Are you looking for a culinary escape to the Mediterranean without leaving your kitchen? Look no further! This collection of 20 delicious and easy-to-make recipes will transport you to the sun-kissed shores of Greece, Turkey, and beyond. From classic appetizers like Hummus with Pita Bread and Spanakopita Spinach Pie, to hearty main courses such as Lemon Garlic Salmon and Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers, these recipes showcase the bold flavors and simple elegance that define the Mediterranean diet.
In this article, we’ll explore a diverse range of dishes that are perfect for weeknights – from quick and easy wraps to satisfying salads and more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. So let’s dive in and start exploring the delicious world of Mediterranean cuisine!
Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers
Brighten up your mealtime with these flavorful and refreshing Greek-inspired chicken skewers, infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, 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
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This refreshing quinoa salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a mix of textures and colors. Perfect as a healthy lunch or dinner, it’s also great for potlucks and picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and feta cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the quinoa mixture and toss to combine.
4. Stir in chopped parsley.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Hummus with Pita Bread
This classic Middle Eastern dip is a staple for any snack or party. With just a few ingredients and minutes to spare, you can enjoy creamy hummus paired with crispy pita bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pita bread
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, tahini, garlic, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. With the blender or food processor still running, slowly pour in the olive oil.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Warm pita bread by wrapping it in foil and heating in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve hummus with warmed pita bread, garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Garlic Herb Shrimp Pasta
This delectable pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful garlic herb sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until reduced by half.
5. Stir in parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the garlic herb sauce.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss with the pasta.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Couscous
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this flavorful and nutritious Roasted Vegetable Couscous recipe, packed with a medley of roasted vegetables and fluffy couscous.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup couscous
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– 1 small red onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the couscous and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
3. Toss the chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Fluff the cooked couscous with a fork and mix with roasted vegetables, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spanakopita Spinach Pie
This traditional Spanakopita recipe is a flavorful and savory spinach pie that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crispy phyllo crust and creamy spinach filling, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the spinach, feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add the cooked spinach mixture to the egg and mix well.
6. Layer the phyllo dough with the spinach filling, leaving a 1-inch border around each layer. Brush the top layer of phyllo with olive oil.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the phyllo is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad
This salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring juicy tomatoes, refreshing cucumbers, crumbly feta cheese, and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 medium cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 block of feta cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced tomatoes and sliced cucumbers.
2. Crumble the feta cheese over the top of the tomato-cucumber mixture.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and white wine vinegar over the salad, tossing to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time only)
Lemon Garlic Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and moist Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and savory salmon is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon, then sprinkle minced garlic and lemon juice evenly over each fillet.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mediterranean Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on a classic recipe, these Mediterranean-inspired stuffed bell peppers are perfect for a healthy and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 together cooked rice, feta cheese, parsley, mint, and olives.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chickpea and Avocado Wrap
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy whole wheat tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla (10-12 inches)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together chickpeas, avocado, cilantro, and lemon juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Spoon the chickpea mixture onto one half of the tortilla.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Grilled Halloumi with Zucchini
Grilled Halloumi with Zucchini: A Simple yet Flavorful Summer Side Dish
This recipe combines the creamy richness of grilled halloumi cheese with the tender sweetness of zucchini, making it a perfect accompaniment to your summer meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the halloumi cheese with olive oil on both sides.
3. Place the halloumi on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
6. Serve the grilled halloumi alongside the zucchini.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Easy Baba Ganoush
Easy Baba Ganoush Recipe
Baba Ganoush is a popular Middle Eastern dip made with roasted eggplants, garlic, and tahini. This recipe is a simplified version that requires minimal preparation time and yields delicious results.
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
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast the eggplants for 30-40 minutes, or until they are soft and charred.
4. Allow the eggplants to cool slightly, then scoop out the flesh and place it in a blender or food processor.
5. Add the tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and olive oil to the blender. Blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve the Baba Ganoush with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Lentil Soup
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful Mediterranean Lentil Soup, packed with tender lentils, aromatic spices, and a hint of citrus. This comforting bowl is perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
One-Pan Mediterranean Chicken Bake
A flavorful and aromatic one-pan dish that combines juicy chicken, tangy feta cheese, and sweet sun-dried tomatoes, all infused with the warmth of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add onion, garlic, bell peppers, olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes to the pan. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the Mediterranean mixture.
6. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tzatziki Sauce with Veggie Sticks
A classic Greek condiment, Tzatziki Sauce is a perfect accompaniment to crunchy veggie sticks. This easy-to-make recipe is a great way to add flavor and freshness to your snacks or meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, bell peppers), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated cucumber and salt. Let it sit for 5 minutes to remove excess water.
2. Squeeze out the excess liquid from the cucumber mixture using a paper towel or clean kitchen cloth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together yogurt, dill, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Add the drained cucumber mixture to the yogurt mixture and stir gently to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled with veggie sticks.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 15-20 minutes)
Greek Style Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the savory taste of feta cheese and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the cheese mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and place them in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this easy-to-make flatbread pizza, perfect for a weeknight dinner or impromptu gathering. With a crispy crust and tangy toppings, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh oregano leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the flatbread to your desired thickness.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Top with olives, feta cheese, and artichoke hearts.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and toppings are heated through.
6. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and quick Mediterranean flatbread pizza!
Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes
Brighten up your meal with this flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the natural sweetness of potatoes with the zestiness of lemon and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Falafel Patties
A flavorful and convenient snack or meal option, these easy falafel patties are made with a simple blend of chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add breadcrumbs, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired patty size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty.
6. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Orzo Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy texture of orzo with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, it’s packed with nutritious ingredients and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and parsley.
3. Add cooked orzo to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these 20 flavorful and easy-to-make recipes perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. From classic dishes like hummus, falafel, and shawarma-inspired wraps to creative twists on pasta, quinoa salads, and roasted vegetables, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouth-watering Mediterranean recipes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple and delicious meals are sure to become new favorites.
