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What to Serve with Mujadara (17 Best Side Dishes)

Mujadara is a traditional Lebanese dish made of rice, lentils, and caramelized onions.

But what do you serve with mujadara?

Mujadara pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled lamb, sauteed vegetables, hummus, tabbouleh, flatbreads, and yogurt. It also goes well with salads (such as fattoush or Lebanese cucumber salad), soups (such as lentil soup or chickpea soup), and stews (such as lamb stew or chicken stew).

In this article, I have included 17 side dish ideas that go well with mujadara.

What to Serve with Mujadara

These side dishes include both healthy and hearty options, so you can choose what to serve with mujadara based on your preference.

What to Serve with Mujadara?

There are many options when it comes to choosing a side dish for mujadara. You can go for a simple salad or cooked vegetables, or you can opt for something more substantial like meat or poultry. You can also choose to serve mujadara with bread or pita bread.

Mujadara
Source: themediterraneandish.com

Keep scrolling for more ideas!

1. Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh Salad
Source: cookieandkate.com

I simply LOVE tabbouleh salad!

It’s so flavorful and has a great texture.

It’s also pretty easy to make, which is always a bonus.

I like to serve it as a side dish on special occasions.

Here are a few tips for making a great tabbouleh salad:

  • Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
  • Soak the bulgur wheat in water for at least 30 minutes before adding the other ingredients.
  • Add plenty of lemon juice, olive oil, and salt to taste.

I hope you enjoy this tasty side dish as much as I do!

2. Spicy Roasted Cauliflower

Spicy Roasted Cauliflower
Source: thespruceeats.com

Sometimes you just need something spicy in your life.

This roasted cauliflower dish delivers on that front, while also being a healthy and delicious side.

It’s not too difficult to make, and the result is a flavorful and slightly crispy cauliflower.

I like to serve this dish with a simple protein, like grilled chicken or fish. It’s also great as a snack or appetizer.

Here are a few tips for making the perfect spicy roasted cauliflower:

  • Cut the cauliflower into uniform pieces so that they roast evenly.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the cauliflower will steam instead of roast.
  • If you want extra spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
  • Make sure to roast the cauliflower until it’s slightly browned and crispy.

3. Hummus

Hummus

Has hummus ever let anyone down?

I think not.

This dish is flavorful, creamy, and easy to make.

It’s the perfect side for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just having a quiet night in.

Plus, it’s healthy!

What more could you ask for?

When serving hummus with mujadara, I like to add a few slices of lemon to brighten up the flavors.

And if you’re feeling extra fancy, top it with some chopped parsley or paprika.

Trust me, your guests will be impressed.

4. Quinoa Salad

Kale and Quinoa Salad
Source: recipetineats.com

The reason I like to serve quinoa salad with mujadara is because it is a complete meal by itself.

It is flavorful, has a great texture, and is relatively easy to make.

Plus, it is a healthy dish that is high in protein and low in fat.

To make quinoa salad, I start by cooking the quinoa according to the package directions.

Once the quinoa is cooked, I add in chopped vegetables, herbs, and a dressing of my choice.

I like to use a vinaigrette or a lemon-based dressing.

I also add in some crumbled feta cheese for extra flavor.

Quinoa salad is a great dish to serve for lunch or dinner.

It can be served as a side dish or as a main course.

It is also a great dish to bring to potlucks or picnics.

5. Fattoush Salad

Fattoush Salad
Source: feelgoodfoodie.net

Another one of my favorite mujadara side dishes is fattoush salad.

Fattoush is a Levantine bread salad made with toasted or fried pita bread, vegetables, and a variety of herbs and spices.

The salad has a fresh, bright flavor and a crunchy texture from the pita bread.

It’s a relatively simple dish to make, but it’s perfect for dressing up a meal or taking to a potluck.

Here are a few tips for making the perfect fattoush salad:

  • Start with fresh, crisp vegetables. I like to use chopped romaine lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and green onions.
  • For the dressing, I like to use a combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and sumac. Sumac is a Middle Eastern spice that has a tangy, lemony flavor.
  • Make sure to add plenty of fresh herbs, like mint, parsley, and cilantro. This will really brighten up the flavor of the salad.
  • To add a little extra crunch, I like to top the salad with chopped nuts or crumbled feta cheese.

This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish.

It’s also a great way to use up any leftover pita bread you might have.

6. Crispy Falafel

Crispy Falafel
Source: cookieandkate.com

I love crispy falafel as a side dish because it packs a flavorful punch and is relatively easy to make.

The key to getting the perfect texture is to fry the falafel balls until they are nice and crispy on the outside.

Serve with a simple salad or some pita bread and you’ve got a delicious and healthy meal.

7. Tahini Sauce

Tahini Sauce
Source: cookieandkate.com

Tahini sauce goes well with mujadara because of its nutty, slightly sweet flavor.

It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a healthy, vegan-friendly option.

The sauce is easy to make, and can be either smooth or chunky depending on your preference.

I like to add a bit of lemon juice and garlic to my tahini sauce, and sometimes I’ll also add a pinch of cumin for an extra depth of flavor.

If you find the sauce too thick, you can thin it out with a little water.

Tahini sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used on all sorts of dishes.

I love it on grilled vegetables, falafel, and even on roasted potatoes.

Give it a try next time you’re looking for a flavorful, yet healthy, side dish.

8. Vegetable Stir-Fry

Vegetable Stir-Fry
Source: therecipecritic.com

Since you have to eat your greens anyway, why not make them taste good?

This vegetable stir-fry is a delicious way to do just that.

It’s packed with flavor, but it’s not too difficult to make.

Plus, the textures of the vegetables are really enjoyable.

Here are some tips for making the perfect vegetable stir-fry:

  • Make sure to cut the vegetables into uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
  • Stir-fry the vegetables over high heat so that they get a nice char.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different vegetables.

Just about any vegetable will taste good in this dish.

This stir-fry is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

It’s also a great side dish for a dinner party.

And when paired with mujadara or rice, it makes for a complete and satisfying meal.

9. Fried Rice

Vegetable Fried Rice
Source: simplyrecipes.com

You don’t have to include veggies here if you don’t want to, but they can really help to bulk up the dish and make it more filling.

I like to add garlic, onion, and green onion to my fried rice.

You can also add in some meat if you want, like chicken, shrimp, or beef.

Just make sure to cook the meat before adding it to the rice.

Fried rice is a great side dish to any meal, and it’s really easy to make. The key is to get the rice nice and crispy.

I like to use a wok for frying the rice, but you can use a pan if you don’t have one.

Just make sure to get it nice and hot before adding the rice.

If you want to add some extra flavor to your fried rice, you can try adding soy sauce, oyster sauce, or fish sauce.

Just start with a little bit and add more to taste.

You can also top your fried rice with a fried egg for a delicious and easy meal.

10. Quinoa Pilaf

Quinoa Pilaf with Toasted Almonds
Source: www.marthastewart.com

If you’re still not full after eating your mujadara, try this flavorful quinoa pilaf as a side dish.

It’s a bit more difficult to make than mujadara, but the texture and flavor are worth it.

Here are a few tips to help you make the perfect quinoa pilaf:

  • Toast the quinoa in a dry pan before adding any liquid. This will help bring out the nutty flavor of the quinoa.
  • Add plenty of spices to the quinoa while it’s cooking. I like to use cumin, paprika, and garlic powder.
  • If you want a bit of a crunch in your pilaf, try adding chopped nuts or seeds to the finished dish.

This quinoa pilaf is perfect for a winter dinner party.

It’s hearty and filling, but still light enough that your guests will be able to enjoy their main course.

11. Baked Beans

Baked Beans
Source: AllRecipes.com

If there’s one thing I know about baked beans, it’s that they’re delicious.

I mean, what’s not to love about a sweet and savory dish that’s packed with flavor?

And while they may seem like a simple side, there’s actually a lot that goes into making them just right.

The key to great baked beans is all in the seasoning.

You’ll want to use a combination of sweet and savory spices to really bring out the flavor.

And of course, don’t forget the bacon!

It may seem like a lot of work, but trust me, it’s worth it.

Texture is also important when it comes to baked beans.

You want them to be nice and thick, but not too mushy.

The perfect balance of texture can be achieved by cooking them slowly over low heat.

If you’re looking for tips on how to make the perfect baked beans, I would recommend checking out a few recipes online.

And if you’re ever in doubt, just remember that bacon makes everything better.

Baked beans are the perfect side dish for summer BBQs, potlucks, and picnics.

They’re also a great way to add some extra flavor to your weeknight dinners.

So go ahead and give them a try, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

12. Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
Source: thechunkychef.com

Macaroni and cheese as a side dish for mujadara is an excellent pairing because the creamy sauce and cheesy flavor complement the earthy spices in the rice dish.

This particular recipe is easy to follow and yields a creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese that is sure to please.

The key to getting the perfect texture is to cook the pasta al dente, so it retains some of its bite.

And be sure to use a good quality cheese for the sauce.

I like to use a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyere.

13. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Source: cafedelites.com

This might not be the absolute healthiest option out there, but mashed potatoes are definitely a delicious side dish.

They can be made with a variety of flavors, from garlic to cheesy, and they’re relatively easy to make.

The key to getting the perfect texture is to mash them until they’re nice and smooth.

And if you’re looking to impress, you can always top them with some chives or shredded cheese.

Serve them up at your next family dinner or holiday feast and enjoy!

14. Spaghetti Squash

Spaghetti Squash
Source: loveandlemons.com

Sometimes you just crave something healthy, flavorful and a little different.

Spaghetti squash is a great option for a side dish that satisfies all of those cravings.

It’s not too difficult to make, and the squash itself has a nice, firm texture.

Here are a few tips for making the perfect spaghetti squash:

  1. First, you’ll want to roast the squash. This brings out its natural sweetness and makes it nice and tender.
  2. Next, you’ll need to scrape out the “spaghetti” strands. This can be a little tricky, but a fork works well. Just insert it into the squash and twist.
  3. Finally, top it with your favorite sauce.

I like a simple marinara, but you could also go for a pesto or Alfredo.

This dish is perfect for a weekday dinner or a casual weekend get-together.

Give it a try next time you’re looking for something a little different!

15. Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Source: cookieandkate.com

Crunchy, sweet, and savory, these sweet potato fries are a delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

They’re easy to make, and can be tailored to your preferred level of sweetness or spice.

I like to add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a little extra flavor, but you can leave them plain if you prefer.

Serve them with ketchup, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

16. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Source: AllRecipes.com

This side dish goes great with mujadara!

Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious and easy way to add flavor and nutrition to your meal.

They are packed with vitamins and minerals, and their natural sweetness makes them a great addition to any savory dish.

  1. To roast sweet potatoes, simply preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Cut the potatoes into even slices, and toss with olive oil and your favorite spices.
  3. Spread them out on a baking sheet, and roast for 25-30 minutes.
  4. Enjoy!

17. Baked Sweet Potato

Baked Sweet Potato
Source: loveandlemons.com

The last recipe on this list is a baked sweet potato.

I love serving this dish because it is both healthy and delicious.

The sweet potato is covered in foil and baked in the oven, making it a very easy dish to prepare.

The foil helps to lock in the moisture, making the sweet potato very tender and soft.

I like to add a little bit of butter and brown sugar to the top of the potato, which gives it a great flavor.

This dish is perfect for a side dish at a family dinner or a holiday meal.

What Meat to Serve with Mujadara?

There are many options when it comes to what meat to serve with Mujadara. Some of the most popular options include chicken, lamb, beef, and fish. You can also mix and match different meats to create a unique dish. No matter what meat you choose, make sure that it is cooked properly to ensure the best flavor.

meats

I often get asked what kind of meat goes well with mujadara, and my answer is always the same: whatever you have on hand!

I’ve served mujadara with chicken, lamb, beef, and even tofu, and it always turns out delicious.

The key is to choose a protein that will complement the flavors of the dish without overwhelming them.

For chicken or lamb, I like to use a simple spice rub to give the meat some extra flavor.

For beef, I’ll usually just salt and pepper the meat before cooking it.

And for tofu, I like to marinate it in soy sauce and ginger for a little extra zing.

No matter what protein you choose, mujadara is sure to be a hit!

Is Mujadara good for you?

Mujadara is a healthy and filling dish that is perfect for a vegetarian or vegan diet.

It is high in fiber and protein, and low in fat.

This dish is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and magnesium.

sides

What to Serve with Mujadara (17 Best Side Dishes)

Mujadara pairs well with side dishes because it is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of different foods. It can be served with rice, bread, or even on its own as a main dish. Additionally, mujadara is a hearty dish that is filling and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Lebanese
Servings 4 people
Calories 388 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Tabbouleh Salad
  • Spicy Roasted Cauliflower
  • Hummus
  • Quinoa Salad
  • Fattoush Salad
  • Crispy Falafel
  • Tahini Sauce
  • Vegetable Stir-Fry
  • Fried Rice
  • Quinoa Pilaf
  • Baked Beans
  • Macaroni and Cheese
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Spaghetti Squash
  • Sweet Potato Fries
  • Roasted Sweet Potatoes
  • Baked Sweet Potato

Instructions
 

  • Pick any side dish from this list to serve with your Mujadara meal.
  • Prepare the ingredients according to the recipe.
  • Enjoy in no time!
Keyword What to Serve with Mujadara
CEO at Happy Muncher | benjamin@happymuncher.com | Website | + posts

Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.