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Home›Appetizers & Sides

🥗 Appetizers & Sides

Start your feast with creamy hummus, smoky baba ganoush, Greek saganaki, Indian samosas, and Moroccan zaalouk - small plates with big flavor.

190 recipes

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Persian · Appetizers
Smoked Silk Mirza Ghasemi (میرزا قاسمی) — Silky smoked eggplant with tomato, garlic, and eggs
From Iran’s Caspian Gilan region, Mirza Ghasemi is a smoky eggplant dish enriched with garlic, tomato, and softly set eggs. This version leans into deep char and a saffron finish for a glossy, silky texture.
60 min 4 235 cal

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Borani Kadu — Saffron-Infused Zucchini and Yogurt Dip - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Borani Kadu (بورانی کدو) — Saffron-Infused Zucchini and Yogurt Dip

Borani Kadu is a classic Persian yogurt dip popular since the Qajar era, built on the balance of “hot” and “cold” ingredients. Golden zucchini meets cool yogurt, perfumed with saffron and herbs for a bright, comforting mezze.

40 min 6 140 cal

Sabzi Khordan Mezze — Herb Platter with Herbed Feta and Jammy Eggs - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Sabzi Khordan Mezze (سبزی خوردن) — Herb Platter with Herbed Feta and Jammy Eggs

Sabzi Khordan is a beloved Persian table tradition of fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and salty cheeses enjoyed with bread. This mezze-style platter adds jammy eggs and herbed feta for a satisfying, shareable spread.

30 min 4 520 cal

Authentic Falafel Khaneghi — Crispy Herb-Flecked Chickpea Fritters - authentic middle-eastern recipe

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Lebanese · Appetizers

Authentic Falafel Khaneghi (فلافل خانگی) — Crispy Herb-Flecked Chickpea Fritters

Falafel Khaneghi is a beloved Levantine street-food classic made from soaked chickpeas, herbs, and warm spices. Fried until deeply golden, it delivers a shatteringly crisp crust with a tender, green-speckled center.

40 min 6 365 cal

Persian Moutabal with Kashk — Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Persian Moutabal with Kashk (متبل با کشک) — Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip

This Persian-leaning moutabal blends fire-roasted eggplant with tangy kashk for a deeper, more luxurious bite. It keeps the Levantine spirit of tahini and lemon while adding an Iranian dairy accent often found in hearty dips and stews.

55 min 6 165 cal

Dolmeh Tokhm Morgh — Persian-Style Stuffed Eggs with Tangy Herb Filling - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Dolmeh Tokhm Morgh (دلمه تخم مرغ) — Persian-Style Stuffed Eggs with Tangy Herb Filling

Dolmeh Tokhm Morgh is a Persian mazzeh that treats hard-boiled eggs like a delicate “dolmeh,” filled with a silky yolk cream. Mustard and vinegar add a bright tang, while parsley keeps it fresh and elegant for gatherings.

32 min 6 155 cal

Tan Mahi Angoshti — Crispy Persian Finger-Sized Tuna Fritters - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Tan Mahi Angoshti (تن ماهی انگشتی) — Crispy Persian Finger-Sized Tuna Fritters

Tan Mahi Angoshti are modern Persian tuna fritters shaped like little fingers and fried until crisp and golden. They’re a popular home snack for quick gatherings, often served with ketchup or pickles for dipping.

35 min 4 430 cal

Polo Tupi — Crispy Saffron Herb Rice Balls with Molten Cheese - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Polo Tupi (پلو توپی) — Crispy Saffron Herb Rice Balls with Molten Cheese

Polo Tupi is a modern Persian-inspired snack that borrows the aroma of saffron rice and the freshness of sabzi herbs, then turns them into crisp, golden rice balls. A gooey mozzarella center makes it a crowd-pleasing fusion bite for parties and family tables.

60 min 6 520 cal

Stuffed Grape Leaves — Herb-Scented Persian Dolmeh - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Stuffed Grape Leaves (دلمه برگ مو) — Herb-Scented Persian Dolmeh

Dolmeh Barg-e Mo is a beloved Persian mezze served to honor guests, especially in spring when herbs are abundant. Tender grape leaves are wrapped around rice, onions, and fragrant greens, then gently simmered until perfumed and soft.

105 min 6 285 cal

Sibe Zamini Ba Siah Daneh — Persian-Style Spiced Buttered Potatoes - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Sibe Zamini Ba Siah Daneh (سیب زمینی با سیاه دانه) — Persian-Style Spiced Buttered Potatoes

A rustic Persian appetizer where boiled potatoes are glazed in saffron-hued butter with turmeric, chili, and nutty nigella seeds. It echoes Silk Road pantry spices—simple ingredients turned fragrant and deeply comforting.

35 min 4 240 cal

Agha Koocooloo — Whimsical Persian Garden Vegetable Characters - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Agha Koocooloo (آقا کوچولو) — Whimsical Persian Garden Vegetable Characters

Agha Koocooloo is a playful Persian mezze-style platter where radishes, turnips, tomatoes, and potatoes are carved into tiny “little gentlemen.” Rooted in Iranian hospitality, it turns a simple salad course into edible art for gatherings.

65 min 6 145 cal

Smoky Muttabal Ba Badenjan with Kashk — Charred Eggplant Dip with Tangy Fermented Depth - authentic lebanese recipe

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Lebanese · Appetizers

Smoky Muttabal Ba Badenjan with Kashk (متبل باذنجان) — Charred Eggplant Dip with Tangy Fermented Depth

A Levantine-inspired muttabal built on deeply charred eggplant and sesame-rich tahini, finished with kashk for a cultured, tangy lift. It’s a luxurious mezze that bridges Eastern Mediterranean smoke with the fermented complexity loved across West Asia.

70 min 6 185 cal

Khuzestani Falafel — The Spicy, Ultra-Crispy Soul of Abadan - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Khuzestani Falafel (فلافل آبادانی) — The Spicy, Ultra-Crispy Soul of Abadan

Born in the port city of Abadan in Khuzestan, these falafels are famously spicy, herb-flecked, and shatteringly crisp. Street vendors serve them hot in soft bread with pickles and sauces, reflecting the region’s Gulf-side flavors.

805 min 6 360 cal

Six Classic Persian Hors d’Oeuvres — Mid-Century Tehran-Style Appetizer Platter - authentic persian recipe

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Persian · Appetizers

Six Classic Persian Hors d’Oeuvres (شیش نوع اردور ساده) — Mid-Century Tehran-Style Appetizer Platter

A nostalgic “sheesh noe ordor-e sadeh” platter reflects mid-century Persian entertaining: elegant, bite-sized, and neatly arranged. These six canapés balance creamy, briny, and tangy flavors for a refined tea-party or cocktail table.

35 min 12 220 cal

Chicken & Almond Salad — Creamy Persian hors d’oeuvre with lemon and toasted nuts - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Chicken & Almond Salad (سالاد مرغ و بادام) — Creamy Persian hors d’oeuvre with lemon and toasted nuts

A modern Persian hors d’oeuvre, this chicken salad pairs silky mayonnaise with bright lemon and the earthy crunch of toasted almonds. Served chilled with lemon slices, it’s a popular elegant starter for gatherings and buffet-style meals.

35 min 6 330 cal

Sabzi va Panir — Persian Herb and Feta Cheese Spread - authentic persian recipe

easy

Persian · Appetizers

Sabzi va Panir (سبزی و پنیر) — Persian Herb and Feta Cheese Spread

A classic element of the Persian sofreh, sabzi va panir pairs crisp mixed herbs with tangy feta and walnuts for a bright, communal bite. It’s traditionally scooped with lavash and served alongside radish, olives, and scallions.

20 min 6 235 cal

Santorini Fava Purée — Creamy Greek yellow split pea mezze - authentic greek recipe

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Greek · Appetizers

Santorini Fava Purée (Φάβα Σαντορίνης) — Creamy Greek yellow split pea mezze

A Santorini classic made from yellow split peas slowly simmered with onion and olive oil until silky. Served warm or at room temperature, it’s a staple mezze that highlights the island’s humble, legume-based cooking.

65 min 6 260 cal

Tomatokeftedes — Santorini Tomato Fritters with Herbs - authentic greek recipe

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Greek · Appetizers

Tomatokeftedes (Τοματοκεφτέδες) — Santorini Tomato Fritters with Herbs

Tomatokeftedes are Santorini’s iconic tomato fritters, born from the island’s intensely sweet, sun-dried tomatoes and simple pantry staples. Crisp-edged and herbaceous, they’re a classic meze served hot with cooling yogurt or feta.

40 min 4 315 cal

Htipiti — Greek Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Spread - authentic greek recipe

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Greek · Appetizers

Htipiti (Χτυπητή) — Greek Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Spread

Htipiti is a classic Greek meze from northern Greece, blending salty feta with sweet roasted red pepper and a gentle chili kick. Served in tavernas with warm pita, it’s a bold, creamy spread meant for sharing.

35 min 6 165 cal

Taramasalata — Greek Fish Roe Dip with Lemon - authentic greek recipe

easy

Greek · Appetizers

Taramasalata (Ταραμοσαλάτα) — Greek Fish Roe Dip with Lemon

Taramasalata is a classic Greek meze made from salted fish roe whipped into a pale, airy dip with lemon and olive oil. Often served during Lent and alongside seafood, it’s prized for its briny depth and bright citrus lift.

15 min 6 210 cal

Tirokafteri — Greek Spicy Whipped Feta Dip - authentic greek recipe

easy

Greek · Appetizers

Tirokafteri (Τυροκαυτερή) — Greek Spicy Whipped Feta Dip

Tirokafteri is a classic Greek meze made by whipping feta with roasted peppers, olive oil, and a touch of heat. Served across Greece in tavernas, it’s prized for its creamy, tangy bite alongside warm bread and grilled meats.

25 min 6 220 cal

Skordalia — Greek Garlic and Potato Dip - authentic greek recipe

easy

Greek · Appetizers

Skordalia (Σκορδαλιά) — Greek Garlic and Potato Dip

Skordalia is a classic Greek mezze of silky potato whipped with garlic and olive oil, often served with fried fish or vegetables. Its bold, pungent flavor reflects Greece’s love of garlic-forward dips alongside simple, seasonal foods.

45 min 6 220 cal

Melitzanosalata — Greek Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip - authentic greek recipe

easy

Greek · Appetizers

Melitzanosalata (Μελιτζανοσαλάτα) — Greek Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip

Melitzanosalata is a classic Greek meze made from fire-roasted eggplant mashed with olive oil, lemon, and garlic. Traditionally served with warm pita and olives, its signature flavor comes from smoky charred skins and bright citrus.

60 min 6 165 cal

Kolokithokeftedes — Greek Zucchini and Feta Fritters - authentic greek recipe

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Greek · Appetizers

Kolokithokeftedes (Κολοκυθοκεφτέδες) — Greek Zucchini and Feta Fritters

Kolokithokeftedes are beloved Greek zucchini fritters, especially common on Crete and in summer meze spreads. Grated zucchini is salted, drained, then mixed with feta, herbs, and fried until crisp and golden.

45 min 4 430 cal

🥗 Appetizers & Sides

Smoked Silk Mirza Ghasemi (میرزا قاسمی) — Silky smoked eggplant with tomato, garlic, and eggs

Borani Kadu (بورانی کدو) — Saffron-Infused Zucchini and Yogurt Dip

Sabzi Khordan Mezze (سبزی خوردن) — Herb Platter with Herbed Feta and Jammy Eggs

Authentic Falafel Khaneghi (فلافل خانگی) — Crispy Herb-Flecked Chickpea Fritters

Persian Moutabal with Kashk (متبل با کشک) — Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip

Dolmeh Tokhm Morgh (دلمه تخم مرغ) — Persian-Style Stuffed Eggs with Tangy Herb Filling

Tan Mahi Angoshti (تن ماهی انگشتی) — Crispy Persian Finger-Sized Tuna Fritters

Polo Tupi (پلو توپی) — Crispy Saffron Herb Rice Balls with Molten Cheese

Stuffed Grape Leaves (دلمه برگ مو) — Herb-Scented Persian Dolmeh

Sibe Zamini Ba Siah Daneh (سیب زمینی با سیاه دانه) — Persian-Style Spiced Buttered Potatoes

Agha Koocooloo (آقا کوچولو) — Whimsical Persian Garden Vegetable Characters

Smoky Muttabal Ba Badenjan with Kashk (متبل باذنجان) — Charred Eggplant Dip with Tangy Fermented Depth

Khuzestani Falafel (فلافل آبادانی) — The Spicy, Ultra-Crispy Soul of Abadan

Six Classic Persian Hors d’Oeuvres (شیش نوع اردور ساده) — Mid-Century Tehran-Style Appetizer Platter

Chicken & Almond Salad (سالاد مرغ و بادام) — Creamy Persian hors d’oeuvre with lemon and toasted nuts

Sabzi va Panir (سبزی و پنیر) — Persian Herb and Feta Cheese Spread

Santorini Fava Purée (Φάβα Σαντορίνης) — Creamy Greek yellow split pea mezze

Tomatokeftedes (Τοματοκεφτέδες) — Santorini Tomato Fritters with Herbs

Htipiti (Χτυπητή) — Greek Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Spread

Taramasalata (Ταραμοσαλάτα) — Greek Fish Roe Dip with Lemon

Tirokafteri (Τυροκαυτερή) — Greek Spicy Whipped Feta Dip

Skordalia (Σκορδαλιά) — Greek Garlic and Potato Dip

Melitzanosalata (Μελιτζανοσαλάτα) — Greek Smoky Roasted Eggplant Dip

Kolokithokeftedes (Κολοκυθοκεφτέδες) — Greek Zucchini and Feta Fritters