Daydream Believin'

Today was a beautiful day. The sun was out, there wasn't a cloud in the bright blue sky, and it was the perfect temperature to go frolick in the park. It was also the kind of weather that invokes daydreams of the pristine turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. In our heads, we were lounging on the beach, nibbling on toasted chickpeas and juicy olives.

But when we opened our eyes, here we were at home, hanging out with our one-eyed cat. But hey, just because we're not actually on the Mediterranean, doesn't mean we can't eat like we are!


Daydream Believin' Mediterranean Salad
Served with Falafel, Flatbread, and home-made Tahini dressing!

For the Fabulous Falafels:
1 16 oz. can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
3 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp. fresh oregano (From the herbs on my windowsill pictured above!)
1 tsp. ground coriander
1 tsp. ground cumin
2 Tbsp. flour
2 Tbsp. breadcrumbs
Salt and Pepper, to taste

1. Toss all ingredients into food processor.
2. Process until a thick paste forms.
3. Form into 12 small balls, flatten slightly on oiled baking sheet.
4. Bake at 400 degrees for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.







For the Tasty Tahini Dressing:
4 Tbsp. Tahini
1 Tbsp. Tamari or Soy Sauce
1 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
1 small clove garlic, pasted
1 tsp. fresh thyme, finely chopped (Again, from the windowsill!)
4 Tbsp. Extra Virgin Olive Oil


1. Whisk all ingredients, except Olive Oil, together until well blended.
2. Stream in Olive Oil while continuing to whisk.
3. Thin with water, if necessary.


Now it's time to assemble your Salad!! May we suggest:

Mixed Greens

Parsley

Cucumber

Tomatoes

Raddishes

Kalamata Olives

Ground Black Pepper

Serve your salad with Flat Bread and Iced Tea, infused with clove and garnished with a lemon wedge for the perfect Mediterranean get-away!

Peace, Love, and Chickpeas,

Pam and KT