Stay energized this Ramadan with nutritious Arabic food! Try protein-packed suhoor & wholesome iftar recipes for a balanced fasting routine.

March 19, 2025

Best Healthy Middle Eastern Dishes for Ramadan Meal Plans
Middle Eastern Meal Plans

Best Healthy Middle Eastern Dishes for Ramadan Meal Plans

Ramadan is a time of reflection, fasting, and community. But when it comes to suhoor and iftar, making healthy choices can be challenging. The long hours without food and water mean that the meals you eat before dawn and after sunset play a crucial role in sustaining your energy levels and keeping you feeling your best.
The good news? Middle Eastern cuisine is naturally rich in wholesome ingredients like lean proteins, whole grains, and fresh vegetables. With the right approach, you can enjoy traditional flavors while making smart, nourishing choices.
Here’s a curated list of the best healthy Middle Eastern dishes to include in your Ramadan meal plan.
 

 

1. Shakshuka (Poached Eggs in Tomato Sauce)

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: Packed with protein and healthy fats, shakshuka provides long-lasting energy and keeps you full during fasting hours. The tomatoes add a dose of antioxidants and hydration.
Perfect For: A protein-rich suhoor that keeps you full longer.
Ingredients:
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Spices: cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
  2. Add tomatoes and spices, simmer for 10 minutes.
  3. Create small wells in the sauce and crack eggs into them.
  4. Cover and cook until eggs are set.
Pro Tip: Serve with whole-grain pita for a fiber boost.

 

2. Lentil Soup (Shorbat Adas)

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: Lentils are rich in protein and fiber, making them an excellent food for maintaining steady blood sugar levels throughout the fasting period. It’s also hydrating and easy to digest after a long day of fasting.
Perfect For: A light and nourishing iftar starter.
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup red lentils
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Spices: cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots in a pot.
  2. Add lentils, broth, and spices, and bring to a boil.
  3. Simmer for 25 minutes, then blend for a smooth texture.
Pro Tip: Squeeze fresh lemon juice for added zest and vitamin C.

 

3. Grilled Chicken with Yogurt Marinade

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: This protein-rich dish replenishes muscle mass and provides a slow-releasing energy source, ensuring you stay full and energized. The yogurt aids digestion and tenderizes the chicken for better absorption of nutrients.
Perfect For: A high-protein iftar meal to replenish energy.
Ingredients:
  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp olive oil
  • Spices: cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, garlic, and spices for at least 2 hours.
  2. Grill until fully cooked.
Pro Tip: Pair with a side of grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.

 

4. Stuffed Grape Leaves (Warak Enab)

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: Rich in fiber, these stuffed grape leaves provide a balance of complex carbs and healthy fats, keeping you full for longer.
Perfect For: A light yet satisfying suhoor or iftar appetizer.
Ingredients:
  • 20 grape leaves
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • Spices: cumin, salt, pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Mix rice/quinoa with tomato, onion, and spices.
  2. Place a small amount on each grape leaf, roll tightly.
  3. Steam for 30 minutes.
Pro Tip: Serve with a side of low-fat yogurt for added protein.

 

5. Baked Falafel

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, helping maintain steady energy levels throughout the fasting period.
Perfect For: A nutritious and filling suhoor or iftar dish.
Ingredients:
  • 1 can chickpeas
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Spices: cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
  2. Shape into small patties and bake at 200°C for 20 minutes.
Pro Tip: Serve in a whole-wheat pita with fresh veggies.

 

6. Fattoush Salad

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: This refreshing salad is packed with hydrating vegetables and fiber, making it a great light option after a long fast.
Perfect For: A refreshing and crunchy iftar side dish.
Ingredients:
  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1 romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, sliced
  • 1 whole-wheat pita, toasted and broken into pieces
  • Dressing: olive oil, lemon juice, sumac, salt, and pepper
How to Make It:
  1. Combine all salad ingredients in a bowl.
  2. Drizzle with dressing and toss well.
Pro Tip: Add grilled chicken for extra protein.

 

7. Date & Nut Energy Balls

Why It’s Great for Ramadan: Dates provide natural sugars for quick energy, while nuts add healthy fats and protein for sustained energy release.
Perfect For: A natural and energizing iftar dessert or suhoor snack.
Ingredients:
  • 1 cup dates
  • ½ cup almonds or walnuts
  • 1 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make It:
  1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor.
  2. Roll into bite-sized balls.
Pro Tip: Store in the fridge for a quick grab-and-go snack.

 

Additional Tips for a Healthy Ramadan

 

1. Hydration Strategies

Drink plenty of water between iftar and suhoor to prevent dehydration. Infuse water with lemon, mint, or cucumber for added flavor and hydration benefits.

2. Avoid Processed & Fried Foods

While tempting, fried and heavily processed foods can lead to sluggishness and digestive discomfort. Opt for baked, grilled, or steamed alternatives instead.

3. Smart Suhoor Choices

Eating a suhoor meal rich in fiber, protein, and healthy fats helps sustain energy levels and prevents hunger pangs during fasting hours. Opt for oats, Greek yogurt, and whole grains.

4. Balance Your Iftar Plate

Break your fast with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal containing lean proteins, complex carbs, and vegetables to replenish nutrients efficiently.

 

FitLab: Your Partner in a Healthy Ramadan

 
At FitLab, we believe that healthy eating should be effortless and delicious. Our expert nutritionists and meal planners are here to help you make the most of Ramadan with customized meal plans designed for optimal energy, hydration, and wellness.
Looking for nutritious meal options that fit your Ramadan schedule? FitLab offers a variety of meal plans tailored to support your fasting routine while keeping you energized and healthy. Whether you're focused on maintaining muscle mass, improving digestion, or simply making smarter food choices, we have you covered.
Ready to transform your Ramadan nutrition?
Explore FitLab’s meal plans and wellness solutions today! Visit [FitLab’s website] or contact us for personalized guidance on achieving your health goals this Ramadan.
 
 

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2024-2025 Fitlab Catering Services LLC. All rights reserved.