Fluffy Steamed Plain Couscous
Perfectly steamed plain couscous—fluffy, separate grains, never sticky. The base for any tagine.
Dish type
side dish recipes
Browse 8 authentic Moroccan side dish recipes. Each dish includes scaled ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and prep times so you can cook with confidence.
Zaalouk Focaccia
Pillowy Italian focaccia gets a Moroccan makeover, topped generously with smoky zaalouk — the classic cooked eggplant and tomato salad — before baking until the crust turns golden and crisp. A bold, shareable bread that fuses two comfort-food traditions in one pan.
Moroccan Medley Salad Bowl
A colorful, hearty salad bowl bringing together Morocco's favorite fresh vegetables, chickpeas, and herbs, finished with a lemony cumin-spiced dressing. A vibrant, well-rounded bowl that works as a light lunch or a side to grilled meats.
Artichoke, Green Pea & Preserved Lemon Salad
A light, zesty salad combining tender artichoke hearts and sweet green peas with the bright, salty punch of preserved lemon. Tossed in a simple olive oil dressing with fresh herbs, it's a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish.
Crispy Harissa Chickpea Caesar Salad
A Moroccan-inspired spin on the classic Caesar: crunchy roasted chickpeas coated in spicy harissa stand in for croutons, tossed with crisp romaine and a garlicky, tangy dressing. Bold, spicy, and satisfying, this salad makes a great light lunch or side.
Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Sweet Chermoula
A show-stopping vegetarian centerpiece: a whole cauliflower slow-roasted until deeply golden and tender, basted with a sweet-and-savory chermoula of herbs, garlic, cumin, and a touch of honey. Dramatic to serve and packed with Moroccan flavor in every bite.
Zaalouk (Moroccan Smoky Eggplant Dip)
Zaalouk is a beloved Moroccan cooked salad of eggplant and tomatoes, simmered down with garlic, cumin, and paprika until silky and deeply flavorful. Served warm or at room temperature as a dip with crusty bread, it's a staple starter on nearly every Moroccan table.
Traditional Moroccan Salad (Shlada)
A refreshing, vibrant, and simple Moroccan salad made with finely diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, tossed in a light dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and ground cumin.