Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast with these 20 flavorful recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From classic Greek salad and creamy hummus to hearty stews and savory pies, this region is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and rich culinary heritage.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, exploring the best of its cuisines from Greece to Morocco. Whether you’re looking for quick and easy meals, impressive dinner party recipes, or satisfying snacks, we’ve got you covered with our selection of delicious and authentic Mediterranean dishes.
From classic favorites like spanakopita and lamb gyros, to innovative twists on traditional recipes like grilled halloumi and lemon garlic shrimp, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So why not start your culinary adventure today and discover the incredible flavors and aromas of the Mediterranean?
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Experience the quintessential flavors of Greece with this simple and delicious salad. Combining crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, pungent olives, crumbly feta cheese, and a tangy dressing, this recipe is sure to transport you to the sun-kissed Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, arugula, and/or spinach)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the salad.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Hummus with Roasted Garlic and Lemon
Elevate your hummus game with this flavorful twist that combines the richness of roasted garlic with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons tahini
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Drain and rinse chickpeas. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, roasted garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and tahini.
4. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. With the blender running, slowly add water and continue blending until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)
Spanakopita is a beloved Greek dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. This spinach and feta pie is an ode to the Mediterranean diet, packed with nutrients and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, onion, garlic, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Pour the spinach mixture into the pie crust.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and healthy skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck. Marinated in a zesty mixture of herbs and spices, chicken breast is paired with colorful bell peppers and onions for a vibrant and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breast to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers.
4. Brush with remaining marinade and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shakshuka with Feta and Fresh Herbs
This Mediterranean-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy brunch or dinner, packed with the rich flavors of feta cheese, fresh herbs, and tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley and oregano leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add cherry tomatoes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Create 2-3 wells in the vegetable mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and transfer skillet to the oven.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until eggs are set and whites are opaque.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and oregano leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baba Ganoush with Pomegranate Seeds
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and tangy Baba Ganoush recipe, infused with the sweetness of pomegranate seeds. Perfect for veggie lovers and adventurous eaters alike!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut eggplants in half lengthwise and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out flesh and blend with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil.
4. Stir in pomegranate seeds.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce
This classic Greek street food is a perfect combination of juicy lamb, crispy pita, and refreshing tzatziki sauce. With this simple recipe, you’ll be enjoying authentic gyros in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 pita breads
– Tzatziki Sauce (recipe below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine lamb, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the lamb patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm pita breads by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
6. Assemble gyros by placing a few slices of lamb on each pita, topping with tzatziki sauce, and serving immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious main course with this simple recipe that combines the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with the sweetness of roasted peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each pepper with the mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Falafel with Tahini Dressing
This classic Middle Eastern street food recipe combines the addictive flavors of crispy falafel with a tangy and creamy tahini dressing. Perfect as a snack or main course, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tahini dressing (see below)
Tahini Dressing:
– 1/2 cup tahini paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Process until coarsely chopped.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties or balls.
4. Fry falafel in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with tahini dressing, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tabbouleh with Fresh Mint and Parsley
Tabbouleh is a refreshing Middle Eastern salad that’s perfect for hot summer days. This recipe adds the brightness of fresh mint to the classic combination of bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fine bulgur
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the bulgur according to package instructions. Allow it to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked bulgur, parsley, mint leaves, and tomato.
3. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss again.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Grilled Halloumi with Honey and Figs
This sweet and savory recipe combines the creamy richness of halloumi cheese with the natural sweetness of honey and caramelized figs. Perfect for a summer evening or as an appetizer for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of halloumi cheese
– 2 ripe figs, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the halloumi for 2-3 minutes per side, until slightly charred and melted.
4. Meanwhile, brush the sliced figs with honey and place them on a piece of aluminum foil or a grill mat.
5. Place the grilled figs next to the cheese slices and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Orzo
A flavorful and refreshing seafood dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine with any remaining garlic and oil.
6. Combine the cooked orzo, shrimp, and lemon garlic sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Basil
A classic Italian-American dish gets a fresh twist with the addition of fragrant basil leaves. This recipe yields a crispy, cheesy eggplant parmesan that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 2 tbsp)
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour and salt.
3. Dip eggplant slices in the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Fry coated eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Place fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon tomato sauce over the eggplant, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Top with chopped basil leaves and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Lemon Potatoes with Oregano
A classic Greek side dish that combines the brightness of lemon with the earthiness of oregano, these potatoes are a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pita Bread with Za’atar and Olive Oil
This classic Middle Eastern combination of flavors is a perfect accompaniment to any meal or snack. With just a few ingredients, you can create crispy pita bread infused with the aromatic herbs of za’atar and a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup lukewarm water
– 1 tablespoon za’atar (a blend of thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sumac)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Gradually add lukewarm water and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions.
6. Roll out each portion into a ball and then flatten into disks.
7. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with za’atar.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until pita bread is crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the bright, refreshing flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, parsley, mint, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese (if using), and red onion.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Seafood Paella with Saffron
This classic Spanish dish combines succulent seafood with flavorful saffron-infused rice, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. With its aromatic spices and savory flavors, this paella is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/2 pound chorizo, sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, mussels, and chorizo; cook until seafood is pink, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in saffron mixture, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add rice and water to the pan; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip
Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip: A flavorful and colorful dip perfect for snacking or entertaining!
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted (see notes)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel the roasted red peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, feta cheese, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (roasting the peppers)
Notes: To roast red bell peppers, place them on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes or until charred and blistered. Let cool before peeling.
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
This classic Middle Eastern dish is a flavorful and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delicate combination of rice, herbs, and spices wrapped in tender grape leaves, dolmas are sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 20-24 grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the grape leaves. If using fresh leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove from heat and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped herbs, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Lay a grape leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
4. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the leaf to form a neat package. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook dolmas for about 10 minutes on each side, or until they’re tender and lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Moroccan Chickpea and Vegetable Tagine
Discover the rich flavors of Morocco with this hearty and aromatic chickpea and vegetable tagine, perfect for a comforting meal or as a flavorful addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 zucchini, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and water (about 1 cup). Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; cover and cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic Greek dishes like Spanakopita and Lamb Gyros, to spicy Shakshuka and rich Baba Ganoush, there’s something for every occasion. Enjoy the fresh herbs and citrus notes of Tabbouleh and Lemon Garlic Shrimp, or the comforting warmth of Mediterranean Quinoa Salad and Seafood Paella. Discover new favorites like Roasted Red Pepper and Feta Dip and Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas), and treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
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