Simple and sophisticated are two words that come to mind when one thinks of Lebanese cooking. Lebanon is where Arabian cuisine meets the Mediterranean providing the framework for an exotic cuisine that's loved the world over. This combination comprises of a bed of bean and spinach rice topped with a spicy vegetable curry along with falafel. Serve it with chilled yoghurt spiked with roasted cumin seeds to tone down this fiery sizzler.

Chole, a traditional Punjabi dish, is usually made using a lot of fat. But this easy to make recipe is lower in calories and is just as tasty. The oil does not contribute much flavour, it is the spices that create this dish. Instead of bhature (deep fried puris) serve it with Nutritious Garlic Naans, which are healthy, nourishing and just as tasty. It is important to soak the chick peas overnight to improve its digestibility and nutritive value by enhancing the protein, calcium and vitamin C levels.

Vitamin c, proteins and fibre abound in this fragrant rendition of the popular chinese favourite! this scrumptious appetiser can also be modified into a main course, served along with rice or noodles.

The sweetness of the baby corn is complemented well by the spicy marinade in this luscious and easy-to-make starter. This satay is a great match even for dieters, since it is rich in fibre and calcium but low in calories.

Grilled eggplant dip is a delicious and naturally creamy dip which has a middle eastern flavour. It is quick to make and can be served with pita chips or crackers as a delicious appetizer.

These melt in the mouth dainty cheese filled spinach parcels are cooked in garlic flavoured butter. Use whole spinach leaves that do not have any cracks because the cheese can ooze out of the leaves during cooking.

The Labneh is a delicious dip made of thick curd and fresh cream that is mixed in with pounded sesame, garlic, salt and olive oil. Vegetables are sliced well, mixed in with cornflour and salt and deep-fried and served fresh with the Labneh, for a great starter!

Hara bhara kebab, a green delight loaded with nutrients from paneer, spinach, chana dal and green peas. Pack this all time favourite snack with green chutney or tomato ketchup and await an empty tiffin back home.