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The Flavors of the Middle East

March 9, 2022 by Monica Nelson Leave a Comment

If you’re looking for a culinary adventure, look no further than the cuisine of the Middle East. This diverse region is home to a vast array of flavors and dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From savory stews to sweet desserts, there is something for everyone in Middle Eastern cuisine. In this article, we will explore the many flavors of the Middle East and discuss some of the benefits of eating this delicious food. The flavors of the Middle East are unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before.

Photo by Victoria Morgan on Unsplash

Flavorful and Fragrant 

The dishes from this region are often very flavorful and fragrant, thanks to the use of spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and turmeric. Dishes from the Middle East are also typically very healthy, as they are often made with fresh vegetables and lean meats. The Middle East is a region full of flavor and spices. From the sweet taste of honey to the fiery heat of chili peppers, there is something for everyone in this cuisine. The use of dates is also very common in Middle Eastern cooking. 


Different Cuisines 

There are a variety of different cuisines from the Middle East, so there’s sure to be something to suit everyone’s taste buds. Some popular examples include Lebanese, Moroccan, and Persian cuisine.


Hummus

One of the most iconic dishes of Middle Eastern cuisine is hummus. This creamy and flavorful spread is made from chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice. Hummus is often served with pita bread or vegetables as a dip or appetizer. It is also a great source of protein and fiber. So if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy recipe, look no further than a Roasted Red Pepper Hummus.


Falafel

Another popular dish from the Middle East is falafel. These fried balls or patties are made from ground chickpeas or fava beans and are typically served in a pita bread wrap with vegetables and tahini sauce. Falafel is a great source of protein, fiber, and vitamins A and C. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making some Spicy Falafel Patties.


Lebanese Kibbeh

This dish is made with ground beef, bulgur wheat, and spices. It’s usually served with a yogurt sauce on the side.


Moroccan Lamb Stew

This stew is made with lamb, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. It’s simmered in a fragrant broth until it’s tender and ready to eat.


Persian Chicken Kabobs

These kabobs are made with chicken breasts, onions, tomatoes, and spices. They’re grilled to perfection and perfect for a summer BBQ!


Cumin

One of the most distinctive flavors in Middle Eastern cuisine is cumin. This earthy spice is used in many dishes, such as falafel, hummus, and baba ghanoush. Cumin is an excellent source of iron and magnesium. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. So if you want to add some flavor to your next dish, be sure to use cumin.

Photo by Mike van Schoonderwalt from Pexels

Medjool Dates

One of the most popular ingredients in Middle Eastern cuisine is Medjool dates. They are a type of date that grows in the desert regions of North Africa and the Middle East. These sweet fruits are often used in desserts, but they can also be used in savory dishes as well. Some of the health benefits of medjool dates are that they are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, and they have been shown to help improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels.


Lamb

Another popular ingredient in Middle Eastern cuisine is lamb. Lamb is a type of red meat that is high in protein and iron. It is often cooked with spices and served with rice or vegetables. Lamb is a popular ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, such as kebabs and stews.


Baklava

Middle Eastern cuisine is also known for its delicious desserts. One of our favorites is baklava. This sweet treat is made from layers of phyllo dough, nuts, and syrup. Baklava is a great way to end a meal or enjoy it as a snack. If you’re feeling ambitious, try making a Vegan Baklava.

Photo by Valeria Boltneva from Pexels


We hope you enjoyed this introduction to the flavors of the Middle East. The Middle East is a region of the world that is known for its rich and diverse culture. The cuisine from this region is no different, as it offers a wide variety of flavors and ingredients that are sure to please any palate. These delicious dishes are just a taste of what this region has to offer. So next time you’re looking for something new to try, be sure to give Middle Eastern cuisine a chance! You won’t be disappointed.


This is a collaborative post. 


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Hi! I'm Monica Nelson and I'm thrilled that you're here. As a healthy chef, personal trainer & fitness expert, I love helping people look & feel great! That's why I've developed more than 350 recipes from diet-conscious to decadent - but all delicious - so you can experiment with healthy foods that taste great. Take a look around and try a recipe or two and head over for a quick workout at monicanelsonwellness.com

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Let’s fire up the grill and here is a healthy ye Let’s fire up the grill and here is a healthy yet super tasty and fun treat for the 4th!
You can also use this same coconut cream again and just serve with your favorite fresh berries all season long! Enjoy. 

GRILLED PINEAPPLE WITH COCONUT CREAM
🍍🍍🍍

INGREDIENTS

For the Marinade:
• 1 tbs coconut oil (can also use olive)
• 1 tsp  ground cinnamon
• 2 1/2 tbs dark honey
• 1 vanilla bean (can be optional – but I love it here)
• 1 tbs of fresh lime juice
• 1 firm yet ripe pineapple, can buy already cut
For Garnish (Optional):
• 1 tbs dark rum
• 1 tbs grated lime zest from the lime
My Coconut Cream:
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cream of coconut (such as Coco Lopez)

DIRECTIONS

Marinade:
1. In a large bowl – combine the oil, cinnamon, honey, vanilla bean (if using), and lime juice; whisk to well to blend together. Set aside.
2. Place each pineapple half cut-side down and cut it lengthwise into four long wedges; slice away the core. NOTE: Or you can slice it in rings too, which I do often. 
3. Place the pineapple in the bowl with the marinade and stir to coat the pineapple. Heat up the grill.
4. Place on the grill and cook about 3 to 4 mins. You can baste once or twice with the remaining marinade. Turn the fruit and move it to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat. Baste again with the marinade. Grill until the pineapple is tender and golden, about 3 more mins.
5. Remove the pineapple from the grill and place on a platter. Next, brush with the rum – if using. Last, sprinkle with the lime zest. Serve hot or warm!

For the Coconut Cream:
1. With an electric mixer, beat the heavy cream and cream of coconut until soft peaks form. TIP: You can also use this same cream again and just serve with your favorite fresh berries all season long.

So perfect for a summer treat with friends. Enjoy!
Let’s make my GREEN ME UP smoothie! I’ve been Let’s make my GREEN ME UP smoothie! I’ve been making this smoothie or a variation of it for the past 13-14 yrs, heck before there was TikTok. 😂 Such a delicious way to pack in some serious nutrition and those GREENS. 

Smoothies are an incredible tool to your wellbeing. They are super easy, versatile, and gosh dang - delicious and healthy. (If made correctly). That’s why I’m all about getting my clients on the smoothie train - if they’re up for it. 😉 

Just love providing clients with dozens of smoothie recipes I’ve created packed with protein and fiber, including healthy fats that keep you full 3-5 hrs easily. No matter what season of life I’ve been in personally: serious training, fitness modeling, both pregnancies/postpartum/nursing, healing, and now being a busy mom feeding our kids smoothies each morning, smoothies have been an essential piece.

This is a loose recipe so you can add anything else you want. Just make sure you have your protein source, your favorite veggies (hello phytonutrients), fiber sources and healthy fat. 

** Tip: put all the ingredients (EXCEPT the liquid) in the blender the night before! This tip has helped for years.

🥬GREEN ME UP SMOOTHIE🥬

• Handful of organic greens
• 1-2 cups organic celery (vitamins A, K, C, hydrating, supports digestion)
• 1/2 cup frozen cauliflower rice (makes it thick, extra fiber)
• 1 Brazil nut (gives daily selenium, which is important for fertility)
• 1/4 of an avocado
• 1/4 cup wild blueberries
• 1 tsp organic spirulina @nowfoodsofficial 
• 1/4-1/2 ceylon cinnamon (helps regulate blood sugar, antioxidant)
• 1 scoop @paleovalley bone broth powder
• 1 scoop whey - I like isolate and @nowfoodsofficial has a good one
• Creatine @nowfoodsofficial (fav supplement for 10+ yrs)
• 6-8 oz of unsweetened almond or coconut milk
• 1 scoop of @beeyawellness for topping, optional 

Other options I rotate in: ginger root, basil & chia seeds, psyllium husk powder, lemon (vitamin C), herbs like cilantro & mint, dandelion greens (great source of vitamin K).

1. Place everything in a HIGH-speed blender (yes this is important. Otherwise you’ll get salad texture). Blend for about 1 min. Enjoy!
Happy 2nd birthday to this special girl who I’m Happy 2nd birthday to this special girl who I’m utterly positive is a true magical fairy princess. We did a purple bday theme to match her cast. We just love watching you shine and embrace your world! 
You bring such joy and laughter to us Aubyn and may your birthday be as extraordinary as you are, sweet one. 💜🎂💜
Your kids are always listening. Always watching. A Your kids are always listening. Always watching. Always paying attention to your every move. They want to be. just. like. you. Healthy habits start young! Glad to see these two at 23 months & 6 yrs old lifting all on their own. 💪🏻

Recently Asher rushed home from school and said “I’m working out for 10 mins to get strong.” Followed by “then I can break free from all the hugs.” We learned that apparently 3 girls at recess hug Asher nonstop and he wants to get strong to “get away from all the girls.” 😳 Never a dull moment.
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Hi! I'm Monica Nelson and I'm thrilled that you're here. As a healthy chef, personal trainer & fitness expert, competitive athlete & sports model, I love helping people look & feel great! Try a recipe or read a wellness blog and tell me what you think.

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