What to serve with shawarma
Discover the Perfect Side Dishes for Shawarma
There’s a certain joy in savoring a well-prepared shawarma. Its unique blend of spices and tender meat, all wrapped up in a soft, warm pita, is a gastronomic delight that hails from the Middle East. However, to make your shawarma experience even more memorable, consider pairing it with the perfect side dishes. Here are some of the best options:
Refreshing Salads
One of the best ways to balance the richness of shawarma is by serving it alongside a refreshing salad. A traditional Middle Eastern salad, known as Tabbouleh, is an excellent choice. Made from fresh parsley, mint, bulgur, tomatoes, onions, and a lemony dressing, Tabbouleh offers a refreshing tang that complements the flavors of shawarma. Other salad options could be a cucumber salad or a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette.
Delectable Dips
There’s nothing quite like a savory dip to accompany your shawarma. Hummus, a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon is an absolute favorite. The smoothness of hummus pairs well with the aromatic spices of shawarma. Another great option is Baba Ganoush, a smoky eggplant dip that’s also a Middle Eastern classic.
Rice Dishes
Rice dishes also make a great side for shawarma. A simple, fragrant pilaf can soak up the juices from the shawarma and provide a comforting counterpoint to the spices. Another option is Mujaddara, a lentil and rice dish that’s a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine.
Roasted Vegetables
Adding roasted vegetables to your shawarma spread not only provides a vibrant array of colors but also adds different textures and flavors. You can roast a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and sweet potatoes, and season them with the same spices used in your shawarma for a harmonious feast.
In conclusion, a good shawarma experience is not complete without the perfect side dishes. Whether it’s a refreshing salad, a delectable dip, a fragrant rice dish, or some roasted vegetables, these sides can elevate your shawarma to a whole new level of deliciousness.
