Beyond The Bun: Lunchtime Ideas That Aren’t Sandwiches

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Imagine a symphony of tastes, a harmonious blend of cultures, all encapsulated in a single dish. Today, we embark on a culinary journey, exploring the depths of global cuisine to create a masterpiece that transcends borders.

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, pitted and halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

  • Non Sandwich Lunch Ideas for Kids — What Lisa Cooks
    Non Sandwich Lunch Ideas for Kids — What Lisa Cooks

    Image Source: squarespace-cdn.com

    Preparation Process:

    1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
    2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with cherry tomatoes and kalamata olives.
    3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through.
    4. Assemble the Dish: Serve the grilled skewers over a bed of fresh greens. Drizzle with a lemon-herb vinaigrette and top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.

    Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)

    Serving Ideas:

    Mediterranean Feast: Pair the skewers with a side of tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a Greek salad.

  • Summer Picnic: Pack the skewers in a cooler and enjoy them outdoors with a side of quinoa salad and a bottle of chilled rosé.
  • Weeknight dinner: Serve the skewers over rice or couscous with a side of roasted vegetables.

  • Cultural Influences:

    This dish is a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. The Greek yogurt marinade is a nod to classic Greek cuisine, while the use of spices like oregano and thyme is inspired by the Mediterranean region. The addition of kalamata olives and feta cheese brings a distinctly Greek touch, while the red pepper flakes add a hint of Middle Eastern spice.

    By combining these diverse elements, we’ve created a dish that is both familiar and exotic, a true celebration of global cuisine. This recipe is a testament to the power of food to connect cultures and bring people together.