All posts tagged: SUMMER

No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake

No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake

Happy National Cheesecake Day! July 30th is finally here, and we’re celebrating my absolute favorite dessert holiday with a true showstopper! To match this summer’s hottest dessert trend, I’m bringing you a recipe that is guaranteed to make your mouth water: a legendary No-Bake Dubai Chocolate Cheesecake! This sensational creation brings together the best of both worlds. Picture the signature crunch of golden, toasted kataifi (shredded pastry), the velvety elegance of rich pistachio cream, and decadent dark chocolate—all folded into a refreshingly creamy no-bake cheesecake filling. It’s a luxurious taste sensation that comes together in no time, completely oven-free. Get ready for an explosion of flavor in every bite. Let’s celebrate and indulge!

Flaó de Ibiza - Mint Cheesecake

Flaó de Ibiza – Mint Cheesecake

Have you ever tried Flaó de Ibiza, the iconic Balearic mint cheesecake? It starts with a unique, sugar-free shortcrust pastry spiked with ground anise seeds and anise liqueur. On top sits a rich, velvety filling made of goat’s cheese, ricotta, fresh lemon zest, eggs, sugar, and the real star of the show: fresh mint (hierbabuena). After chilling overnight in the fridge, dust it with powdered sugar just before serving. If you love a bold sweet-and-savory flavor combination, this legendary Ibizan cheesecake will blow you away. Give it a try and watch it melt in your mouth!

Crispy Middle Eastern Eggplant Schnitzel

Crispy Middle Eastern Eggplant Schnitzel

Imagine this: a golden-brown, ultra-crispy crust that cracks perfectly with your very first bite. And inside? A melt-in-your-mouth, creamy eggplant core bursting with the warm, aromatic flavors of my Homemade Ras el Hanout Spice Mix. Forget everything you’ve ever heard about soggy or bitter eggplant. These crispy Middle Eastern eggplant schnitzels are a total game-changer for your dinner plate—whether you follow a full-time plant-based diet or simply want to try something exciting and delicious!

Authentic Ensaimada de Mallorca Recipe

Authentic Ensaimada de Mallorca Recipe

Have you ever walked through the Palma de Mallorca airport and noticed passengers desperately clutching mysterious, octagonal cardboard boxes? No, they aren’t carrying secret island treasure – well, actually, they kind of are! Those iconic boxes hold the ultimate Balearic indulgence: the Authentic Ensaimada de Mallorca. If you’ve ever visited this sun-drenched Mediterranean paradise, you already know why travelers fight for overhead bin space just to bring a single pastry home. As a long-time travel enthusiast who has explored Mallorca for over 30 years, this island is my favorite European getaway. But you don’t need a boarding pass to experience its culinary magic. Today, I’m bringing those holiday vibes straight to your kitchen with the Authentic Ensaimada de Mallorca recipe.

Mercimek Köftesi – Turkish Vegan Red Lentil Kofte

Mercimek Köftesi – Turkish Vegan Red Lentil Kofte

Looking for the ultimate fresh, vegan finger food for your next party, buffet, or brunch? Then you absolutely need to try my Mercimek Köftesi – Turkish Vegan Red Lentil Kofte, deliciously seasoned, plant-based Turkish red lentil patties! I love bringing these to family gatherings and special occasions. Because of their beautiful, vibrant presentation, they are always a massive hit—and they easily win over even the meat-lovers in the room! Trust me, they are simply “kofte-licious” and vanish within minutes. Guests literally crowd around the platter and just can’t keep their hands off them. Packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients, this healthy vegan crowd-pleaser is also the perfect addition to your summer picnic basket or a quick weekday snack. Want to impress your family and friends this Easter? Serve up this fresh, crisp, and vibrant Mediterranean delicacy!

Panir Hendevaneh – Persian Watermelon and Feta Skewers

Panir Hendevaneh – Persian Watermelon and Feta Skewers

Looking for a light, colorful, and refreshing appetizer that comes together in minutes? These Persian Watermelon Feta Skewers, known as Panir Hendevaneh, are the perfect summer snack for barbecues, picnics, garden parties, or family gatherings. The combination of sweet watermelon, salty feta cheese, and crisp cucumber is simple but incredibly delicious. Finished with a fresh mint leaf, these bite-sized skewers are cooling, beautiful to serve, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting friends to watch football, enjoying a sunny afternoon in the garden, or preparing an easy appetizer for your next cookout, these Persian-inspired skewers are guaranteed to disappear quickly.

Piyaz – Giant White Bean Salad | سالاد لوبیا سفید

Piyaz – Giant White Bean Salad | سالاد لوبیا سفید

If you’re looking for a fresh, healthy, and protein-packed salad, you have to try Piyaz. This traditional Turkish white bean salad is also a beloved dish in many Persian homes, where it’s known as Salad-e Loobia Sefid (سالاد لوبیا سفید). Although many people associate Piyaz with Turkey, this simple yet flavorful bean salad has been enjoyed across the region for generations. One of the most famous versions is Antalya Usulü Piyaz, a specialty from the Turkish city of Antalya. What makes it so special is its rich, tangy dressing that coats every single bean with incredible flavor. Traditionally, the beans are almost completely covered in the dressing. In my version, I use a little less dressing to let the fresh vegetables and creamy white beans shine while still keeping the authentic taste. Piyaz is everything you want in a salad—fresh, satisfying, nutritious, and incredibly easy to make. It works perfectly as a mezze, a side dish for köfte, grilled meats, or kebabs, or as a light vegetarian lunch or dinner. Thanks to the white beans, …

Cake Morgh – Sandwich Cake with Chicken Spread for Your World Cup Party

Cake Morgh – Sandwich Cake with Chicken Spread for Your World Cup Party

Looking for a unique and delicious recipe for your World Cup party, game day gathering, birthday celebration, or summer picnic? This Persian Chicken Sandwich Cake, known as Cake Morgh, is a beautiful make-ahead party dish that is guaranteed to impress your guests. Popular throughout Iran, Cake Morgh is a savory sandwich cake made with layers of soft bread, creamy chicken filling, fresh vegetables, and a decorative topping. It is traditionally served at family celebrations, birthdays, garden parties, and special occasions, where it often becomes the centerpiece of the table. Watch my preparation on Instagram

Strawberry Donuts with Labneh-Rosewater Glaze

Strawberry Donuts with Labneh-Rosewater Glaze

You know that feeling when a donut is practically screaming your name? Eating it isn’t just a choice; it’s a matter of culinary self-defense. You simply cannot resist. That is exactly how we feel about these super light, fluffy Strawberry Donuts with Labneh-Rosewater Glaze. Honestly, they are a total game-changer! Calling all strawberry lovers: these donuts are packed with juicy strawberries inside and topped with even more fresh berries on out. I’ve created a lighter version for you—they only contain 3 tablespoons of sugar and are baked right in the oven, not fried.