Always have garlic, onions and olive oil around. They are useful in every Middle Eastern dish. Refrigerate goat cheese and feta as well as other dairy products such as yogurt. You'll want them for dips, salads and sauces. Stock your spice rack with turmeric, cumin, paprika, chili powder, mustard seeds, ground ginger, curry powder, cinnamon and salt and pepper.
Appropriate spices are essential for creating the perfect balance of flavors.
It's the secret ingredient in hummus and baba ganoush. Store olives of all sorts and raisins. They are perfect for snacking, garnishes and extra flavor. Have lots of couscous in your pantry. It's a staple grain in many dishes.