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The Passport Kitchen

30 Mediterranean Diet Recipes That Give Off Real Summer Vibes

July 10, 2024 by Donna Dizon Leave a Comment

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The Mediterranean diet draws inspiration from the age-old culinary traditions of Mediterranean countries like France, Spain, Greece, and Italy. Studies show that people from these regions enjoy better overall health and face fewer chronic diseases than those following a typical American diet, which has made it super popular. 

Of course, the food is really good, so that helps! You may not be able to go on vacation, but you can enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean right in your own kitchen. Enjoy!

Psari Plaki – Greek Baked Fish With Onions & Tomatoes

Psari Plaki – Greek Baked Fish with Onions & Tomatoes.
Image Credit: Gypsy Plate.

Mother’s day recipe alert… It’s special, it’s fancy and it’s delicious!! I have a great fish recipe called Psari Plaki, meaning roasted fish… Greek style! Treat your mom with succulent, flaky, buttery fish drenched in the most delicious sauce, baked with Mediterranean flavors.

Get the Recipe: Psari Plaki – Greek Baked Fish with Onions & Tomatoes

Pesce Alla Ghiotta (Sicilian Fish With Potatoes and Olives)

Pesce alla Ghiotta (Sicilian Fish with Potatoes and Olives).
Image Credit: Enzas Quail Hollow Kitchen.

Pesce alla Ghiotta is quite possibly one of the most flavorful ways to prepare fish. This rustic Sicilian recipe calls for poaching cod in a savory tomato and olive-based broth alongside potato wedges for a memorable one-pot meal. Be sure to serve it with a loaf of crusty bread so you can soak up every drop of the delicious sauce.

Get the Recipe: Pesce alla Ghiotta (Sicilian Fish with Potatoes and Olives)

Caprese Salad With Basil Pesto

Caprese Salad with Basil Pesto.
Image Credit: 100 Days of Real Food.

This variation of the Caprese Salad (pronounced ka-PRAY-ze) is especially fabulous with locally grown in-season tomatoes. This recipe is super simple to throw together as a light lunch, snack, or appetizer. With just tomatoes, cheese, basil, and pesto, you have yourself a yummy meal.

Get the Recipe: Caprese Salad with Basil Pesto

Farinata – Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread

Farinata – Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread.
Image Credit: Xoxo Bella.

Farinata might not be a dish you’ve tried before, or even heard of, but it’s a delicious Italian street food recipe. This tasty dish is based on chickpea flour (garbanzo bean flour). Garlic and fresh rosemary add vibrant flavors to the farinata and then you can add whichever toppings you want to your chickpea pancake. It’s a rustic and hearty flatbread with a savory and nutty flavor. It can be an appetizer, snack, or side dish to serve with soups and salads. I am certain you will love Italian chickpea pancake flatbread!

Get the Recipe: Farinata – Italian Chickpea Pancake Flatbread

Lemon Caper Pasta

LEMON CAPER PASTA.
Image Credit: Little Nonni.

This lemon caper pasta is bursting with fresh, citrus flavor! It’s made with al dente pasta tossed in a savory caper sauce, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s the perfect light pasta for summer nights or anytime you need a quick, satisfying meal!

Get the Recipe: Lemon Caper Pasta

Mediterranean Greek Salad

Mediterranean Greek Salad.
Image Credit: Delicious Meets Healthy.

This Greek salad recipe is brimming with flavor. It’s loaded with delicious fresh vegetables, olives, and feta cheese tossed in a light and refreshing Greek salad dressing.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Greek Salad

Mediterranean Diet and Skillet Chicken Shawarma Recipe

MEDITERRANEAN DIET AND SKILLET CHICKEN SHAWARMA RECIPE.
Image Credit: The Kitchen Docs.

Some of you might argue that Mediterranean and Skillet chicken shawarma are the same thing. It is true that chicken shawarma is considered more Middle Eastern than Mediterranean, but then I ask, how does it matter?

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Diet and Skillet Chicken Shawarma Recipe

Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce.
Image Credit: Delicious Meets Healthy.

Perfectly creamy and fresh, this easy tzatziki sauce is so simple to make at home. This Greek cucumber yogurt sauce is ready to serve in minutes and perfect for dip or spread.

Get the Recipe: Tzatziki Sauce

One Skillet Spanish Pesto Chicken Thighs

ONE SKILLET SPANISH PESTO CHICKEN THIGHS
Image Credit: My Chef’s Apron.

If you want to make something special for dinner or a momentous event, this One-Skillet Spanish Pesto Chicken Thighs recipe is your go-to.
This delicious chicken dinner promises unique flavor, juicy chicken thighs, and the rich, herby goodness of an easy-to-make Picada pesto. The best part is that it pairs with just about anything. Let’s make it!

Get the Recipe: One Skillet Spanish Pesto Chicken Thighs

Healthy Mediterranean Grain Bowl

HEALTHY MEDITERRANEAN GRAIN BOWL.
Image Credit: Moderately Messy RD.

This Mediterranean grain bowl is a staple in our household. It’s my go-to meal whenever I don’t feel like looking up new recipes for the week. It’s just a meal that feels fresh and healthy—with the antioxidants from the veggies, fiber from the quinoa and beans, and healthy fats from the olive oil and chopped walnuts.

Get the Recipe: Healthy Mediterranean Grain Bowl

Best Mediterranean Salmon Recipe

Best Mediterranean Salmon Recipe.
Image Credit: Haute & Healthy Living.

This healthy Mediterranean Salmon recipe is perfectly pan-fried, resulting in perfectly moist and flavourful fish! Packed with flavor, color, and nutrients, it’s easy enough to make on busy weeknights and can be prepared in less than 30 minutes! {Gluten-free & keto-friendly}

Get the Recipe: Best Mediterranean Salmon Recipe

Mediterranean Style Steamed Artichokes

Mediterranean Style Steamed Artichokes.
Image Credit: What A Girl Eats.

Yum! These Mediterranean-style steamed Artichokes are super easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Style Steamed Artichokes

5-Minute Hummus Without Garlic in a Blender 

5-Minute Hummus Without Garlic in a Blender (Oil-free + VIDEO).
Image Credit: The Fruity Jem.

The BEST homemade hummus without garlic in just 5 minutes. Made using a blender without a food processor, this easy & creamy hummus is a total crowd-pleaser!

Get the Recipe: 5-Minute Hummus Without Garlic in a Blender

Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos With Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe.
Image Credit: amycaseycooks.

Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Tzatziki Sauce is not your run-of-the-mill shrimp taco recipe. Parmesan-roasted shrimp are piled into soft, warm tortillas along with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a cool and creamy cucumber yogurt tzatziki sauce. This is a quick recipe that does not skimp on delicious flavor.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Shrimp Tacos with Tzatziki Sauce Recipe

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers With Couscous

Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Couscous
Image Credit: ourhappymess.

Vegetarian Mediterranean stuffed peppers with couscous are easy to make and packed with fresh flavor. Perfect as a main or side, they are as nutritious as delicious!

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers with Couscous

Sautéed White Beans With Tomatoes & Garlic

SAUTÉED WHITE BEANS WITH TOMATOES & GARLIC.
Image Credit: Flavorful Eats.

White beans sautéed with fresh garlic, herbs, and ripe tomatoes are a flavorful, healthy side dish that perfectly complements your favorite protein. Sautéed White Beans with Tomatoes and garlic is Mediterranean Diet-friendly and ready in under 20 minutes!

Get the Recipe: SAUTÉED WHITE BEANS WITH TOMATOES & GARLIC

Italian Chicken Drumsticks

ITALIAN CHICKEN DRUMSTICKS.
Image Credit: The Short Order Cook.

This is the best recipe for Grilled Marinated Italian Chicken Drumsticks you will ever eat. It has authentic ingredients, including a yummy lemon, pepper, garlic, and herb marinade. It has just a few simple ingredients and easy steps—perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken Drumsticks

Israeli Salad With Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Roasted Nuts

Israeli Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Roasted Nuts.
Image Credit: A Little And A Lot.

Looking for a salad that’s both healthy and delicious? Look no further than Israeli Salad!
This Middle Eastern salad recipe is low in calories, vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free. It is the perfect option for dietary restrictions and anyone interested in clean, plant-based meals. But don’t let its health benefits fool you. Israeli Salad is also bursting with flavor and easy to prepare. So whether you’re looking for a quick lunchtime bite or a tasty side dish for dinner tonight, this salad has got you covered.

Get the Recipe: Israeli Salad with Pomegranate Vinaigrette and Roasted Nuts

Grilled Eggplants

GRILLED EGGPLANTS.
Image Credit: Mediterranean Latin Love Affair.

Grilled Eggplants make the perfect Mediterranean side dish for a summer barbecue. They are so easy to prepare and can be served with a variety of sauces and toppings. A popular topping for grilled eggplant is parsley, mint, and za’atar sauce, which adds a bright and flavorful contrast to the smoky eggplant.

Get the Recipe: Grilled Eggplants

Mediterranean Cucumber Salad With Tomato, Parsley, and Onion

Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Tomato, Parsley, and Onion
Image Credit: Mandi of the Mountains.

This Mediterranean cucumber salad is the fresh and easy side dish you’ll make all! This light and fresh cucumber and tomato salad doesn’t need any cooking and only requires 6 simple ingredients.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cucumber Salad with Tomato, Parsley, and Onion

Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Wrap With Prosciutto & Spinach

Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Wrap with Prosciutto & Spinach.
Image Credit: My Delicious Meal.

You may have seen the viral cottage cheese wrap recipes making waves on social media. There’s even a cottage cheese-only version out there. Still, as someone who’s usually skeptical of single-ingredient recipes, I decided to take it to the next level by creating this Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Wrap recipe.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cottage Cheese Wrap with Prosciutto & Spinach

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

The Best Greek Chicken Marinade.
Image Credit: The Forked Spoon.

This easy and delicious Greek Chicken Marinade brings all the classic Greek flavors to your kitchen table. Made with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, it takes just minutes to whip together and calls for only a handful of fresh and healthy ingredients.

Get the Recipe: The Best Greek Chicken Marinade

Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet

MEDITERRANEAN CHICKPEA SKILLET.
Image Credit: Parsley & Parm.

This Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet definitely helped that process along. It’s made with fiber—and protein-rich chickpeas simmered with lightly spiced tomatoes and greens. It’s topped off with…what else? Lots of feta! It takes 20 minutes to get on the table and only needs some warm whole wheat pita bread on the side.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chickpea Skillet

Easy Baked Mediterranean Salmon With Olive Tapenade

Easy Baked Mediterranean Salmon with Olive Tapenade.
Image Credit: The Tastes of Life.

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with our tantalizing recipe for Easy Baked Mediterranean Salmon with Mixed Olive Tapenade. This wild sockeye or king salmon with olive tapenade is an effortless but impressive dish you can cook in only 20 minutes! You only need a large wild sockeye salmon fillet, healthy Mediterranean toppings (delicious!), and a sheet pan.

Get the Recipe: Easy Baked Mediterranean Salmon with Olive Tapenade

Salmon Quinoa Salad

SALMON QUINOA SALAD.
Image Credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This delicious salmon quinoa salad has perfectly seared salmon, crisp cucumbers, sweet cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a vibrant lemon vinaigrette. Serve it for lunch, prepare it for meal prep, or bring it to your next picnic or BBQ!

Get the Recipe: Salmon Quinoa Salad

Mediterranean Tabouli With Poached Eggs

Mediterranean Tabouli with Poached Eggs.
Image Credit: The Healthy Epicurean.

This is a breakfast (or brunch) version of classic Mediterranean tabouli. It features poached eggs and pita wedges for a delicious, satisfying, and easy meal!

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tabouli with Poached Eggs

Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant With Tahini

Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant with Tahini.
Image Credit: Debra Klein.

This Mediterranean Eggplant Recipe is Summer Side Dish Perfection. Eggplant slices are brushed with fresh herbs and garlic for amazing flavor and baked on a sheet pan topped with the most delicious herby lemon tahini sauce. I could easily eat this as a main course. Period. End of story.

Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Roasted Eggplant with Tahini

Spiced Vegan Cous Cous Salad

Spiced Vegan Cous Cous Salad.
Image Credit: My Good Food World.

This spiced vegan cous cous recipe is wholesome, packed full of flavors, and so versatile that it can be your breakfast, lunch, or dinner! It tastes good warm or cold and, therefore, is a good option for a make-ahead meal. The best part? It comes together in 20 minutes!

Get the Recipe: Spiced Vegan Cous Cous Salad

Whipped Lemon Feta

WHIPPED LEMON FETA.
Image Cresit: The Heirloom Pantry.

Ditch the boring dips and spreads, and try our Whipped Lemon Feta! It’s tangy, bright, and bursting with herbaceous flavor. Enjoy it for a game day with chips or as a base for roasted veggies and protein.

Get the Recipe: Whipped Lemon Feta

Greek Cucumber Sauce Recipe

Greek Cucumber Sauce Recipe.
Image Credit: Fun Food Frolic.

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a healthy snack, this Greek Cucumber Sauce, also known as Tzatziki, is sure to impress and satisfy.

Get the Recipe: Greek Cucumber Sauce Recipe

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