A Middle Eastern Potluck

MENU: A Middle Eastern Potluck

Drink

Middle Eastern Yogurt Coolers
This drink is inspired by ayran, or lightly salted yogurt over ice.

Main Course

Salt-Baked Branzino with Citrus, Fennel and Herbs
The salt crust seals in moisture, gently infusing the fish with the bright flavors of parsley, cilantro and rosemary.

Side Dishes

Golden Persian Rice
Persian rice gets its extraordinary crust, or tah dig, as it slow-cooks in a thin layer of oil. The crust is bolstered here by crunchy triangles of pita bread.

Crispy Potato Latkes
Writer Periel Aschenbrand learned how to make these onion-sweetened potato pancakes from her late grandmother.

Shredded Green Cabbage Salad with Lemon and Garlic
This light, tangy salad could not be simpler: shredded green cabbage tossed with lemon, garlic, olive oil and salt.

Braised Green Beans with Tomatoes and Garlic
Called loobyeh (pronounced LOO-beh), this comforting vegetable stew is a staple in Lebanon.

Dessert

Lebanese Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Caraway
Known as meghli, this dish is traditionally served at birthdays and holidays, including Christmas.