Ramadan is the holy month for Muslims around the world, where they fast from dawn to dusk. During this month, Muslims have two main meals: Suhoor (before dawn) and Iftar (after sunset). Iftar is an essential meal, where Muslims break their fast and gather with family and friends to enjoy a delicious meal. If you’re looking for some quick and easy recipes for great Iftars, then look no further. In this article, we will share ten Ramadan recipes that are simple, quick, and delicious.
If you want to know more about Ramadan, read our guide on what it is and why it’s celebrated.
1. Chicken shawarma
Chicken Shawarma is a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is easy to make and perfect for Iftar. Cut chicken into thin strips and marinate in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Cook the chicken on a grill or in a pan until fully cooked, and serve with pita bread, hummus, and a salad.
2. Vegetable fried rice
Fried rice is always a crowd-pleaser and a great option for Iftar. Cook rice and set it aside. In a pan, add vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions, and sauté them in oil. Add in cooked rice, scrambled eggs, and soy sauce. Mix everything together and serve hot.
3. Samosas
They might seem tricky, but samosas are simple to make. They’re also a very popular side during Ramadan. Stuff pastry sheets with a mixture of mashed potatoes, peas, and spices. Fold the sheets into a triangle shape and deep fry until golden brown. Serve hot with a chutney of your choice.
4. Lentil soup
Healthy and nutritious, lentil soup is filling, which is perfect for Iftar. In a pot, add lentils, onions, garlic, and spices, and cook until the lentils are soft. Use a blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth, and serve hot with a side of bread.
5. Chicken kebabs
It’s the Ramadan recipe we often crave while fasting! Chicken kebabs are easy to make and perfect for grilling. Cut chicken into small cubes and marinate in a mixture of yogurt, spices, and lemon juice. Skewer the chicken and grill until fully cooked. Serve with a side of rice or salad. It might be hard to smell the delicious scent while fasting, but you’ll get to enjoy it later.
6. Hummus
This isn’t a full meal, but it’s perfect for breaking fast and filling your belly before prayer. Hummus is a popular dip and snack during Ramadan. In a blender, add chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice, and tahini, and blend until smooth. Serve with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
7. Spinach and feta rolls
There’s never a time these aren’t good, Spinach and feta rolls are easy to make. They’re one of the easiest Ramadan recipes and great if you have people round for Iftar. Cook spinach and mix it with feta cheese, salt, and pepper. Place the mixture in puff pastry sheets and bake in the oven until golden brown. Serve hot.
8. Fruit salad
It’s what we break fast with, so why not spruce it up. A fruit salad is a refreshing and healthy option for Iftar, and can provide lots of nutrients in one. Cut up your favourite fruits like watermelon, pineapple, and mango, and mix them together in a bowl. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for flavour.
9. Cheese fatayer
Another pastry favourite on our list of Ramadan recipes! Cheese fatayer is a traditional Middle Eastern pastry that is easy to make. Stuff pastry sheets with a mixture of cheese, za’atar, and herbs. Fold the sheets into a triangle shape and bake until golden brown. Serve hot.
10. Chicken and vegetable curry
For a flavourful and healthy Ramadan recipe that’s quick and easy to prepare, consider making a delicious curry dish. Simply add your choice of meat or vegetables, along with some fragrant curry powder and any other desired spices, to a pot and cook until fully done. This tasty dish can be served alongside a side of fluffy rice to complete your meal.
11. Meatball soup
Looking for a warm and filling soup that’s perfect for Iftar? Try making a delicious meatball soup! Simply combine meatballs, onions, garlic, vegetables, and your favourite spices in a pot and cook until everything is fully softened and cooked through. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
12. Stuffed grape leaves
Stuffed grape leaves are a traditional Middle Eastern dish that is easy to make. Mix rice, ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices, and roll the mixture into grape leaves. Place the rolls in a pot and cook until fully cooked. Serve hot with a side of yogurt.
13. Dates and cheese plate
A great way to eat dates is to pair them with cheese. It might sound strange at first, but cheese and grapes are often put together. Dates are a bit like raisins, which are dried grapes – do you see where we’re going here? Dates and cheese are a delicious and easy-to-prepare snack that is perfect for Iftar. Arrange dates and different types of cheese on a plate and serve with crackers or bread.
14. Chicken fajitas
Looking for a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for Iftar? Try making some delicious chicken fajitas! Begin by cutting chicken into thin strips and cooking it in a pan with your favourite vegetables and fajita seasoning. Once cooked, serve hot with some tortillas, sour cream, and salsa for added flavour and texture. This tasty and satisfying dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Easily one of the best Ramadan recipes to whip up time and time again.
15. Cheese and spinach borek
Cheese and spinach borek is a Turkish dish that’s one of the most simple Ramadan recipes. Mix spinach, feta cheese, and herbs, and stuff them into phyllo pastry sheets. Bake in the oven until golden brown and serve hot.
16. Lentil salad
For a tasty and nutritious salad that’s both flavourful and easy to prepare, consider making a lentil salad. Begin by cooking some lentils, then mix them with your choice of chopped vegetables, herbs, and a dressing of your liking. This salad can be customised to your liking, making it a great option for Iftar or any other meal. Enjoy the satisfying flavours and nutritional benefits of this simple yet delicious dish!
17. Chicken and rice casserole
This one is a comforting and hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy your hunger, try making a delicious chicken and rice casserole. Simply mix together some chicken, rice, vegetables, and spices in a casserole dish, then bake in the oven until fully cooked. This easy-to-make casserole is a great option for Iftar, as it provides a filling meal that the whole family can enjoy. Give this tasty Ramadan recipe a try and savour the warmth and comfort of a delicious homemade meal.
18. Sweet potato and lentil curry
A great option for veggie Muslims! Why not prepare yourself a sweet potato and lentil curry that won’t take you too long! It’s one of the most filling Ramadan recipes to try. Cook sweet potatoes, lentils, onions, and spices in a pot until everything is soft and fully cooked. Serve with a side of rice or naan bread.
19. Creamy tomato soup
This one is a classic, any day, any time! Creamy tomato soup is a comforting and delicious soup that requires minimal effort. Cook tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices in a pot and blend until smooth. Add cream for a creamy texture and serve hot with a side of bread.
20. Chickpea salad
Protein, greens and deliciousness. For this Ramadan recipe, you just have to mix ingredients together in a bowl – simple! Mix cooked chickpeas with chopped vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Add lemon juice, olive oil, and spices to taste.
These 20 quick and easy Ramadan recipes are perfect for Iftar gatherings with family and friends. From spicy curries to nourishing salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With these recipes, you can prepare delicious meals and snacks in no time. If you want more ideas on easy meals on a budget, check out our recommendations.
You can also keep track of Iftar times here.
Last Updated on September 4, 2024
Published on March 30, 2023
