17 Moreish Moroccan Side Dishes To Tantalize Your Tastebuds

Moroccan cuisine is an enchanting fusion of African, Arab, Berber, and even Mediterranean cooking.

With each bite, you’re transported to bustling souks and serene desert landscapes, all infused with a melody of spices.

Moroccan Side Dishes

While tagines and couscous might be the most popular Moroccan dishes, there are many side dishes that are equally divine.

From spicy to sweet, crispy to creamy, Moroccan accompaniments bring a vibrant touch to every dish.

In this article, we delve into 17 simple yet utterly delicious Moroccan side dishes that promise to be the unsung heroes of your next culinary adventure.

1. Moroccan Carrot Salad

This refreshing salad puts carrots front and center, showcasing their earthy sweetness.

Paired with a zesty dressing and aromatic spices, it’s truly a vibrant treat.

Flavor Profile: Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy with hints of cumin and garlic.

Our Top Tip: Use fresh and young carrots for the best flavor and a crisp texture.

Pairing: This salad complements grilled meats, particularly lamb, or can be part of a meze spread.

2. Zaalouk (Eggplant And Tomato Salad)

Zaalouk is a rich medley of roasted eggplant and ripe tomatoes, creating a dip that’s both smoky and savory.

The infusion of garlic and spices takes it to another level.

Flavor Profile: Smoky, tangy, with a rich depth from spices like cumin and paprika.

Our Top Tip: Roasting the eggplant on an open flame imparts an authentic smoky flavor.

Pairing: This dish is perfect with warm flatbread or as a companion to kebabs.

3. Moroccan Lentil Salad

Bringing together the simple delight of lentils with bright herbs, this salad is both hearty and refreshing.

The citrusy dressing adds a tangy twist, making it a standout side.

Flavor Profile: Nutty, herby, and zesty with a hint of citrus.

Our Top Tip: Use green or Puy lentils for their firm texture and peppery flavor.

Pairing: This lentil salad is a delightful addition to a Moroccan tagine or roasted chicken.

4. Moroccan Chickpea Salad

Chickpeas, in all their nutty glory, take center stage in this wholesome salad.

Packed with fresh veggies and a punchy dressing, it’s a burst of flavors and textures.

Flavor Profile: Nutty, tangy, and crunchy with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Our Top Tip: For a creamier texture, slightly mash some of the chickpeas.

Pairing: It’s a hearty addition to a Moroccan BBQ or alongside roasted vegetables.

5. Berber Bread (Agugou)

Hailing from the Berber regions of Morocco, this flatbread encapsulates simplicity and taste.

Typically baked in a clay oven, it has a distinct smoky undertone.

Flavor Profile: Slightly smoky, dense, and rustic.

Our Top Tip: If you don’t have a clay oven, use a cast-iron skillet for a similar flavor.

Pairing: Ideal for dipping into rich Moroccan stews or tagines.

6. Moroccan Cauliflower With Harissa

Humble cauliflower gets a zesty makeover when roasted with harissa, a spicy Moroccan chili paste.

The result is a fiery, flavorful side dish that’s sure to turn heads and tingle tongues.

Flavor Profile: Spicy, smoky, with the inherent sweetness of roasted cauliflower.

Our Top Tip: Adjust the harissa quantity based on your spice tolerance.

Pairing: It pairs wonderfully with lamb dishes or as a spicy contrast to milder entrees.

7. Moroccan Rice Pilaf

This fragrant rice dish is elevated with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and nuts.

It’s a celebration of flavors and makes the perfect accompaniment to any main dish.

Flavor Profile: Nutty, fragrant, with sweet hints from the dried fruits.

Our Top Tip: Toast the rice lightly before boiling to enhance its nutty flavor.

Pairing: It’s a versatile side that pairs especially well with grilled meats or rich, saucy dishes.

8. Moroccan Spiced Green Beans

Fresh green beans are sautéed with a melody of Moroccan spices in this simple yet flavorful dish.

With just a hint of tomato, they become an irresistible side.

Flavor Profile: Spicy, tangy, with a crisp-tender bean texture.

Our Top Tip: Blanch the beans beforehand to preserve their vibrant green color.

Pairing: A light and spicy complement to roasted poultry or fish.

9. Moroccan Stuffed Peppers

These vibrant bell peppers, stuffed with a spiced meat and rice mixture, are a feast for the eyes and the palate.

Every bite is a fusion of flavors and textures.

Flavor Profile: Savory, spicy, with the sweet notes of bell pepper.

Our Top Tip: Use multi-colored peppers for an even more visually appealing dish.

Pairing: We love it served alongside a fresh salad or cooling yogurt dip to balance the flavors.

10. Moroccan Cucumber Salad

This refreshing salad combines crunchy cucumbers with a tangy dressing and aromatic herbs.

It’s the perfect cooling side dish for any Moroccan feast – especially if you’re looking to offset the spice.

Flavor Profile: Crisp, tangy, and fresh with a hint of mint.

Our Top Tip: Use seedless cucumbers for a less watery salad.

Pairing: This salad is Ideal with spicy dishes, kebabs, or even seafood

11. Sweet Moroccan Couscous With Dried Fruits

Taking a sweet turn, this couscous dish melds the nuttiness of the grain with the sweetness of dried fruits. We also like nuts added to this dish for a little bite.

Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon creates warmth and depth.

Flavor Profile: Sweet, nutty, and aromatic with hints of cinnamon and dried fruits.

Our Top Tip: Use a light hand with the cinnamon to avoid overpowering the dish.

Pairing: Serve as a side to roasted meats or even as a dessert with a dollop of cream.

12. Moroccan Marinated Olives

Olives marinated in a blend of Moroccan spices and citrus are an addicting treat.

Perfect for nibbling, they’re a zesty, flavorful start to any meal.

Flavor Profile: Briny, citrusy, with a punch of Moroccan spices.

Our Top Tip: Marinate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully meld.

Pairing: These olives are excellent as a snack, part of a meze, or to accent a Moroccan salad.

13. Moroccan Beet Salad

Beets, with their earthy charm, shine in this simple Moroccan salad.

Tossed in a light dressing and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s both nutritious and tasty.

Flavor Profile: Earthy, sweet, with a tangy undertone.

Our Top Tip: Roast the beets instead of boiling them to enhance their natural sweetness.

Pairing: This salad is a vibrant addition to grilled lamb dishes or tangy cheeses.

14. Moroccan Pickled Vegetables

This mixture of crisp, pickled vegetables offers a tangy contrast to many Moroccan dishes.

Preserved in a spiced brine, they’re a delightful palate cleanser.

Flavor Profile: Tangy, spicy, and crisp with hints of cumin and coriander.

Our Top Tip: Let the vegetables pickle for at least a week for best results.

Pairing: We think this is perfect with rich dishes, sandwiches, or as part of a Moroccan spread.

15. Feggous (Cucumber And Tomato Moroccan Salad)

Fekkous is a refreshing Moroccan salad that’s made primarily from finely chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.

Often enjoyed during the warm months, it brings a crisp, revitalizing touch to heavier dishes or spicy flavors.

Flavor Profile: Fresh and crisp with a light tang from the vinaigrette dressing.

Our Top Tip: Use fresh, ripe tomatoes and crunchy cucumbers for the best texture and flavor.

Pairing: Feggous is perfect with grilled meats or a tagine dish, adding a fresh contrast.

16. Loubia (Moroccan White Beans)

Loubia is a hearty white bean stew often relished by Moroccans for its simplicity and deep flavors.

Prepared with tomatoes, herbs, and spices, it can be served warm or at room temperature.

Flavor Profile: Savory with subtle hints of spices, complemented by the earthy taste of beans.

Our Top Tip: Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and achieve a creamy texture.

Pairing: Loubia pairs beautifully with bread, allowing you to soak up its flavorful sauce. Alternatively, serve it as a side to roasted meats – it’s particularly good with lamb.

17. Moroccan Roasted Potatoes

Moroccan Roasted Potatoes bring a North African twist to the traditional roasted spud, infusing them with rich spices and herbs.

They’re the perfect accompaniment to elevate any main dish with a touch of Moroccan flair.

Flavor Profile: Crispy on the outside, soft within, and beautifully aromatic with spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic.

Our Top Tip: For a burst of freshness, finish the potatoes with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Pairing: These potatoes pair exceptionally well with grilled meats, tagines, or a fresh salad for contrast.

In Summary

Morocco’s rich culinary heritage shines not just in its main dishes but also in the intricate flavors and textures of its side offerings.

Each side dish tells a story of ancient traditions, diverse influences, and a love for fresh, aromatic ingredients.

Whether you’re planning a Moroccan feast or just looking for an exotic twist to spruce up your weeknight dinner, these side dishes are your ticket to a flavorful journey.

Embrace the warmth of Moroccan hospitality and let these sides whisk you away on a delightful culinary escapade.

Picking your favorite from the above list may be a bit of a challenge, though!

17 Moreish Moroccan Side Dishes To Tantalize Your Tastebuds

Recipe by Barbara HuntCourse: Other Recipes, Recipes
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Directions

  • Choose your favorite Moroccan side dish recipe
  • Collect your ingredients
  • Prepare your dish
  • Enjoy!
Barbara Hunt

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