Mediterranean side dishes are the heart of every meal. What’s better than a good main course? The side dishes that accompany it. Making the meal tenfold better. Being an authentic Mediterranean restaurant in Raleigh, NC, Al Baraka Market & Grill has mastered the art of crafting authentic sides that complement main dishes while standing out on their own. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome Mediterranean side dish to go with your meal or a well-thought-out Mediterranean catering menu, Al Baraka’s expert chefs have got you covered! Read on to explore the perfect pairings for your favorite main courses and discover sides that are simply exceptional on their own!
Why Mediterranean Side Dishes Are Perfect for Any Meal
Imagine something great—now imagine two great things coming together. That’s exactly what happens when you pair a Mediterranean side dish with your meal, transforming it from great to absolutely extraordinary! Here are a few reasons that make Mediterranean side dishes perfect for any meal:
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in healthy fats from ingredients like olive oil and tahini.
- High in fiber from legumes, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Packed with essential minerals and vitamins from fresh herbs, vegetables, and nuts.
- Supports heart health and overall well-being.
Bold and Distinctive Flavors
- Use aromatic Mediterranean spices like cumin, paprika, and sumac for depth of flavor.
- Combination of tangy, smoky, and earthy tastes from ingredients like lemon, garlic, and eggplant.
- Balanced sweetness from dried fruits like raisins or dates in some dishes.
Versatility Across Cuisines
- Pairs smoothly with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to seafood.
- Can be enjoyed as standalone dishes or shared as part of a mezze platter.
- Adaptable to different dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
Each of these points reinforces why Mediterranean side dishes are not just delicious but also elevate any dining experience.
The Best Mediterranean Side Dishes and What They Pair With
Healthy doesn’t necessarily mean bland. When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine, every dish at Al Baraka is cooked with healthy ingredients that provide great nutritional value. Here are some of the healthy Mediterranean side dishes at Al Baraka that taste incredible:
Classic Hummus
Hummus is a shining example of a healthy Mediterranean side dish. It combines chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, and garlic, packing it with plant-based protein, heart-healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here’s our advice on how to pair hummus with your meals:
- Pita bread
- Grilled meats and kabobs
- Fresh or roasted veggies
- Falafel
- Sandwiches and wraps
- Crackers or breadsticks
Lentil Rice
For a wholesome and filling option, lentil rice is an excellent choice. It is made with high-quality basmati rice and lentils, offering a perfect balance of carbohydrates and proteins. Even better? It provides sustained energy and includes fiber to support digestive health. Here’s how you can pair lentil rice with your meals:
- Grilled Chicken or Lamb
- Roasted Vegetables
- Kebabs
- Fresh Salads
- Yogurt or Tzatziki Sauce
- Grilled Fish
- Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
Not sure which Mediterranean sauce pairs best with your dishes? Check out our blog on Perfect Mediterranean Sauce Pairings for all the tasty inspiration you need!
Fattoush Salad
Fattoush salad is a simple chopped salad dressed in a lime vinaigrette. Its fresh vegetables, tangy lime dressing, and herbs like parsley and mint make it light and refreshing. The crisp textures and zesty flavors help to cleanse the palate between rich or heavy dishes, making it an excellent complement to Mediterranean meals. Al Baraka’s fattoush salad is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Here are some excellent pairings for your fattoush salad:
- Grilled meats like chicken, lamb, or beef
- Kabobs
- Grilled fish, shrimp, or other seafood
- Lentil rice or yellow rice
- Falafel
- Wraps, pita, or sandwiches
- As part of a mezze platter with hummus, baba ghanouj, and olives for a complete Mediterranean experience.
House Salad
Simple yet nutritious, the house salad features farm-fresh greens and vegetables, lightly dressed to maintain its natural flavors. This side dish is a great way to incorporate essential nutrients into your meal while keeping it light and refreshing. Pair Al Baraka’s house salad with:
- Grilled Chicken
- Fish Fillet
- Lamb Chops
- Couscous
- Spanakopita
- Falafel Wraps
- Stuffed Grape Leaves
Baba Ghanouj
Smoky and creamy, baba ghanouj is made from roasted eggplant blended with tahini, olive oil, and spices. Its rich, earthy flavor makes it a versatile side that enhances any Mediterranean meal. Pair Al Baraka’s baba ghanouj with:
- Grilled Lamb
- Shish Tawook
- Roasted Vegetables
- Pita Bread
- Falafel
- Kofta Kebabs
- Grilled Fish
Each of these healthy Mediterranean side dishes supports a balanced diet while delivering the bold, authentic flavors that Mediterranean cuisine is known for. Whether you’re looking for something hearty like lentil rice or refreshing like fattoush salad, these sides make it easy to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal.
How to Elevate Your Meals with Mediterranean Side Dishes
At Al Baraka Market & Grill, we proudly serve you real and halal Mediterranean cuisine. Our expertly prepared side dishes showcase the essence of Mediterranean cuisine and are made with traditional recipes and fresh, premium ingredients. Here’s how our authentic Mediterranean side dishes improve your meals:
Fresh Ingredients Only
We use the freshest vegetables, herbs, and legumes to create vibrant sides like smoky baba ghanouj and crisp house salad, ensuring natural goodness in every bite.
Perfect Pairings
Our sides perfectly complement any main course—hummus with pita or kebabs, fattoush salad to balance rich dishes, and lentil rice with roasted meats or stews.
Authentic Flavors
From hand-prepared falafel to perfectly roasted baba ghanouj, our sides honor traditional Mediterranean recipes with bold, authentic flavors.
Healthy Options
Nutrient-rich dishes like lentil rice and fattoush salad offer the perfect mix of health and taste.
Expertly Made, Ready to Serve
Our expert chefs prepare every dish with care, so all you need to do is order your favorite dish and enjoy it! Al Baraka’s sides bring authentic Mediterranean flavors to your table.
Final Thoughts
Mediterranean side dishes elevate your meals to heights that main courses alone can’t achieve. Whether treating yourself to a five-star feast or impressing guests, Mediterranean cuisine delivers every time. At Al Baraka, we bring the authentic flavors of the Middle East to your table with sides crafted from fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.Ready to experience the best Mediterranean side dishes? Visit Al Baraka Market & Grill today, and let us add a touch of Mediterranean magic to your meals!