Middle East Sector

introduction

Middle East Sector is a warm bowl of simple food. It mixes rice, beans, herbs, and lemon. You can make it fast. It feels fresh and full.

why make this recipe

You can make this dish for a quick meal. It costs little and gives good taste. It fits lunch, dinner, or a potluck. It also uses food you can find in most stores.

how to make Middle East Sector

You cook rice and mix it with chickpeas and fresh veg. You add olive oil, lemon, and a touch of spice. You toss all parts and let the mix sit for a short time. The dish tastes best warm or at room heat.

Ingredients :

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chopped tomato
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional)
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds (optional)

Directions :

1. Wash the rice and cook it with 2 cups of water. Let it cool a bit.
2. Put the chickpeas in a bowl. Add the chopped tomato, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked rice to the bowl with the veg and chickpeas.
5. Pour the dressing over the rice mix. Toss gently to blend.
6. Taste and add more salt, pepper, or lemon if you need.
7. If you like, add yogurt or nuts on top before you serve.

how to serve Middle East Sector

Serve in a wide bowl. Add a spoon of yogurt on top if you want. Put lemon wedges on the side. This dish goes well with flat bread or grilled meat.

how to store Middle East Sector

Put the dish in a sealed box. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not leave it out more than two hours. You can freeze the cooked rice and chickpeas for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before you reheat.

tips to make Middle East Sector

• Use fresh parsley for a bright taste.
• Let the rice cool a bit so the veg stays fresh.
• Taste the dressing before you add it. Add more lemon for a bright acid note.
• Warm the dish a little for a cozier meal.

variation (if any)

• Add chopped mint or dill for a fresh change.
• Use bulgur or quinoa instead of rice.
• Add roasted eggplant or bell pepper for more color.
• Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes. Skip the yogurt or use a plant yogurt.

Q: Can I use canned rice or precooked grain?
A: Yes. Use it to cut the cook time. Warm it before you mix.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Serve with flat bread, roasted meat, or a simple salad.

Q: Can I add meat?
A: Yes. Add grilled chicken, lamb, or beef strips on top.

Q: Is this dish good for a lunch box?
A: Yes. It keeps well and tastes good cold or warm.

Conclusion

For more on events and trends in the Middle East sector, see the Middle East Energy event page.

Middle East Sector

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• Author: olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A warm, fresh dish featuring rice, chickpeas, and vibrant vegetables, perfect for a quick meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup chopped tomato
• 1 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/2 cup chopped parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, crushed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (optional)
• 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds (optional)

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Instructions

1. Wash the rice and cook it with 2 cups of water. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, combine the chickpeas, chopped tomato, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked rice to the bowl with the vegetables and chickpeas.
5. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to blend.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon as needed.
7. If desired, add yogurt or nuts on top before serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature with yogurt and lemon wedges. Pairs well with flatbread or grilled meat.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling, Mixing
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 0mg