Three Delicious Recipes inspired by Arabic Cuisine Featuring Olives as a Key Ingredient

three delicious recipes inspired by Arabic cuisine, featuring olives as a key ingredient.

1. Arabic Olive and Za’atar Manakish (Flatbread)

Manakish is a popular Levantine flatbread often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. This version combines za’atar (a Middle Eastern spice blend) and olives for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon instant yeast
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup za’atar (thyme-based spice mix)
• 1/4 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil (for brushing)
• Sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Knead until a soft dough forms. Cover and let it rise for 1 hour.
2. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Divide the dough into small balls and roll them out into flat circles.
3. Mix za’atar with 1/4 cup olive oil to create a spreadable paste. Spread this mixture over the dough circles.
4. Sprinkle sliced olives and sesame seeds (if using) on top.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Serve warm with labneh (strained yogurt) or fresh vegetables.

2. Arabic Chicken Tagine with Olives and Preserved Lemon

This Moroccan-inspired dish is rich, aromatic, and perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of olives and preserved lemons is a classic in Arabic cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted
• 1 preserved lemon, rinsed and chopped (or zest of 1 fresh lemon)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a tagine or deep skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken on both sides, then remove and set aside.
2. In the same pan, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
4. Add the olives and preserved lemon (or lemon zest). Cook for another 10 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and parsley. Serve with couscous or warm bread.

3. Arabic Olive and Fattoush Salad

Fattoush is a refreshing Levantine salad that’s perfect for summer. This version includes olives for an extra burst of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, arugula, or spinach)
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pitted green olives, halved
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 pita breads, toasted and broken into pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sumac
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, mint, and parsley.
2. Add the toasted pita pieces to the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately as a side dish or light meal. This salad pairs well with grilled meats or hummus.

These recipes showcase the rich flavors of Arabic cuisine, with olives playing a starring role.