The Arak is one of the prides of Iraqi cuisine, precisely because it is so common and not festive. Its renegade green hue is given by an abundance of chopped parsley, so don't try to skimp, that's where all the magic is.
In today's Israel it is fun to serve it for an elaborate, but light dinner, along with good tahini and chopped vegetables. But it's best in an invested sandwich for work, a long school day, a picnic and the possibilities are endless.