Discover the Vibrant Flavors of the Levant: An Irresistible Collection of Lebanese & Mediterranean Recipes

Delicious Mediterranean recipes, particularly those hailing from the rich culinary traditions of Lebanon, are renowned for their incredible depth of flavor, vibrant textures, and exceptional nutritional benefits. These dishes are not just food; they are an experience – easy to prepare, remarkably healthy, and absolutely bursting with deliciousness!

Recently, I’ve been reflecting on the inspiration behind my culinary adventures. After a truly wonderful birthday celebration, filled with cherished moments, loving baby kisses, thoughtful gifts (including some fantastic kitchen gadgets and exciting plans for a European trip next year!), and even the magical sight of a double rainbow, my heart was full. Among the delightful presents, one truly stood out: a generous bag from my Aunt and Uncle, brimming with essential ingredients for authentic Lebanese cooking. Inside, I found staples like Tahini, Bulgur, and Kishk, among other treasures. It was a clear sign! This gift reignited the passion that first inspired me to create this blog – a desire to master the beloved family recipes that my Mom and Grandma have lovingly prepared for generations.

Speaking of this blog, establishing its identity was quite a journey. After much contemplation, the name A Cedar Spoon emerged, inspired by the majestic and beautiful Cedars of Lebanon. Visiting these ancient trees, symbols of resilience and beauty, remains a deeply cherished dream of mine. And what an incredible twist of fate – I recently stumbled upon an amazing opportunity: an all-expenses-paid, 8-night holiday to embark on a food trek through Lebanon! The thought alone makes my heart race. Naturally, I entered – a girl can certainly dream, right!?

While I continue to dream of my own Lebanese adventure, my sister was fortunate enough to experience it firsthand! She made a trip to see the iconic Cedars of Lebanon while studying abroad in Egypt, and her descriptions of their beauty were breathtaking. From the stunning photographs I’ve seen, I absolutely agree; they are truly magnificent. She raved incessantly about the food in Lebanon, describing it as “beyond amazing” and “just plain delicious.” I can only imagine the culinary wonders she encountered.

The allure of Lebanese cuisine lies in its emphasis on fresh, wholesome ingredients and its vibrant array of flavors. It’s a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats like olive oil, making it inherently beneficial for health and well-being. From the fragrant herbs to the tangy lemon and robust garlic, every dish tells a story of tradition and hospitality. It’s a cuisine that invites sharing and celebration, turning every meal into a memorable occasion.

The Pillars of Lebanese Cooking: Essential Ingredients

To truly embrace the spirit of Lebanese and Mediterranean cooking, understanding a few key pantry staples is essential. These ingredients form the backbone of countless traditional dishes, infusing them with authentic flavor and character:

Olive Oil: The golden liquid of the Mediterranean, used generously for cooking, dressing salads, and finishing dishes. Its rich, fruity notes are indispensable.
Lemon Juice: A cornerstone of flavor, providing a bright, tangy zest that balances richness and enhances freshness in everything from salads to marinades and dips.
Garlic: A potent aromatic, often used in abundance, lending a pungent and savory depth to most savory preparations.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and mint are particularly prominent, offering a burst of freshness and vibrant green color to salads, spreads, and main courses.
Chickpeas: A versatile legume, central to iconic dishes like hummus and falafel, providing protein and a creamy texture.
Lentils: Another healthy and hearty legume, used in nourishing soups and salads.
Bulgur Wheat: A par-cooked, cracked wheat grain that adds delightful texture and a nutty flavor to salads like tabbouleh, and is a key component in kibbeh.
Tahini: A rich, creamy paste made from ground sesame seeds, crucial for hummus, baba ghanoush, and various sauces, offering a distinct nutty flavor.
Spices: While complex spice blends are less common than in some other Middle Eastern cuisines, staples include dried mint, sumac (for its tangy, lemony flavor), and za’atar (a blend of thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds, often used on bread or with olive oil).

These ingredients, combined with fresh vegetables and lean proteins, create a symphony of flavors that are both comforting and exhilarating.

A Culinary Tour: 20 Delicious Lebanese & Mediterranean Recipes to Try

In the spirit of Lebanese cooking, and inspired by the flavors my family holds dear, I’ve curated a round-up of 20 delicious Mediterranean recipes. Some I’ve already mastered and loved sharing, others are on my “must-try” list to further explore this incredible cuisine. I sincerely hope you’ll be inspired to try them too, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean to your own kitchen!

Appetizers & Dips (Mezze)

Roasted Chickpeas: Taste for Adventure – A delightful, crunchy snack perfect for any time of day.
Eggplant Dip {Baba Ghanoush}: A Cedar Spoon – This smoky, creamy dip is a staple on any mezze platter, wonderfully enhanced with fresh lemon and tahini.
Hummus: A Cedar Spoon – The ultimate creamy chickpea dip, a must-have for dipping pita bread or accompanying any meal. My homemade version is incredibly smooth and flavorful.
DIY Pita Bread: Tide and Thyme – Nothing beats the taste of warm, freshly baked pita bread straight from your own kitchen.

Refreshing Salads

Fattoush Salad: Greedy Gourmet – A crunchy, zesty bread salad featuring toasted pita, fresh vegetables, and a vibrant sumac dressing.
Tabbouleh with Quinoa: Tastespotting – A modern twist on the classic, incorporating quinoa for added protein and texture.
Tabouleh: A Cedar Spoon – The quintessential Lebanese salad, made with finely chopped parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur, dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil. It’s a burst of freshness in every bite.
Warm Lentil Salad w/ Halloumi Cheese, Oven Roasted Tomatoes & a Za’atar Vinaigrette: Dirty Kitchen Secrets – A hearty and flavorful salad with savory cheese and aromatic spices.
Lebanese Potato Salad: Rose Water & Orange Blossoms – A lighter, herb-infused potato salad, distinct from its mayonnaise-laden counterparts.
Lebanese Tomato Salad: Rose Water & Orange Blossoms – Simple yet incredibly flavorful, highlighting the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes.
Yogurt Cucumber Salad with Mint: Rose Water & Orange Blossoms – A cooling and refreshing side dish, perfect for balancing richer flavors.

Hearty Main Dishes & Savory Bites

Kibbeh {Lamb and Bulgur Wheat Croquettes}: Saveur – A true icon of Lebanese cuisine, these spiced lamb and bulgur croquettes are deeply satisfying.
Green Beans in Olive Oil: Dirty Kitchen Secrets – A simple, elegant vegetarian dish that showcases the beauty of fresh vegetables cooked with quality olive oil.
Ultimate Lebanese Burger: Taste of Beirut – A creative fusion that brings Lebanese flavors to a familiar comfort food.
Sweet and Sour Eggplant, Tomatoes and Chickpeas: NY Times – A flavorful and hearty vegetarian stew, perfect for a wholesome meal.
Lebanese Spinach Pies / Fatayar: Rose Water & Orange Blossoms – Delicious savory pastries filled with a tangy spinach mixture, ideal for snacking or as part of a meal.
Curried Lentil Soup: Oh She Glows – A warming and nutritious soup, perfect for a comforting meal.
Vegetarian Stuffed Grape Leaves: The Shiksa – Tender grape leaves filled with a flavorful rice and herb mixture, a true Mediterranean delight.
Falafel: Beard and Bonnet – Crispy, golden-brown chickpea fritters, a popular street food that makes for a fantastic vegetarian meal.

Sweet Endings

Baklava: lol foodie – Layers of flaky phyllo pastry, chopped nuts, and sweet syrup create this iconic Mediterranean dessert. This is definitely on my list to master this Christmas – I can’t wait!

Whether you’re new to Mediterranean cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, these recipes offer a delightful journey into the heart of Lebanese flavors. Each dish is a testament to the simplicity, freshness, and profound deliciousness that defines this celebrated culinary tradition.

20 Vibrant Mediterranean Recipes