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If you are looking for a dish that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and offers a perfect balance of textures, this Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine juicy, spiced meat grilled to perfection, paired with a fresh, tangy salad and soft, warm flatbread—each bite takes you straight to the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that transform into an unforgettable meal perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in delivering authentic flavor and satisfying texture. From the aromatic spices that infuse the meat to the fresh herbs that brighten the salad, every component is essential to crafting a delicious meal.
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb: Choose fresh meat for rich flavor and juicy kofta.
- 1 small onion, finely grated: Adds moisture and subtle sweetness to the meat mix.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the kebabs with warm, pungent depth.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brings a refreshing herbal note inside the kofta and salad.
- 1 tsp ground cumin: Offers earthy, nutty undertones essential to Middle Eastern flavor.
- 1 tsp ground coriander: Adds a light, citrusy aroma that complements the meat beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Introduces a sweet warmth that rounds out the spice blend.
- 1/2 tsp paprika: Provides mild smokiness and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning that brings all flavors to life.
- Skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes): Prevents burning during grilling and makes flipping easier.
- 4 pita or flatbreads: Soft and perfect for wrapping the kebabs and salad.
- 2 cups chopped cucumber: Adds crunch and cooling freshness to the salad.
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, balancing the richness of the meat.
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion: Sharpness that livens up the salad.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint: Brightens with a cool herbal burst.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Enhances freshness in the salad.
- Juice of 1 lemon: Adds vibrant acidity to tie the salad together.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Enriches the salad with smooth, fruity notes.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for salad): Balances flavors perfectly.
How to Make Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Kofta Meat
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or lamb with finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and the spices—cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika—along with salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully throughout the mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Kebabs
Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer, pressing gently to form long, sausage-like shapes. This shaping helps the meat cook evenly and also gives the kebabs the classic appearance you’ll love serving.
Step 3: Grill the Kebabs
Preheat your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the hot surface and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally so each side gets that perfect charred finish. The aroma while cooking will have your kitchen buzzing with excitement!
Step 4: Prepare the Fresh Salad
While the kebabs grill, combine the chopped cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion in a bowl. Add the fresh mint and parsley, then drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the salad is vibrant, colorful, and well-coated with the dressing.
Step 5: Warm the Flatbreads
Warm your pita or flatbreads directly on the grill or in a pan for a couple of minutes on each side until soft, pliable, and slightly toasted. This step makes them perfect for wrapping up the savory kebabs along with the salad for a handheld, satisfying bite.
Step 6: Assemble and Serve
Remove the kebabs from the grill, slide them off the skewers, and layer them onto the warmed flatbreads. Top with a generous helping of the fresh salad, and if you like, add a dollop of cooling yogurt or tahini sauce to elevate the flavors even further.
How to Serve Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation and flavor by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or mint over the top right before serving. A drizzle of tahini or a dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the spices beautifully, making each bite even more memorable.
Side Dishes
This Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe pairs wonderfully with sides like spiced rice pilaf, roasted vegetables, or even crispy falafel if you want a heartier spread. A simple side of olives or pickled vegetables adds a salty, tangy contrast that livens up the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the kebabs deconstructed on a large platter, allowing everyone to build their own wraps with salad and flatbread. Alternatively, arrange kebab skewers on a bed of couscous for a more elegant buffet-style presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked kofta kebabs and salad separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps textures intact and flavors fresh for up to 2 days, making for an easy next-day lunch or snack.
Freezing
The uncooked kofta mixture can be shaped and frozen before grilling. Wrap the skewers individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as directed.
Reheating
To reheat cooked kebabs, warm them gently in a pan over low heat or in the oven to retain moisture and charred goodness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat and rob it of texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken or turkey instead of beef or lamb?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey can be a lighter alternative, though they may require a bit more moisture like adding a spoonful of yogurt or olive oil to keep the kebabs juicy.
What can I use if I don’t have skewers?
You can still shape the meat into small patties or logs and grill them directly on a grill pan or baking sheet. Skewers just make turning and serving easier but are not essential.
How spicy is this Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe?
The recipe itself balances warmth from spices like cumin and paprika without strong heat. If you want more kick, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or serve with spicy harissa sauce on the side.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The kebabs and salad are naturally gluten-free, but make sure to choose gluten-free flatbread or serve with lettuce wraps if you need to avoid gluten altogether.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, the salad can be made a few hours ahead. Just add the dressing right before serving to keep it fresh and crisp without sogginess.
Final Thoughts
This Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh ingredients, bold spices, and homestyle cooking that feels both authentic and inviting. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a lively gathering. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how effortlessly it captures the magic of Middle Eastern flavors right in your kitchen.
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Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Description
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs are flavorful ground meat skewers seasoned with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Grilled to perfection and served alongside a fresh cucumber and tomato salad with herbs and lemon dressing, accompanied by warm flatbread, this dish offers a vibrant, satisfying meal perfect for gatherings or a delicious family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Kofta Kebabs
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad
- 2 cups chopped cucumber
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- 4 pita or flatbreads
- Optional: Yogurt or tahini sauce
Instructions
- Mix the Kofta Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the Kofta: Divide the meat mixture into 8 equal portions. Take each portion and mold it around a skewer into a long sausage-like shape, ensuring it adheres well.
- Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking and a nice char on all sides until the meat is cooked through.
- Prepare the Salad: While the koftas are grilling, in a bowl, mix chopped cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, fresh mint, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to combine and let the flavors meld.
- Warm the Flatbreads: Warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill or in a pan until soft and pliable, ready to serve alongside the kebabs and salad.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the hot kofta kebabs with the fresh salad and warm flatbread. Optionally, accompany with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for extra flavor.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
- Ground lamb gives a richer flavor, but beef works well for a milder taste.
- Feel free to add chopped chili or cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kofta.
- The salad can be prepared ahead of time to allow flavors to develop.
- For gluten-free option, serve with gluten-free flatbreads or lettuce wraps.
- Leftover kofta can be refrigerated and reheated gently on a grill or pan.
