Lebanese meze is rich in vegetarian dishes. It is an array of sampling size dishes, mostly falling into the same “healthy” bracket, as most recipes contain vegetables, nuts, olive oil, fresh herbs and seeds.

The most popular dish is hummus, but there are also fattoosh, tabouleh, baba ghanouj, fateh, falafel, shankleesh, fatayer silik, Loubieh bi Zeit and many more. So if you prefer vegetables over meat, it’s definitely worth visiting a Lebanese restaurant where vegetarian dishes are served in abundance.

Hindbeh bi zeit is one typical example of salad also falling in the meze category and using simple fresh ingredients. It can be quickly prepared at home. If you can’t find chicory in your region try to look for dandelions, both will result a light and simple salad, tangy with lemon juice and garnished with crisp onions.

Chicory salad – Hindbeh bi Zeit

Serves 4 – Preparation Time 20 minutes – Cooking Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 bunch of fresh green chicory, washed and chopped coarsely
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 cup onions, sliced
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp lemon juice
• Olive oil, to taste

Preparation

1. In a large pot, heat oil and add onions to fry. Let cook until golden. Reserve some for garnishing.
2. Add the chicory and mix until well incorporated.
3. Season with salt. Let cook, on low heat, for about 10 minutes.
4. Turn off the heat and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Serve at room temperature with olive oil and lemon wedges.

Another variation of the recipe  you can add sugar while frying the onions or make caramelized onions instead. You will love this salad with toasted pine nuts as well; sprinkle a handful at the end of your preparation.