In both Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures, meals often start with mezze, a collection of small, flavorful dishes shared by everyone at the table. Mezze can be as simple as olives, nuts, and cheeses, or more elaborate like baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, or falafel.
Social Element: Mezze is about slowing down and savoring the food in a communal setting. It's common for diners to talk, share, and laugh over plates of mezze.
Popular Dishes: Classic mezze dishes include hummus, labneh (a tangy yogurt cheese), and muhammara (a walnut and red pepper dip).
Mezze embodies the Mediterranean way of life—enjoying fresh, wholesome ingredients with loved ones.