Our 60+ BEST Mediterranean Recipes (2024)

If you’ve fallen in love with the idea of Mediterranean recipes for dinner, we’ve got ideas to make some of the world’s best Mediterranean recipes easy for you to try.

The Mediterranean diet has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it all started when researchers started noticing that people who live in the area of the Mediterranean Sea seem to live longer. When they examined the diets of elderly people in the area, they discovered some excellent eating habits.

Whether you’re following the Mediterranean diet, just trying to eat healthy food such as Mediterranean cuisine, or want to try various Mediterranean dishes for some variety in your daily meals, there is a Mediterranean recipe for you on this excellent list of Mediterranean meal ideas.

The Mediterranean region has been long admired for its vibrant landscape and cultural richness. One of the most compelling aspects of this region is the mouth-watering range of culinary delights that originate from a variety of countries situated along the Mediterranean coastline. Delving into Mediterranean recipes is anticipated to be a fascinating journey for those eager to discover new flavors and traditions, as well as those who appreciate healthier ways of eating.

These time-honored recipes embrace the essence of Mediterranean cuisine – simple techniques magnifying the flavors of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Staples such as olive oil, fresh herbs, legumes, whole grains, and an assortment of fruits and vegetables dominate these dishes. At the same time, the judicious use of poultry, fish, and dairy ensures a well-rounded diet, maintaining the delicate balance between indulgence and well-being.

Moreover, the social aspect of Mediterranean dining promotes a sense of community and togetherness. Meals are mostly shared among family and friends, making the dining experience an occasion to unwind and connect. By exploring these Mediterranean recipes, one can not only enjoy a diverse range of culinary delights but also adopt a lifestyle that promotes heart health, longevity, and a closer connection to loved ones.

The best Mediterranean food is full of wonderful healthy ingredients, such as salmon, chicken, feta cheese, and olives.

Best of all, Mediterranean dinner recipes can be quite affordable. Are you ready to explore all of the ideas that make easy Mediterranean recipes? Let’s go!

Source: unicornsinthekitchen.com

1. Easy Ratatouille Mediterranean Diet Recipe

One of our favorite parts about Mediterranean cuisine and following a Mediterranean diet is how many veggies you can enjoy.

Spices in this dish are oregano, thyme, black pepper, and parsley.

Source: scrummylane.com

2. Greek Chicken and Potatoes

This Greek chicken recipe calls for just six simple ingredients, and it’s an easy one pot meal.

Season with sea salt and black pepper if you want.

Source: gardeninthekitchen.com

3. Easy Shrimp Recipe

Sheet pan dinners are always welcome because they’re so incredibly easy to make.

For this easy shrimp recipe, you need jumbo shrimp, fresh asparagus, garlic, olive oil, oregano, fresh lemon juice, feta cheese, and black olives.

Source: thedinnerbite.com

4. Simple Tuna Pasta

Canned tuna is one of the most affordable meats you can eat, so this canned tuna pasta recipe is easy on the family’s grocery budget.

For this recipe, you need red pepper flakes, onion, black pepper, cream cheese, and olive oil.

Source: olivetomato.com

5. Black Eyed Peas Greek Stew

This stew recipe gives you something unique to eat on New Year’s Day.

For this Mediterranean dish, you need carrots, chopped dill, tomato sauce, and onion.

Source: downshiftology.com

6. Sweet Potato Toast Mediterranean Diet Recipe

When you find yourself craving a quick piece of toast but you’re trying to ease off of carbs and need healthy recipes, why not make this yummy sweet potato toast instead of bread?

All you have to do is slice a delicious sweet potato and bake it.

Source: asimplepalate.com

7. Loaded Chickpea Salad

Eastern Mediterranean cuisine is full of delicious fresh veggies, and you find a lot of Mediterranean recipes that are main dish salad dishes.

This recipe is full of protein-rich chickpeas, so it can serve as a main dish for lunch or dinner.

Source: kitchenkonfidence.com

8. Citrus Avocado Dip

Avocado makes such a creamy dip, but there is so much more you can do with this green vegetable with good fat than just making guacamole.

This avocado dip with citrus flavor is made with green onion, cilantro, fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, fresh orange juice, shallot, a dab of honey for sweetness, sea salt, and black pepper.

Source: loveandlemons.com

9. Tzatziki Mediterranean Diet Recipe

No list of Mediteranian food or Mediterranean recipes would be complete without a classic tzatziki recipe.

Classic tzatziki is made with grated cucumber, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs that include chopped mint and fresh dill.

Source: cottercrunch.com

10. Sheet Pan Veggies & Eggs

A recipe filled with Mediterranean flavor is great for any meal of the day and that includes breakfast or brunch.

You can add Brussels sprouts if you like.

Source: tasteofhome.com

11. Spanakopita Pinwheels Mediterranean Diet Recipe

If you love Mediterranean food recipes that include flaky phyllo dough and spinach, you’ve probably already enjoyed spanakopita at one point.

These bite-sized appetizers are made with phyllo dough (or puff pastry), spinach, feta cheese, eggs, oregano, garlic, onion, and extra virgin olive oil.

Source: christinascucina.com

12. Italian-Style Baked Fish

This Italian-style baked fish recipe calls for flaky fish such as cod or haddock. Other ingredients are Italian red wine vinegar and fresh cherry tomatoes.

Use fresh bread crumbs for the topping and you’ve got a nice crunch.

Source: cafedelites.com

13. Garlic Lemon Salmon

There’s nothing more impressive than a slab of salmon cooked on a pan with lemon spices and fresh herbs.

This salmon recipe calls for brown sugar, but it’s optional and the fish is just as delicious without it.

Source: toriavey.com

14. Mushroom Barley Soup

The vegan and vegetarian options in Mediterranean recipes are amazing.

Use pearl barley to make this soup, and other ingredients include any type of mushrooms (we love shiitake in this soup), celery, onions, carrots, bay leaves, and crushed garlic.

Source: foodiecrush.com

15. Mushroom and Asparagus Goat Cheese Frittata Mediterranean Diet Recipe

Fritatta is great for an elegant brunch veggie entree, and we love this one that’s loaded with foods popular in Mediterranean cuisine.

For this Mediterranean recipe, you need eggs, kosher salt (or sea salt), milk or water, sliced mushrooms, asparagus spears, chopped scallions (green onion), and goat cheese.

Source: todaysparent.com

16. Juicy Salmon Burgers

How does the idea of combining a beloved American food with Medeterranean recipes sound?

The good news is that you can still enjoy your favorite burger, but simply make it with salmon and tzatziki for an exotic twist.

Source: gourmetwithblakely.com

17. Baked Zucchini with Parmesan and Thyme

It’s always fun to find new zucchini recipes, and we fell in love with this veggie recipe for baked zucchini.

Red pepper flakes give this zucchini recipe a nice kick, and other ingredients include lemon zest and grated parmesan cheese.

Source: tamingofthespoon.com

18. Roasted Tomatoes with Feta and Thyme

The humble tomato is one of the most versatile vegetables in the world, and there are so many things you can do with tomatoes.

With this recipe, you’re going to roast your tomatoes in the oven with fresh thyme (dried thyme works, too) and creamy feta cheese.

Source: gimmesomeoven.com

19. Hummus Toast

If you love avocado toast, you’re going to adore hummus toast.

This recipe for hummus toast gives you eight different recipe ideas for a super healthy breakfast, brunch, lunch, or snack.

Ingredients can include a fried egg, sliced olive, roasted red pepper, feta cheese, lox, capers, smoked salmon, tomato slices, roasted corn, cilantro, red onion, avocado, and more.

Source: primaverakitchen.com

20. Sheet Pan Vegetables and Chicken

Another sheet pan dinner, these delicious chicken thighs roasted with green beans, potatoes, and sweet potatoes are so tender and tasty.

For seasoning, use Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

You can also make this Mediterranean dish with chicken breast.

Source: jessicagavin.com

21. Mediterranean Couscous Salad

A main dish salad is a great way to lighten up your meals, and this couscous salad with Mediterranean flavors is perfect.

This salad is loaded with deliciousness, including Roma tomato, cucumbers, garbanzo beans, feta cheese, chopped mint, and lemon zest.

Source: thecafesucrefarine.com

22. Black Lentil Soup

If you love legumes, beans, and lentils, we suggest you try this delicious black lentil soup.

This is a rich soup that’s made with sweet Italian sausage, dry white wine, roasted red pepper, and bay leaves.

Source: minimalistbaker.com

23. Easy Baba Ganoush

Baba ganoush is similar to hummus except that baba ganoush is made with eggplant instead of chickpeas.

Serve your baba ganoush with pita chips, fresh veggies, or crusty bread.

Source: cookingclassy.com

24. Greek Salad

One of the most beloved and well-known Mediterranean recipes is a simple Greek salad.

A colorful veggie Greek salad is full of delicious fresh veggies, including minced garlic, Roma tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, different colors of bell pepper, Kalamata olive slices (or black olive slices), feta cheese crumbles, and avocado.

Source: mediterraneandietmealplans.com

25. Breakfast Egg Muffins

Eggs are great for any meal of the day, and when you use a muffin tin to make egg muffins, you’ve got a quick and easy meal.

To make this Mediterranean recipe, you need bell pepper, eggs (or an egg white mixture), spinach, and feta cheese.

Source: zestfulkitchen.com

26. Sicilian-Style Fish Stew

Do you have some pine nuts and golden raisins in your pantry? If so, we’ve got a delicious fish stew recipe that will help you use these fun ingredients.

Other ingredients in this fish stew are capers, clam juice, dry white wine, and orange zest.

Source: cookieandkate.com

27. Simple Italian Minestrone

Classic Italian minestrone soup is always welcome, and this soup is great with a salad and bread to make a full meal.

This soup is loaded with veggies like diced tomatoes, onion, carrots, and celery. Tomato paste and bay leaves give this soup tons of flavor.

Source: thefirstmess.com

28. Chickpeas and Braised Eggplant

Eggplant is a complex veggie because it’s so versatile. You can fry eggplant, bake it, broil it, grill it, or cook it any way you like.

We love this recipe for braised eggplant with chickpeas. You need chili pepper, cumin, caraway, coriander, crushed tomatoes, lemon juice, and onion.

Source: thedefineddish.com

29. Salmon Fish Sticks

Who says fish sticks have to be boring? Salmon and other fish play a huge role in Mediterranean recipes, and we love these fish sticks.

Use egg and panko bread crumbs for the coating.

Source: inspiredtaste.net

30. Creamiest Hummus

Most of us buy hummus at the grocery store, but you can also make a delicious version of creamy hummus in your own kitchen.

For this hummus recipe, you need cooked chickpeas, fresh lemon juice, tahini, garlic (or garlic powder), extra virgin olive oil, cumin, sea salt, and sumac (or smoked paprika).

Source: anediblemosaic.com

31. Foul Mudammas

Foul mudammas is a classic Middle Eastern dish that hails from Egypt.

Ingredients in this traditional Egyptian recipe are canned chickpeas, fava beans, garlic, salt, cumin, fresh lemon juice, tomato, onion, olive oil, black pepper, and parsley.

Source: mygreekdish.com

32. Chicken Souvlaki

Chicken souvlaki is made with tender chicken breasts, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and garlic.

Traditionally, chicken souvlaki is served with cucumber slices and tzatziki sauce that’s made with Greek yogurt, extra virgin olive oil, and red wine vinegar.

Source: littlesunnykitchen.com

33. Easy Lebanese Vermicelli with Rice

A popular Middle Eastern dish is Lebanese rice made with vermicelli.

You need just three pantry staples for this classic Lebanese recipe: vermicelli pasta, rice, and olive oil.

You can also make this rice recipe in the Instant Pot.

Source: thelemonbowl.com

34. Mediterranean Tuna Salad Sandwiches

Move over, traditional tuna salad. We’ve got a special treat: Mediterranean tuna salad.

How is this tuna salad different?: It’s made with Greek yogurt, Kalamata olives, roasted red bell peppers, fresh lemon juice, basil, and red onion.

Source: whatsgabycooking.com

35. Chicken Shawarma Pitas

For a stuffed chicken wrap, you can use leftover chicken, but these tasty little wraps are even more delicious if you make the chicken from scratch.

For this delicious recipe, you need chicken thighs, red pepper flakes, cumin, olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, and garlic.

Source: evolvingtable.com

36. Italian Roasted Vegetables

When you want a low carb side dish of veggies to serve with your Mediterranean recipes, you can rely on these Italian roasted vegetables that you cook in your oven.

For this recipe, you need mushrooms, red onion, bell pepper, yellow squash, zucchini, Italian seasoning, and olive oil.

Source: fitlivingeats.com

37. Tahini Banana Shakes

Sometimes a quick smoothie in the morning is all we have time for, and this banana smoothie makes a great afternoon treat, too.

To make this banana shake, you need a frozen banana, old-fashioned oats, tahini, maca powder, and unsweetened almond milk.

Source: thestayathomechef.com

38. Grilled Swordfish

Mediterranean recipes are big on fish, and this swordfish recipe gives you an opportunity to try something completely new and unique.

Marinate your swordfish in a marinade that’s made with fresh lime juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, black pepper, sea salt, basil, and a dash of cayenne pepper.

Source: integrahealthwellness.com

39. Greek Baked Cod with Garlic and Lemon

Salmon isn’t the only cold-water fish you can enjoy on the Mediterranean diet.

Baked cod is another great fish to implement into your healthy eating plan.

This baked cod is seasoned with a delicious butter mixture that includes olive oil and fresh lemon juice.

Source: recipetineats.com

40. Moroccan Vegetable Tagine

We have a delicious Moroccan recipe for you. This vegetarian stew from Morocco is made with just veggies, so it can also be vegan, depending on what you serve with it.

For a vegetarian dish, serve this delicious savory stew with Greek yogurt.

Source: acouplecooks.com

41. Red Lentil Soup

With a bag of red lentils (Masoor Dal), you can have a delicious Mediterranean soup to serve for a high-protein light dinner.

This soup is loaded with veggies like carrots, onion, garlic, and celery. Top with Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Source: saltandlavender.com

42. White Bean Salad

Are you looking for delicious vegetarian Mediterranean recipes? This white bean salad is for you.

To make this delicious salad recipe, you need canned cannellini beans, chopped cucumber, red onion, bell pepper, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped Kalamata olives, olive oil, oregano, red wine vinegar, and crumbled feta cheese.

Source: cookieandkate.com

43. Shakshuka

In the Arabic language, shakshuka means “all mixed up” and we’re here for that mentality.

For traditional shakshuka, you need extra virgin olive oil, onion, bell pepper, sea salt, garlic, tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, red pepper flakes, crushed tomatoes, cilantro, black pepper, crumbled feta cheese, and eggs.

Use pita chips or crusty bread for dipping.

Source: onceuponachef.com

44. Greek Shrimp with Feta and Tomatoes

Feta cheese can be found in lots of Mediterranean recipes, and we love how creamy and delicious it is.

For this jumbo shrimp recipe, you need shallots, plenty of garlic cloves, canned tomatoes, cumin, red pepper flakes, dried oregano, fresh mint, and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes.

Source: gusscooks.com

45. One Pan Baked Vegetables and Halibut

Made with delicious tender halibut, this sheet pan fish dinner is made with veggies that include green beans and cherry tomatoes.

Seasoning for this colorful Mediterranean dish comes from garlic, thyme, and fresh lemon juice.

Source: 12tomatoes.com

46. Simple Mediterranean Pasta with Olive Oil

Who doesn’t love a good pasta dish?

This Mediterranean pasta made with olive oil is vegan and vegetarian, so it’s a great Mediterranean dish to serve to everyone.

Source: themodernproper.com

47. Salmon Soup

You can use fresh salmon to make a hearty stew that’s perfect for a cold day.

This salmon soup is made with celery, bacon, potatoes, garlic, chicken stock, frozen corn, and heavy cream.

Source: kalynskitchen.com

48. Roasted Cauliflower with Cumin and Lemon

Roasted cauliflower with curry is an excellent side dish for any Mediterranean meal.

For this cauliflower recipe, you need extra virgin olive oil, fresh lemon juice, cumin, curry powder, Spike Seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.

Source: punchfork.com

49. The Mediterranean Ultimate Breakfast Board

How about a smorgasbord of Mediterranian diet food?

This delicious breakfast meal idea is loaded with sliced cucumber, tzatziki, an olive selection, different types of cheese, grapes, and more.

Source: skinnytaste.com

50. Salmon Kabobs

Eating the Mediterranean way doesn’t require you to give up your favorite outdoor grilling.

With these delicious salmon kabobs, you can grill away. While you’ve got your grill nice and hot, go ahead and grill your veggies, too.

Source: laaloosh.com

51. Best Moroccan Fish

Moroccan fish is a popular Mediterranean dish that’s made with tilapia.

Veggies include garbanzo beans, garlic, and diced tomatoes.

The secret to the perfect Moroccan fish lies in the spices: coriander, smoked paprika, onion powder, cumin, and tomato paste.

Source: glueandglitter.com

52. Roasted Vegetable Barley

Mushroom lovers, this recipe is for you!

For this delicious roasted veggie dinner, you need eggplant, garlic, butternut squash, scallions (green onions), and shiitake mushrooms.

Source: sixhungryfeet.com

53. Falafel Sandwiches

For falafel, you need garlic, chickpeas, onion, broccoli florets, coriander, cumin, parsley, and black pepper.

This chicken mixture is perfect with a pita as a sandwich. Use black olives and sambal to make it perfect. Serve with fresh fruit for a real treat.

Source: mayihavethatrecipe.com

54. Tabouli Salad

Sometimes called Tabbouleh, tabouli is a classic recipe for Lebanese salad.

For this salad, you need tomatoes, green onions, fresh parsley, and bulgur wheat.

Source: showmetheyummy.com

55. Simple Green Juice

One way to get in lots of veggies is by juicing.

This simple green juice recipe is loaded with essential nutrients because it’s made with kale, fresh lemon juice, fresh ginger, cucumber slices, celery stalks, and Granny Smith apples.

Source: delightfulplate.com

56. Zucchini and Sauteed Shrimp

Sauteed shrimp was never so easy before.

This recipe makes the most of delicious garden zucchini and fresh jumbo shrimp. You can also use frozen shrimp to make this Mediterranean dish.

The seasoning in this recipe is simple: lemon juice, butter, garlic, salt, and chopped parsley.

Source: sipandfeast.com

57. Italian Baked Chicken

To make a classic Italian baked chicken, we recommend using a young fryer chicken, but you can use any type of chicken, including chicken breasts or chicken leg quarters.

The secret to the perfect Italian chicken is to dry the chicken very well after rinsing it off.

Source: wellplated.com

58. Moroccan Couscous Perfectly Cooked

It’s time to branch out and try some new types of grain, and whole-wheat couscous is a great way to start.

This recipe is made with vegetable broth, but you can also use chicken broth if you prefer. We love the idea of adding raisins to this dish.

Source: lifeasastrawberry.com

59. Roasted Vegan Tomato Basil Soup

Most people love a steaming bowl of creamy tomato basil soup, but when you roast the tomatoes for this classic soup, you get a burst of sun dried tomato flavor.

Other ingredients in this tomato soup are garlic, onion, thyme, olive oil, vegetable stock, and fresh lemon juice.

Source: dinneratthezoo.com

60. Watermelon Salad

It may seem unusual to see watermelon in a salad, but when paired with other cool foods such as fresh mint leaves and cucumbers, you have one cool salad!

Other ingredients in this salad are feta cheese crumbles, fresh lime juice, and olive oil.

Source: cearaskitchen.com

61. Tomato and Cucumber Salad

This Mediterranean salad made with cucumbers and tomatoes will be at home with any meal, even summer BBQ.

To make this classic Mediterranean tomato and cucumber salad, you need chopped tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, a hot red pepper, chopped green onion (scallions), fresh lemon juice, cilantro, and sea salt.

Do you want more Mediterranean diet recipe ideas? Check out this video below that has 12 bonus Mediterranean diet recipe options you can make if you love Middle Eastern cuisine and foods from around the Mediterranean Sea area. Who knew the Mediterranean diet could be so delicious?