Tunisian Mechouia: Grilled Garden Delights

Mechouia is a traditional Tunisian grilled salad that’s both vibrant and flavorful, featuring a wonderful mix of roasted tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic, all seasoned with aromatic spices. Whether you're enjoying it as a side dish or as a light main course, this dish is a refreshing, smoky delight that will bring the flavors of Tunisia to your table.

Ingredients:

• Tomatoes (5 medium-sized, ripe)

• Peppers (4, bell peppers or hot peppers, depending on your preference)

• Onions (2, peeled)

• Cloves of Garlic (4, unpeeled)

• Ground Coriander (2 teaspoons)

• Ground Caraway (2 teaspoons)

• Lemon (½, for the juice)

• Olive Oil (as needed)

• Salt (to taste)

  
  

Instructions:

Step 1: Grill the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to a medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Place the tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic cloves on a baking sheet or directly on the grill. Allow them to roast and char on all sides, which should take about 15-20 minutes. The goal is to get a smoky flavor from the grilling process.

Step 2: Peel and Seed the Vegetables

Once your vegetables are grilled and charred, remove them from the heat. Let them cool for a few minutes, then peel the skin off the tomatoes and peppers. Discard the seeds of the tomatoes and peppers. Peel the skins off the onions and garlic cloves. At this point, you should have a pile of soft, smoky, roasted vegetables.

Step 3: Blend the Vegetables

Place all the peeled vegetables in a blender or food processor. Pulse them to create a chunky, yet smooth texture. If you prefer a chunkier salad, you can also mash them with a fork or potato masher, but traditionally this salad is more blended for a smoother consistency.

Step 4: Season and Mix

Once the vegetables are blended, add ground coriander, ground caraway, and salt to taste. These spices give the Mechouia its signature Tunisian flavor. Stir everything together until the spices are evenly incorporated.

Step 5: Add Lemon and Olive Oil

Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon and drizzle with olive oil. The lemon adds a refreshing tang, while the olive oil brings richness to the dish. Mix well, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your fresh grilled Mechouia salad in a bowl or on a plate. This dish is perfect as a side to grilled meats or fish, but it’s also great on its own with some warm, crusty bread. For extra flavor, drizzle with a little more olive oil before serving.

A Dish with a Story

Mechouia has been a beloved part of Tunisian cuisine for generations. Traditionally served during the summer months when vegetables are at their peak, this grilled salad is a simple yet delicious dish made with roasted tomatoes, peppers, onions, and garlic. Seasoned with ground coriander and caraway, it embodies the bold and aromatic flavors of Tunisia. It’s often served as an appetizer or side dish alongside couscous, grilled meats, or as a light vegetarian meal.

At Mona’s Farm, we believe in using the best, freshest ingredients to bring authentic Tunisian recipes to your table. Our organic olive oil, fresh herbs, and locally grown vegetables help make this Mechouia as vibrant and flavorful as it is in Tunisia.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mechouia is the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, with a refreshing burst of lemon to finish. It’s a light and healthy dish that’s packed with nutrients and full of character. The combination of roasted vegetables, tangy lemon, and aromatic spices is truly irresistible. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with grilled meats or seafood for a complete meal. Bring the essence of Tunisia into your kitchen with this easy, fresh, and flavorful Mechouia salad, made with the finest ingredients from Mona’s Farm!