From the communal spirit of mezze to the delightful components that make up a Mezze Bowl, discover how this vibrant dish has become an integral part of my culinary journey, offering a canvas for creativity and a gateway to unforgettable flavors.
From the moment I was introduced to the concept of mezze, I was captivated by its communal spirit and the joy it brings to shared meals. Mezze, with its origins in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, embodies the art of savoring small plates bursting with flavor. The tradition of sharing these delectable dishes with loved ones creates a convivial atmosphere that fosters connection and celebration.
Mezze, which translates to “snack” or “taste” in Arabic, is a style of dining characterized by sharing small, flavorful dishes. Originating from the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, mezze embodies the spirit of community and conviviality. Traditionally, these small plates are enjoyed with friends and family, creating a social atmosphere where everyone can savor a variety of flavors.
Within the rich tapestry of mezze, the mezze bowl stands out as a true masterpiece. It showcases a harmonious fusion of diverse components that excite the senses and transport me to faraway lands with each bite. Comprising a delightful base, a medley of dips and spreads, vibrant vegetables, and an array of toppings, the mezze bowl is a canvas for culinary creativity.
Here’s how I created my bowl:
- Base: I find solace in the hearty and wholesome base of a mezze bowl. Whether it’s the nuttiness of bulgur wheat, the comforting embrace of couscous, or the nourishing goodness of quinoa, the base provides a sturdy foundation for the myriad flavors that follow.
- Dips and Spreads: As I dip my pita bread or crudités into the velvety depths of hummus, baba ganoush, or tzatziki, I feel a sense of indulgence and satisfaction. These silky spreads lend a creamy and luxurious element to the mezze bowl, amplifying the sensory experience.
- Vibrant Vegetables: The vibrant colors and crisp textures of fresh vegetables bring joy to my mezze bowl. I used a variety of vegetables with some cooked and others raw. Sweet bell peppers roasted with onions, zucchini, and bell peppers in an earthy and spicy Homemade Moroccan Spice Blend balances out some of the lighter flavors in the bowl. I also added crunchy slices of radish and crispy cucumbers to cool down the bowl.
- Pita: Add in slices of pita bread to be the vehicle to hold the different veggies and dips in one place.
The beauty of the mezze bowl lies in its versatility and adaptability. You can unleash your creativity and customize your mezze bowl according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Experiment with different flavor combinations, explore regional variations, and let your culinary instincts guide you as you assemble your mezze masterpiece.
Mezze Bowl
Ingredients
For the Quinoa:
- 1 c quinoa, rinsed
- 2 c water
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the roasted veggies:
- 1 Tbsp Moroccan Spice Blend
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 yellow squash, chopped
- 1 small red onion, chopped
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
For the filling:
- 1 recipe hummus
- 1 recipe Baba Ghanouj
- 1 recipe tzatiki
For the Toppings:
- 4 red radishes, sliced
- 2 Persian cucumbers, sliced
- Sweet and Spicy Peppadew peppers
- Pita Bread
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a bowl, combine the bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, red onion, spice blend, and olive oil. Toss to combine well.
- Transfer to a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat.
- Roast for 25 minutes.
- Meanwhile, to make the quinoa, combine the quinoa, water, and salt in a medium sized pot over high heat.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is cooked.
- Let rest in steam for 5 minutes.
To Assemble:
- Layer the bottom of the bowl with 1/4c cooked quinoa.
- Top it off with roasted veggies, hummus, baba ghanoukj, and tzatziki sauce.
- Finally add in the cucumbers, peppadew peppers, radishes, and slices of pita bread.
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