Hey friend, if you’re craving something bursting with vibrant spices, juicy grilled meat, and fresh, zesty sides, this Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread recipe is your new go-to. Picture tender, flavorful kofta kebabs, packed with aromatic herbs and spices, paired with a crisp salad and soft flatbread that’s perfect for scooping and wrapping. Trust me, this dish brings the warmth and excitement of Middle Eastern flavors right to your kitchen — and it’s easier to make than you’d think!
Why You’ll Love Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread
This dish isn’t just food—it’s an experience:
Versatile: Perfect for casual family dinners, weekend cookouts, or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ground meat and pantry spices that deliver big flavor without costing a fortune.
Quick and Easy: Simple prep and straightforward cooking steps mean less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying.
Customizable: Love spice? Add chili flakes or cayenne. Prefer milder? Tone down the heat and add more herbs.
Crowd-Pleasing: A blend of savory, fresh, and tangy flavors that’s sure to win over kids and adults alike.
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Ingredients in Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread
Let’s break down the essentials:
Ground Meat (beef, lamb, or a mix): The hearty base that absorbs all those rich spices.
Onion and Garlic: Build savory depth and aroma.
Fresh Parsley and Mint: Brighten the kebabs with fresh herbal notes.
Warm Spices (cumin, coriander, cinnamon): Signature Middle Eastern flavors that make each bite unforgettable.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that ties it all together.
Flatbread: Soft and pillowy, perfect for wrapping or dipping.
Salad Ingredients: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, fresh parsley, and a tangy lemon-olive oil dressing.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions for Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread
Ready to make magic? Let’s go!
Mix the Kofta
In a bowl, combine ground meat with finely chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, and spices. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all those fragrant flavors.
Shape the Kebabs
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into long, slender logs around skewers or simply form patties if you prefer.
Preheat the Grill or Pan
Get your grill or skillet hot and ready to get that perfect char and sizzle.
Cook the Kebabs
Grill or pan-fry the kofta kebabs for about 4-5 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked through.
Prepare the Salad
Toss chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, and red onion in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Warm the Flatbread
Heat flatbread on the grill or stovetop until soft and pliable.
Serve and Assemble
Serve the kofta kebabs alongside fresh salad and warm flatbread. Scoop, wrap, and enjoy every flavorful bite.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes
How to Serve Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread
Try these tasty pairings:
- Hummus or tzatziki: Creamy dips that add richness.
- Pickled vegetables: For a tangy crunch contrast.
- Rice pilaf or couscous: To bulk up the meal.
- Grilled veggies: Like peppers or zucchini for smoky sweetness.
Presentation tip: Serve everything on a large platter with fresh herbs sprinkled on top for a beautiful spread.
Additional Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat: Keeps your kofta tender, not dense.
- Soak wooden skewers: Prevents burning on the grill.
- Add pine nuts or chopped walnuts: For a nice crunch inside the kofta.
- Make the salad ahead: Flavors meld beautifully after resting a bit.
- Try different meats: Turkey or chicken work for a lighter version.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I bake the kofta instead of grilling?
A1: Yes! Bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q2: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
A2: Dried herbs work, but use less—about a third of fresh amounts.
Q3: Can I prepare kofta ahead of time?
A3: Absolutely. Form kebabs, refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Keep in airtight containers in the fridge for 2-3 days. Reheat gently.
Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A5: Yes, if you serve with gluten-free flatbread or lettuce wraps.
Q6: Can I freeze the uncooked kofta?
A6: Yes, freeze shaped kebabs on a tray, then transfer to bags. Thaw before cooking.
Q7: What’s the best meat ratio for kofta?
A7: A mix of lamb and beef (50/50) is classic, but all beef works great too.
Q8: Can I add spices like paprika or chili powder?
A8: Definitely! Adjust to your taste for extra warmth or heat.
Q9: How do I keep flatbread soft?
A9: Wrap in foil and warm in the oven, or cover with a damp cloth after heating.
Q10: What’s the best side salad to pair?
A10: A fresh tabbouleh or fattoush salad adds lovely brightness.
Conclusion
There you have it—Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread that deliver a fantastic balance of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or hosting friends, this dish will bring warmth and joy to the table. Ready to dive into these tasty bites? Let’s get grilling!
Print
Middle Eastern Kofta Kebabs with Salad and Flatbread
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
Flavorful Middle Eastern spiced ground meat kofta kebabs served with a fresh salad and warm flatbread, perfect for a hearty and balanced meal.
Ingredients
- 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)
- 4 pita or flatbreads
- 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
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each around a skewer into a long sausage shape.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely charred.
- Meanwhile, prepare the salad by mixing cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, mint, parsley, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill or in a pan.
- Serve kebabs with salad and flatbread. Optionally, add a side of yogurt or tahini sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, soak skewers to prevent burning.
- Use lean ground meat to reduce fat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kebab with salad and flatbread
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg