Vegetarian Middle Eastern Menu for a BBQ Cookout
10–60 guests · afternoon · casual
Overview
A vegetarian middle eastern bbq cookout is a specific brief with specific answers. Vegetarian entertaining means building centrepiece dishes that feel as substantial as a meat main — not assembling a plate of sides and calling it dinner. Combined with a middle eastern approach, you get a menu that: naturally halal; generous portions.
What to Avoid
- meat
- fish
- seafood
Menu Ideas
The following dishes from middle eastern cooking work well for this combination:
- kebabs — Note: avoid meat and fish in preparation.
- mujaddara — Naturally compatible with vegetarian requirements.
- ma'amoul — Naturally compatible with vegetarian requirements.
Drinks Pairing
Beer, lemonade, iced tea. For vegetarian guests, verify all drinks are compatible — particularly wines (some contain dairy-based fining agents) and cocktails with cream liqueurs.
Quantity Guide
For a bbq cookout of 10–60 people: plan $18–$50 per head for food, which should comfortably cover a two-course meal or a substantial buffet. For exact piece counts, use the Portion Calculator.
Make-Ahead Notes
Middle Eastern food for a bbq cookout responds well to advance preparation. I would schedule two cooking sessions: one 2–3 days before the event for any braises, sauces, or baked elements; one the morning of the event for final seasoning, garnishes, and anything that needs a fresh component.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best vegetarian middle eastern dishes for a bbq cookout?For a vegetarian middle eastern bbq cookout, focus on dishes that are naturally vegetarian rather than adapted ones. Naturally halal. Many dishes vegan and GF. Labneh is the one dairy linchpin.
- How much food do I need for a bbq cookout of 60 people?For a bbq cookout of this size, plan for 23–50 dollars per head for food. The specific quantities depend on whether you are serving a buffet or seated format. Use our portion calculator for exact numbers.
- Can I make middle eastern food ahead for a bbq cookout?Yes — most middle eastern dishes are excellent made ahead. Prepare sauces and braises 1–2 days before; finish and reheat on the day.