Growing up, my home was always filled with the comforting aromas of Lebanese cooking. I developed a deep appreciation for the warm, earthy spices and the abundance of fresh, vibrant vegetables that define this cuisine. Today’s recipe for Lebanese Vegetables, or Loubieh bi Zeit, holds a special place in my heart as it reminds me of my Grandma’s kitchen. I can still recall the delightful scent of green beans simmering with fragrant spices, a memory that inspired this very dish.

Loubieh bi Zeit is a traditional Lebanese vegan stew featuring green beans, but this recipe expands on that concept to include a colorful assortment of zucchini, diced tomatoes, sweet onions, carrots, and crisp celery. The vegetables are gently stewed in a rich tomato base, infused with the signature warm notes of cumin and cinnamon, along with a hint of thyme and oregano. The slow simmering process allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious and deeply satisfying dish that is both hearty and light.

One of the best aspects of this Lebanese vegetable recipe is its incredible flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your personal preferences or whatever fresh produce you have on hand. For example, if zucchini isn’t your favorite, feel free to swap it out for cauliflower, yellow squash, or even tender eggplant. The core flavor profile built around the spices and tomato remains, allowing you to experiment with various vegetable combinations.

This versatile dish can be served in many ways. While traditionally enjoyed cold or at room temperature as part of a vibrant mezze spread, it’s equally delightful served warm as a healthy side dish or spooned over fluffy rice. For those looking to explore more Mediterranean flavors, I highly recommend trying my Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables. These Lebanese Vegetables also pair wonderfully with savory main courses like Shish Tawook Chicken Thighs or alongside rich Hummus with Spiced Beef and Toasted Pine Nuts, offering a fresh, balanced contrast.

Diving Deeper into Loubieh bi Zeit

Loubieh bi Zeit directly translates to “green beans in oil,” a testament to its primary ingredient and traditional preparation method. This dish is a cornerstone of Lebanese home cooking, celebrated for its simplicity, nourishing qualities, and incredible flavor depth. It’s a staple in many Lebanese households, often prepared in large batches because it tastes even better the next day. Beyond its delicious taste, Loubieh bi Zeit embodies the essence of Mediterranean cuisine – fresh, seasonal ingredients combined with simple yet profound flavors that tell a story of ancient culinary traditions.

Why You’ll Love This Lebanese Vegetable Recipe

• Authentic & Rich Flavor: The slow simmering process allows the vegetables to absorb the fragrant spices and tomato base, creating a deeply satisfying taste reminiscent of traditional Lebanese home cooking.
• Nutritious & Wholesome: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this dish is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm as a comforting side, at room temperature as part of a mezze spread, or even cold for a refreshing meal. It’s incredibly adaptable!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This stew tastes fantastic as leftovers, and its flavors deepen over time. Prepare a larger batch at the beginning of the week for easy, healthy meals.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels, delivering impressive results with minimal fuss.

Recipe Ingredients: A Burst of Mediterranean Flavors

Here’s an overview of the simple yet powerful ingredients that come together to create this flavorful stew. For exact measurements and printable instructions, please refer to the complete recipe card below.

• Vegetables: This dish features a vibrant mix of celery, carrots, sweet onion, tender zucchini, and frozen green beans. This classic combination forms a robust base that perfectly complements the warm spices. The medley of textures and colors adds to the appeal and nutritional value.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended here, as its pungent aroma and flavor are crucial to the dish’s character. If fresh isn’t an option, garlic powder can be used as a substitute, or you can omit it if preferred, though it will subtly change the profile.
• Tomatoes: The rich, tangy foundation of this stew comes from both diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. For an added depth of flavor and a touch of smoky sweetness, consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
• Spices: The soul of this Lebanese dish lies in its warm spice blend. Cumin brings an earthy depth, cinnamon adds a hint of sweet warmth, while thyme and oregano contribute herbaceous notes, creating an unmistakable Mediterranean aroma.

Recipe Modifications & Creative Variations

This recipe is incredibly forgiving and open to customization. Don’t be afraid to make it your own!

• Vegetables: Expand your vegetable medley beyond the core ingredients. Excellent additions include tender eggplant cubes, colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sweet peas, tender artichoke hearts, or hearty squash varieties like butternut or acorn squash. You can also add chopped potatoes or sweet potatoes for a more substantial stew.
• Spices: While the core spices are essential, you can certainly adjust them or introduce others. A pinch of paprika or smoked paprika can add a beautiful color and a deeper, smoky undertone. A dash of chili powder can introduce a subtle kick, and a touch of allspice is also common in Lebanese cooking.
• Beans & Legumes: For an extra boost of protein and fiber, this dish welcomes the addition of other legumes. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed white beans (cannellini or great northern), chickpeas, or even black beans towards the end of the simmering process.
• Other Ingredients: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro stirred in at the end for brightness. Sautéed mushrooms can add an umami depth. For a delightful tangy crunch, swirl in some pickled red onions just before serving. Leafy greens such as fresh spinach, Swiss chard, or kale can be wilted into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking, adding extra nutrients and a lovely vibrant color.