Author Description

When dining in Morocco, prepare to embark on a culinary journey where every table is adorned with a vibrant selection of small plates featuring cooked or cold salads, and an assortment of juices and smoothies. In Morocco, the term salad refers to both raw and cooked side dishes, including dips. These delicacies are not mere accompaniments to the iconic tagine, but they are rather the stars of the culinary repertoire, bursting with colors, textures, and layers of taste. These salads, will vary depending on the season, often featuring fresh seasonal produce, which celebrates the rich variety and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean diet. Moroccan salads are always artfully placed in small plates, encircling the main dish at the center of the table, and are eaten with small spoons or crusty Moroccan bread. The same fresh produce that dazzles in Moroccan salads also takes center stage in the creation of Moroccan juices. In Morocco, the most beloved beverages are Moroccan mint tea, and a variety of freshly squeezed juices and smoothies featuring seasonal fruits and vegetables. These refreshing beverages are often made at home, but they are also commonly found in street stalls that specialize in fresh juices, as well as in "Mahlabas," which are small neighborhood shops found on every street in Morocco, and that offer a wide selection of refreshments and snacks at an affordable price. Some of the most popular beverages served, include freshly squeezed orange juice and creamy avocado smoothies. In this cookbook, Flavors of Morocco created a guide that will help you discover a treasure trove of Moroccan salad and beverage recipes that celebrate the vibrant produce of each season. From traditional family heirlooms passed down through generations, to innovative interpretations that reflect the evolving culinary landscape, these recipes will captivate your palate and inspire your creativity in the kitchen. Curated by Moroccan cuisine ambassador, Alia