It's too hot to cook. The heat has been so oppressive, it's hard to think strait. So, if you can lift your enervated hands to open a few cans, here is a very tasty recipe adapted from a bomb shelter survival guide:
1 can chick peas
1 can quartered artichokes
1 small can sliced black olives
1or 2 spring onions
A lemon
Some olive oil
About two tablespoons green za'atar
Green and red za'atar are Middle Eastern spice blends that can be found at Hilal grocers or on the internet. Many spice brands have Mediterranean blends if you can't get green za'atar. That said, open the cans and drain them. I like to rinse off the chick peas. Dump them in a salad bowl and add the thinly sliced spring onions, squeeze the lemon over it, add the olive oil (to taste) and mix. Now add the green za'atar. I like mine to look properly peppered with it, but again, it's a matter of individual taste. My bag of green za'atar has these ingredients;
Roasted wheat, roasted thyme, ground sumac, sesame seeds and salt. It's not spicy hot.
After it's all mixed, stick it in the fridge for a few hours to marinate. It's great for picnics, it's vegan and has lots of protein, vitamins, calcium and fiber. A fancy glass bowl will make it stunning and unique at a summer potluck. Go ahead and try it, you'll like it.