home kitchens, using easy-to-find ingredients and easy-to-follow, tested-to-perfection recipes to make your meals more vibrant, delicious, and yes â even a little healthier, too! Easy Churro Chips
Beyond easy churro chips recipe made with pita bread! I'm not kidding when I say you can have a batch ready in about 5 minutes -- and they'll serve around 8 people! Dust the freshly fried churro chips with cinnamon and sugar and you'll have an addictive sweet treat. (See instructions for Baked Churro Chips in the Notes section.)
Course Dessert
Cuisine Spanish
Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 2 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Servings 8 people, or more
Calories 67.5kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 67.5kcal | Carbohydrates: 15.6g | Protein: 1.4g | Fat: 0.2g | Saturated Fat: 0.03g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.02g | Sodium: 75.3mg | Potassium: 25.5mg | Fiber: 1.4g | Sugar: 6.3g | Vitamin A: 5.9IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 32.1mg | Iron: 0.4mg
The post Easy Churro Chips appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/churro-chips/ No-fuss egg toast with vegetables is ready in about 20 minutes! It's your go-to easy, healthy breakfast recipe for busy mornings. I get asked all the time for Mediterranean Diet inspired breakfast ideas, and this egg toast with vegetables ticks all my boxes! Quick? Check. Easy? Check. Delicious? Check!! If youâre in the mood for eggs and vegetables, but want something quicker than a vegetable frittata or an egg casserole, egg toast is just what you need! Simply whisk together eggs, vegetables, and some feta cheese. Spoon the mixture onto sliced bread, and bake for about 15 minutes. Breakfast is served! Table of ContentsIngredients youâll need for egg toastA few eggs, vegetables, and spices are all you need to make delicious egg toast for breakfast! Hereâs more details:
How to make egg toastI am all about a no-fuss breakfast recipe, so this simple baked egg toast is part of my regular rotation! Hereâs how to make it:
Egg toast loves companyA single egg toast makes a super satisfying and healthy breakfast, because it's loaded with veggies, a little fat from the feta and protein from the eggs, but if you need a little something extra, add a drink. Why not make a refreshing green juice or creamy tahini date shake to go along with it? A simple fruit salad is an easy and welcome addition to morning meals, too. It doesnât have to be fancy. If you are planning for company and need a gluten-free option, serve my pumpkin parfait. It's another healthy breakfast (or dessert) idea to add to the rotation. Sometimes the conversation keeps coming especially when the food and drinks are flowing! Don't be afraid to turn brunch into an afternoon affair! Serve your guests carajillo â a boozy coffee drink beloved in Spain, and many other Spanish speaking countries. Egg toast anyway you want it!Feel free to tweak the vegetables and spices to use what you have on hand. I love how customizable this egg toast breakfast recipe is! Here are some ideas:
More breakfast recipes with eggsBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Season up your eggs with our spices! Browse The Mediterranean Dish Spice Collection! Whether you're looking for unusual or exotic spices like Aleppo pepper, ras el hanout, or baharat -- or pantry staples like paprika and cumin -- we've got you covered! Egg Toast with Vegetables (Healthy Breakfast Recipe)
This is just the thing when you need a quick, nutritious, delicious breakfast recipe! Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish, this egg toast with veggies will keep you satisfied for hours. Serve it on its own, or with a drink like a green juice or a tahini date shake.
Course Breakfast
Cuisine Mediterranean
Diet Vegetarian
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Calories 175.2kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 175.2kcal | Carbohydrates: 17.7g | Protein: 11.3g | Fat: 6.8g | Saturated Fat: 2.3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1.8g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 168.7mg | Sodium: 288.8mg | Potassium: 247.3mg | Fiber: 2.3g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 1770.5IU | Vitamin C: 47.5mg | Calcium: 73.6mg | Iron: 2.4mg
The post Egg Toast with Vegetables (Healthy Breakfast Recipe) appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/egg-toast/ Carajillo is a coffee drink typically made with rum or brandy. Many people throughout Spain, Latin America and the Caribbean enjoy it with their own twist. Once you try it, you'll make this coffee cocktail on repeat! You could almost consider coffee a universally appreciated, if not loved, beverage. Millions of people throughout the world drink it every day. But how people enjoy coffee is expressed in endless distinct variations including one of my favorites coffee cocktails â carajillo. Carajillo is an any-time-of-day coffee drink with a secret punch: booze. Many in Spain, Cuba, Mexico, and other Spanish speaking countries enjoy this coffee cocktail hot or cold and with different alcohol variations. In this recipe we are sharing a Spanish approach to carajillo, with a touch of Brandy or rum. Table of ContentsWhat is carajillo?Carajillo is an espresso and liquor cocktail. The type of booze can vary as can the presentation. You can find the drink served with a sugar rim, the alcohol and coffee poured in distinct layers, or even set on fire. Yes, fire! If I'm making it at home, I tend to keep things pretty simple and leave the flames to the professionals. In Mexico and certain parts of Spain Carajillo is spiked with Licor 43, a sweet, orange-scented liqueur. (Licor 43 is one of my favorite liqueurs. I recommend you try it in sangria some time.) In the States, carajillo is better known as Spanish coffee, which is an entirely different drink altogether. It includes whipped cream, flames, and coffee liqueur. James Louie, a restauranteur, created the now famous riff on carajillo in the 1970s. While the American Spanish Coffee drink is delicious it's not carajillo. Where did carajillo begin?The origin story of the Carajillo â like many drinks that come to us from the mists of history â is rather murky. In fact, there are several, very different, origin stories surrounding the drink. It evolved from there to become a common neighborhood drink. Easy and acceptably consumed from morning to night. If that story doesn't satisfy, then turn toward another story where workers invented the drink so they could toss it back quickly and get back to work. Carajillo's popularity in Spain and around the world is widespread (regardless of where or how it started) and for a good reason: Itâs a wonderfully delicious drink. Whatâs in carajillo?There are just two basic ingredients in a Carajillo: espresso and liquor. For the liquor, I prefer a strong brown liquor because those taste great with coffee, but if you prefer things on the sweeter side try it with Licor 43 instead. Honestly, your favorite brand of any of the options below will be delicious:
What if I donât have espresso?Donât let lack of an espresso machine prevent you from making carajillo! You can still make a great coffee cocktail with a pot of strongly brewed coffee. If you only have a coffee machine or a French press at home, brew an extra strong pot and use that in place of espresso. Make carajillo your ownWith a simple drink like carajillo, you will always find variations. Donât like black coffee, or need some sugar with your boozy cup of joe? I have you covered! I do recommend, however, trying the typical recipe first presented here, and then try any of these variations once youâve mastered this coffee cocktail. Here are some ways to make a carajillo your own:
Dinner and drinksDepending upon where in the world youâre drinking carajillo, you can enjoy it with a variety of small plates, after a large meal or with brunch. Create a Spanish feast of tapas like patatas bravas and pan con tomate and a main like Paella. Stick with the evening's theme and sip sangria during dinner. As the evening winds down, pass the carajillo â your soon-to-be favorite caffeinated cocktail â to keep the party going! More drink recipes to tryBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Carajillo (Spiked Coffee Drink)
Must-try recipe for Carajillo, a Spanish coffee drink made with a little booze. All you need is espresso (or very strong coffee) and liquor like rum or brandy! Drink it as is, or add some sugar to sweeten it up. This recipe is for 1 serving, so feel free to double or triple it if you have company over.
Course Drinks
Cuisine Spanish
Diet Vegan, Vegetarian
Prep Time 2 minutes
Servings 1 drink
Calories 70.6kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 70.6kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.9g | Protein: 0.1g | Fat: 0.1g | Saturated Fat: 0.1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 8.2mg | Potassium: 65.8mg | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 1.1mg | Iron: 0.1mg
The post Carajillo Recipe (Spiked Coffee) appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/carajillo-recipe-spiked-coffee/ Turkish red lentil soup (kırmızı mercimek çorbası) is velvety, comforting, and nutritious! So easy to make with lentils, veggies, and spices â and itâs ready in about 30 minutes! Turkish red lentil soup, or mercimek çorbası, is a new favorite of mine â it's velvety and creamy, despite containing absolutely no cream! Red lentils breakdown and soften easily during the the cooking process, which is how you get the creamy texture in this Turkish soup without the added fat. When I need to throw together a quick and healthy dinner, red lentils are one of my go-tos. Fast-cooking and delicious, these tiny legumes are a good source of both protein and fiber. They absorb seasonings easily, so thereâs no limit to the different flavors I can play with. Whether Iâm whipping up a Greek red lentil soup or curried red lentils with sweet potatoes, I can always count on these nutrition bombs to deliver a meal that is both comforting and wholesome â with very little effort and this soup is no exception! Kırmızı mercimek çorbası might remind you a little of dal, a rich South Asian stew made with different types of pulses (lentils among them), but the spices in this red lentil soup are distinctly Turkish. Aleppo pepper flakes add a little kick and a hint of raisin-like sweetness. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, if you use vegetable broth, this cozy healthy soup makes a tasty appetizer or a filling main dish. If you're looking for a little something extra try it with some warmed pita bread or a simple lettuce salad.
Table of ContentsIngredients for Turkish lentil soupMercimek çorbası is one of those simple recipes that looks humble but is loaded with delicious flavor. Hereâs what youâll need to make it:
How to make Turkish lentil soupSaute the vegetables, add broth and lentils, simmer, and blend. Thatâs the gist of this super easy soup recipe! Hereâs how you make it:
How to blend soupI use an immersion or stick blender for this. They are so easy to use, but if you don't have an immersion blender you can blend soup using a countertop blender. Follow a few simple guidelines when using a standard blender.
What to serve with Turkish red lentil soupServe this soup as an appetizer or a main. Here are some ideas for both:
How to store and reheat leftover soupLeftover Turkish red lentil soup will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but it will thicken up once it cools. To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot and add a little broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Can you freeze mercimek çorbası?Kırmızı mercimek çorbası is an excellent option for batch-cooking, because it freezes really well! Simply allow it to cool before popping it in freezer-safe containers. I like freezing individual servings, so I can quickly pull them out of the freezer for a last-minute lunch. Thaw the soup overnight in the fridge and reheat. More lentil soup recipesBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Looking for the BEST red lentils to use? Try The Mediterranean Dish Red Lentils! Slightly sweet, creamy, and able to easily absorb flavors from aromatics and spices, our red split lentils are also super nutritious, with lots of protein and fiber. Plus, cooking them is a breeze: no soaking required! Turkish Lentil Soup (Mercimek Ãorbası)
Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Kırmızı Mercimek Ãorbası) is velvety, comforting, and nutritious! Plus, itâs so easy to make with lentils, a few veggies, and spices like Aleppo pepper! Naturally gluten-free, and with a simple swap for a vegan option, this Turkish lentil soup is ready in about 30 minutes.
Course Entree, Soup
Cuisine Turkish
Diet Gluten Free
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 27 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 282.7kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
VideoNotes
Nutrition
Calories: 282.7kcal | Carbohydrates: 34.8g | Protein: 10.6g | Fat: 12.3g | Saturated Fat: 1.7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8.7g | Sodium: 266.6mg | Potassium: 630.8mg | Fiber: 12.5g | Sugar: 4.7g | Vitamin A: 3697.1IU | Vitamin C: 17.2mg | Calcium: 47.3mg | Iron: 3.4mg
The post Turkish Red Lentil Soup (Kırmızı Mercimek Ãorbası) appeared first on The Mediterranean Dish. via The Mediterranean Dish https://www.themediterraneandish.com/turkish-lentil-soup/ Poached pears are a beautiful and easy dessert. No special skills, pans or ingredients required â just fruit, wine, and warm spices! Plus, they taste even better the next day, making this an ideal make-ahead dessert. If you're new to poaching fruit you're in for a real treat. I love this poached pear recipe because it looks like I've spent hours in the kitchen and it hardly takes any effort to make this! I simply poach pears in red wine, orange juice, honey, cardamom and cinnamon. When ready to serve, drizzle the ruby-hued pears with the fragrant, sweet, spiced poaching liquid, and a little creme fraiche, custard or vanilla ice cream on the side. Easy and elegant around the holidays? Now you're talking my language! Don't get me wrong, I'm all about a tender plum cake or a rich and creamy lemon ricotta cheesecake, but sometimes I want a simple dessert without making a big mess in the kitchen â that's where wine poached pears come in. They are the one-pot wonder of beautiful and healthy dessert recipes. And who doesn't need an easy-to-make, show-stopping dessert for the holidays? Table of ContentsWhat are poached pears?A poached pear simply means the fruit is simmered in liquid and usually spices until it's tender but still firm and holds it shape. They can be serve with other embellishments for a dessert or stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and eaten whenever the mood strikes. What are the best pears to poachFor the best possible outcome with poaching pears you want to look for a few key details:
What do you need for poached pears?This recipe has a very short ingredient list, which I absolutely love. Get your hands on some pears, oranges, and a bottle of dry red wine, and combine them with a few pantry staples. Hereâs everything youâll need to make poached pears:
How to make wine poached pearsPoached pears are an elegant, beautiful dessert that make a lovely centerpiece for your holiday table. The best part? Theyâre so easy to make! Once the fruit is prepped, all you need to do is poach the pears! Hereâs how:
How to serve pears poached in red wineYou can serve poached pears hot, warm, or cold. I typically make them the night before I want to serve them, because they are even better the next day once theyâve had a chance to absorb more of the flavor from the poaching liquid.
How to store poached pearsRed wine poached pears taste even better the next day, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert! Once the pears cool, store them in the refrigerator in a large glass container with a tight lid for up to 5 days. Try not to pack them together too tightly or they may get smashed. While this wonât affect the flavor, it will affect the look of the pears when you serve them. I typically serve poached pears cold, straight out of the fridge, but you can warm them up on the stove if you prefer a hot dessert. What pairs with poached pears?I usually serve red wine poached pears around the holidays or when we are having friends over for dinner. Chances are we are lingering around the table a bit, so having this recipe as a make ahead dessert option really helps. More fruity dessert recipesBrowse all Mediterranean recipes. Red Wine Poached Pears
Poached pears elegant, beautiful, and simple to make. You don't need any special skills or tools -- just some fruit, red wine, spices, and a cooking pot. Serve them hot, warm, or cold, either by themselves or with a little whipped cream on the side. Pro tip: Poached pears taste even better the next day after they've had some time to soak in the cooking liquid, so feel free to make these a day ahead!
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Diet Gluten Free, Vegetarian
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 257.4kcal
Author Suzy Karadsheh
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition
Calories: 257.4kcal | Carbohydrates: 52.9g | Protein: 1.2g | Fat: 0.3g | Saturated Fat: 0.05g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.2g | Sodium: 3.1mg | Potassium: 296.5mg | Fiber: 6.9g | Sugar: 38.9g | Vitamin A: 161.5IU | Vitamin C: 35.3mg | Calcium: 43.8mg | Iron: 0.5mg
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ABOUT MEHi, I am Daniel Jones from Overland Park, MO. I am a chef by profession, & also publish my recipe tips online on blogs and social media. Archives
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