19 Mediterranean meals that’ll inspire a rousing round of plate-smashing

Photo of author

| Published:

Step into the warm embrace of the Mediterranean with 19 incredible dishes that are perfect for sharing with friends and bringing excitement to the dinner table. Each one is a celebration of the region’s love for good food, and might just make you feel like breaking a plate in joy—though, of course, that’s optional. The recipes focus on simple, wholesome ingredients crafted into satisfying meals that are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Grilled Feta with Herbs in a black serving dish with toasted bread and a lemon wedge.
Grilled Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Chicken breast with herbs, cheese and tomatoes.
Mediterranean Chicken Bake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm, comforting, and just the right blend of herbs and spices welcome you with every forkful. It’s a cozy meal that serves up a taste of the Mediterranean in your own home. Let your kitchen be filled with the aroma of roasted chicken and herbed vegetables, all coming together in this oven-baked favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Shirazi Salad

Shirazi Salad in a white serving bowl.
Shirazi Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crisp, fresh, and brimming with brightness, this salad is a staple when looking to add a side of refreshment to your meal. It merges simple ingredients into a celebration of texture and flavor, perfect for complementing any main course. Relish the simplicity of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and herbs that make Shirazi Salad a must-have for sunny days.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mediterranean Cod

Mediterranean cod on a rectangular platter.
Mediterranean Cod. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish infuses the flaky tenderness of cod with the essence of the sea, intertwined with a blend of Mediterranean herbs. It’s an effortless choice for a nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Enjoy the lightness that Mediterranean Cod brings to the table, whether on a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Greek Lemon Garlic Potatoes in a black dish with lemon in the background.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A side that shines bright with the tanginess of lemon and a hearty rustic appeal. It matches perfectly with a variety of mains, bringing a touch of Greek flair to any plate. The oven-cooked potatoes are infused with citrus and herb notes, making Greek Lemon Potatoes a crowd-pleaser with their soft interior and golden exterior.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a light, herby option packed with the vibrant color and taste of pesto, ideal for a side or a light meal. Orzo, the rice-shaped pasta, serves as the perfect base to absorb the rich flavors. Pesto Orzo Salad is a refreshing choice that pairs splendidly with summer barbecues or as a standalone dish.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Kefta Beef Kabobs

Kefta Beef Kabobs stacked on a white platter.
Kefta Beef Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

These skewers are not only fun to eat but also loaded with spices and the savory goodness of grilled beef. They perfectly capture the spirit of casual gatherings and al fresco dining. Whether it’s a family cookout or a quiet dinner, Kefta Beef Kabobs deliver a touch of the exotic grill side.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Whipped Feta

Whipped Feta on a black plate with grilled bread.
Whipped Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamy, tangy, and oh so spreadable, this appetizer will have you coming back for more. It’s the perfect companion to crusty bread or crunchy vegetables. Spread it on a sandwich or dollop onto a salad, and Whipped Feta will surely be a memorable part of your meal.
Get the Recipe: Whipped Feta

Greek Meatballs

Greek Meatballs on a plate with tomatoes.
Greek Meatballs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Juicy, flavorful, and great for sharing, these meatballs are a nod to Greek cuisine. There’s a twist of lemon, a hint of garlic, and just the right seasoning to make Greek Meatballs a hit at any gathering. Serve them up at your next party or family dinner and they might just steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Grilled Lemon-Oregano Chicken Kabobs with a dipping sauce.
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Smoky from the grill and bursting with citrus and herbs, these kabobs are a zingy twist on traditional BBQ. They’re quick to cook and serve as a flavorful, lighter option for your grilling days. Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs offers a taste of Mediterranean zest, perfect for those who love a touch of tang with their meat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Four Mediterranean Tuna Salad stuffed avocados on a white plate.
Mediterranean Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Refreshing, light, and packed with protein, this salad is a great pick for health-conscious diners. It tells a story of a sunny Mediterranean coast with every bite of tuna and crisp vegetables. Mediterranean Tuna Salad offers a fulfilling meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Greek Salad

Greek Salad with a round block of feta in the middle.
Greek Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Known for its colorful presentation and crisp, mouth-watering ingredients, this salad is the essence of Greek cuisine. It brings together ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, and creamy feta in a medley of flavors. Greek Salad is a refreshing step away from your usual greens and makes for a robust stand-alone meal or an accompaniment.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad

Mediterranean Rice

Mediterranean Rice in a black bowl on concrete.
Mediterranean Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Satisfy your cravings for something warm and comforting with a dish that’s hearty yet not too heavy. This rice is a versatile side that complements a vast array of main courses, with each grain carrying the essence of Mediterranean spices. A helping of Mediterranean Rice promises to round out any meal with its comforting warmth.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

Crab Spanakopita

Crab Spanakopita triangles on a cutting board.
Crab Spanakopita. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the delightful combination of succulent crab and spinach wrapped in a flaky pastry. It’s an innovative twist on the classic Greek pie. Crab Spanakopita makes for an appetizing starter or a light meal, ideal for those who like their seafood with a side of Greek tradition.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfect for when you want a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Ripe cherry tomatoes burst with flavor atop al dente pasta in this dish. Enjoy the simple, yet sumptious flavors that Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce has to offer.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

A bowl of Mediterranean orzo salad on a black plate.
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dive into a refreshing mix of tiny pasta pearls, succulent shrimp, and fresh veggies. It’s substantial enough to stand as a meal on its own and a standout addition to any potluck spread. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp combines the best of land and sea for those who love variety in their meals.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Tzatziki

A bowl of dill dip with a sprig of dill.
Tzatziki. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Always cool and always creamy, this dip is a staple condiment that adds a fresh touch. Whether you’re drizzling it over gyros or dipping fresh vegetables into it, Tzatziki is the perfect complement. Its garlic and cucumber flavor welcomes anyone looking to add a bit of zest to their dishes.
Get the Recipe: Tzatziki

Grilled Feta

Grilled Feta with Herbs in a black serving dish with toasted bread and a lemon wedge.
Grilled Feta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transform cheese into a main event with a few minutes on the grill for a smoky, melty sensation. Eaten alone or added to a salad or wrap, Grilled Feta is versatile and full of flavor. It’s a simple way to bring some excitement to your meal and impress guests with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Shrimp skewers on a white plate with lemon wedges.
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Quick to cook and impressive on a plate, these shrimps capture the essence of seaside dining. They are great for a light yet savory option, infused with garlic and herbs. Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp offers a simple and flavorful way to enjoy seafood.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Three Ninja Woodfire Grill Mediterranean Lamb Chops topped with gremolata on a white plate.
Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For those who appreciate tender meat enriched with robust seasoning, these lamb chops don’t disappoint. They deliver a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with wine. Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops make for an elegant main course that’s straightforward yet sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.