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29 Dishes That Feel Like a Lazy Afternoon on the Amalfi Coast—But Without the Jet Lag

These 29 dishes bring the best kind of Mediterranean ease—big flavors, minimal effort, and nothing that requires standing over a stove for hours. Whether it’s something bright and citrusy, rich and savory, or just an excuse to eat like someone with an ocean view, each dish fits right into that laid-back, Amalfi-inspired state of mind. The only decision left is whether to pair it with a spritz or a long nap.

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

Mediterranean Chicken Bake

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

Comfort food without the effort, Mediterranean Chicken Bake is the kind of dish that goes in the oven and does all the work itself. Big, bold flavors come together in a way that feels hearty but not heavy. It’s the perfect balance of fresh, rich, and just enough herbs to make it feel like something special. Pair it with a simple side, and it’s an easy way to make any dinner feel a little more interesting. Less time cooking, more time enjoying.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Mediterranean Cod

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

Light but satisfying, this dish is packed with fresh flavors that make it an easy go-to for a relaxed meal. Mediterranean Cod brings together simple ingredients that balance richness and brightness in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels effortless but still delivers big on flavor. Serve it with something crisp on the side, and suddenly, it’s a dinner that feels like a quiet afternoon by the sea. No passport required, just a fork.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Classic Pork Souvlaki

Three pieces of Pork Souvlaki with a bowl of white sauce and pieces of flatbread on a black slate serving board.
Classic Pork Souvlaki. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

The kind of meal that works for any occasion, Classic Pork Souvlaki is all about bold flavors and easy prep. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, and just the right amount of smoky, it’s great on its own or tucked into warm pita with fresh toppings. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for those who like their meals fast but full of flavor. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a reason to fire up the grill, this one delivers. And yes, napkins are recommended.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

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Pesto Orzo Salad

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

Bright, fresh, and packed with herby goodness, Pesto Orzo Salad is as good as it is simple. The mix of flavors and textures makes it a solid side or a light main dish. It’s the kind of thing that feels like summer in a bowl, no matter what season it is. Serve it chilled, at room temperature, or straight from the fridge—it’s good every way. Just don’t be surprised when there are no leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwich served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When a meal needs to be quick but still taste like actual effort was involved, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are the answer. Juicy, flavorful meatballs get tucked into soft pita with fresh toppings for a handheld meal that’s anything but boring. It’s easy, satisfying, and just messy enough to feel fun. Whether for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon snack, it’s proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. Bonus: no utensils required.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Greek Meatballs

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

Juicy, seasoned just right, and packed with flavor, Greek Meatballs make an easy main or the perfect addition to just about anything. Serve them with a simple dip, over rice, or tucked into pita—there’s no wrong way to enjoy them. The mix of herbs and spices gives them a bold but balanced flavor that works for any occasion. They’re easy to make, easier to eat, and impossible not to go back for more. Plan accordingly.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs

Horiatiki Salad

Horiatiki Salad with feta cheese on top served on a plate.
Horiatiki Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Nothing fancy, just a perfectly balanced mix of fresh, crisp, and briny flavors. Horiatiki Salad keeps things simple but delivers exactly what’s needed for a light, refreshing bite. It’s the kind of salad that works on its own or alongside just about anything else. No unnecessary extras—just the right mix of textures and flavors to keep things interesting. If there were ever a case for keeping it classic, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

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.

Cheese lovers, this one is for you. Grilled Feta takes something already great and gives it a little extra punch with heat and a few simple additions. The result? A dish that’s creamy, slightly smoky, and impossible to stop eating. Whether served as a starter, side, or just a snack, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Best enjoyed with good company—or alone with no shame.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

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.

Light but packed with flavor, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is the perfect mix of fresh, bright, and hearty. It’s the kind of dish that works for lunch, dinner, or whenever something easy but satisfying is needed. The balance of textures keeps every bite interesting, and it pairs well with just about anything. It’s proof that simple ingredients can still make a meal feel special. Bonus: it tastes just as good cold, so leftovers are never a bad idea.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Mediterranean Salmon

Mediterranean Salmon on a white rectangular plate.
Mediterranean Salmon. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When in doubt, go for Mediterranean Salmon. It’s flaky, flavorful, and has just the right mix of richness and freshness to make it feel like something special. Whether served on its own or alongside a simple side, it’s an easy way to get a restaurant-worthy meal without much effort. The flavors do the work, and the end result is something that looks and tastes like more effort was put in than actually was. Less stress, better dinner.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

A black bowl filled with tabbouleh salad with smoked tomatoes.
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Light but full of bold flavors, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is all about fresh ingredients and balanced textures. The smoked tomatoes add depth, giving this classic salad an extra layer of complexity. It’s refreshing enough for a warm afternoon but satisfying enough to stand alone as a meal. Perfect as a side, a snack, or something to pack for later. Simple, fresh, and impossible to stop eating.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

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.

Perfectly seasoned and cooked just right, Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops are big on flavor with minimal effort. The mix of herbs and spices brings out the richness, creating a dish that’s both bold and balanced. Whether grilled to perfection or cooked indoors, they make any meal feel a little more special. Serve them with something fresh on the side, and it’s an easy way to turn dinner into something worth remembering. No reservations needed, just a good appetite.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Cucumber Salad with Feta

Cucumber and Feta salad in a black bowl.
Cucumber Salad with Feta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crisp, refreshing, and just the right amount of creamy, Cucumber Salad with Feta is simple but never boring. The balance of textures keeps every bite interesting, making it the perfect side or light meal. It’s cool enough for a hot day but works year-round when something fresh is needed. Whether piled onto a plate or eaten straight from the bowl, it disappears fast. A little crunch, a little tang, and a whole lot of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Pastitsio

A square piece of pastitsio dish served on a stack of black plates.
Pastitsio. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Comfort food at its best, Pastitsio is all about layers of rich flavors and hearty textures. It’s like a Mediterranean twist on baked pasta, bringing together just the right mix of creamy, savory, and satisfying. Perfect for a family meal or a dish that guarantees leftovers (if you’re lucky). Every bite is packed with warmth and just the right balance of indulgence. Not complicated, just really good food that sticks with you.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Simple ingredients, big flavor—Fasolakia Lathera proves that sometimes, less is more. Slow-cooked until tender, these green beans soak up every bit of goodness, making them a side dish that steals the spotlight. They’re hearty enough to stand alone but pair well with just about anything. Whether served warm or cold, they taste even better the next day. Not your average side dish, and that’s exactly the point.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans

Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Chopped Salad with crumbled feta cheese, on a yellow plate with flower designs.
Mediterranean Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Crisp, colorful, and full of crunch, Mediterranean Chopped Salad is everything a salad should be. Every bite is packed with fresh flavors, balanced textures, and just the right amount of seasoning to keep things interesting. It’s satisfying enough to stand on its own but works just as well next to something heartier. The best part? No complicated prep—just chop, toss, and enjoy. Effortless, refreshing, and never boring.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Baked Feta Pasta

Baked Feta Pasta on a platter.
Baked Feta Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When pasta night needs a little something extra, Baked Feta Pasta is the answer. Creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor, it turns simple ingredients into something that feels special. The baked feta creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every bite perfectly. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but good enough to make it feel like a treat. No fancy techniques, just really good food.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Light but packed with flavor, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp is perfect for when a meal needs to be quick but still feel special. A simple marinade brings out the best in every bite, with just the right balance of fresh and smoky flavors. They’re great on their own, over salad, or stuffed into warm pita. No heavy sauces, no complicated steps—just really good shrimp done right. Bonus: they cook in minutes, so there’s more time to relax.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki Sauce with pita dipped in a black bowl.
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Cool, creamy, and packed with fresh flavor, Authentic Tzatziki Sauce is the kind of dip that makes everything better. Whether paired with grilled meats, fresh veggies, or just a spoon (no judgment), it’s always a good idea. The combination of fresh herbs and tangy yogurt creates a balance that’s rich but refreshing. It’s simple, classic, and exactly what’s needed when a dish needs a little something extra. Keep a batch in the fridge—it won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

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

When pasta needs to be simple but full of flavor, Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce gets the job done. The sauce is light but rich, letting the natural sweetness shine without being overpowering. It’s the kind of dish that works for a quick weeknight dinner or a slow Sunday meal. Pair it with a side or enjoy it solo—either way, it never disappoints. Fresh, flavorful, and no extra effort required.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Mediterranean Rice

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

Fluffy, fragrant, and full of flavor, Mediterranean Rice is the perfect base for any meal. The mix of seasonings gives it depth without overpowering, making it a go-to side dish that pairs with just about everything. It’s light enough not to steal the show but flavorful enough to stand on its own. Easy to make, easy to enjoy, and guaranteed to disappear fast. A simple dish that does exactly what it needs to.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

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

Light, fresh, and packed with protein, Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a smarter take on the usual. The mix of flavors keeps every bite interesting, making it great on its own, in a sandwich, or over greens. It’s proof that a simple dish can still be full of bold flavors. No heavy dressings, no unnecessary fillers—just the good stuff. Perfect for a quick meal that actually feels like one.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

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

Juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right, Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs are an easy way to bring big flavor with little effort. The bright, herby seasoning balances perfectly with the smoky char from the grill. They’re great on their own, over rice, or wrapped in pita for a meal that’s both simple and satisfying. Whether for a quick dinner or weekend grilling, they always hit the spot. Minimal work, maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Greek Lemon Potatoes

Round black dish filled with seasoned roasted potato wedges, placed on a white wooden surface alongside a white and yellow striped cloth napkin.
Greek Lemon Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor, Greek Lemon Potatoes take a simple side and turn it into something special. The bright, tangy seasoning balances perfectly with the rich, golden texture. They pair well with just about anything but are good enough to steal the show on their own. Whether fresh out of the oven or sneaked cold from the fridge, they’re impossible to resist. One batch is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Greek Salad

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

Nothing fancy, just fresh, crisp, and balanced flavors in every bite. Greek Salad keeps things classic with the perfect mix of textures and just the right amount of seasoning. It’s light enough for a side but satisfying enough to stand alone. No complicated ingredients, no unnecessary extras—just really good salad done right. When in doubt, this is always the right choice.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad

Crab Spanakopita

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

Buttery, crispy, and packed with flavor, Crab Spanakopita takes a classic and gives it a rich twist. The flaky layers contrast perfectly with the creamy filling, making every bite worth savoring. It’s the kind of dish that works for a fancy appetizer or just an excuse to eat something indulgent. Serve it warm, and don’t expect leftovers. Simple ingredients, big payoff.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

Kefta Beef Kabobs

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

Bold, juicy, and packed with spice, Kefta Beef Kabobs are the kind of meal that’s simple but never boring. The combination of herbs and seasonings gives them a depth of flavor that works perfectly on its own or with a simple side. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked inside, they bring that smoky, charred goodness that makes every bite better. No complicated prep, just really good food that tastes like it took more effort than it did. Perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pasta night just got an upgrade with Greek Spaghetti. The mix of flavors brings something different to the table, making it feel special without being complicated. It’s light but satisfying, perfect for when a meal needs to be quick but still full of personality. Serve it on its own or alongside something heartier—it works either way. Easy to make, impossible to forget.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Shirazi Salad

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

Light, fresh, and full of crunch, Shirazi Salad is all about simple ingredients coming together perfectly. The balance of flavors makes it a refreshing side or a great snack on its own. It’s crisp, bright, and pairs well with just about anything. A few bites, and suddenly, the whole bowl is gone. That’s just how it goes.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

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