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29 Hearty Mediterranean Recipes That Taste Like a Long Lunch by the Sea

A good Mediterranean meal isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. These 29 recipes cover the kind of dishes that make lunch stretch into dinner, with flavors that keep you coming back for just one more bite. Some are light, some are rich, but all of them bring the kind of balance that makes Mediterranean cooking so good. Whether it’s grilled, slow-simmered, or piled onto fresh bread, there’s no wrong way to dig in.

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.

No extra steps, no complicated prep—just Mediterranean Chicken Bake bringing big, satisfying flavors to the table. It’s the kind of dish that fills the kitchen with the kind of aromas that make everyone linger. The layers of flavor work together to create something hearty but not heavy, making it a perfect all-in-one meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend, this dish gets the job done. Serve it up and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Greek Meatballs

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

These aren’t just meatballs—they’re Greek Meatballs, bringing a perfect mix of bold flavors and tender texture. They work just as well on their own as they do wrapped in a pita or served with something fresh. Each bite is packed with Mediterranean goodness, making them a favorite at any meal. They disappear fast, so making a double batch is never a bad idea. Whether they’re the star of the plate or part of a bigger spread, they always deliver.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs

Mediterranean Cod

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

This dish brings big, bold flavors without making things complicated. Mediterranean Cod is the kind of meal that tastes like it came from a seaside taverna, with just the right balance of richness and freshness. It’s flaky, satisfying, and works just as well for a quick dinner as it does for a slow weekend lunch. Pair it with something crisp or keep it simple—either way, it delivers. You’ll want extra because one plate is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Horiatiki Salad

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

No lettuce, no filler—Horiatiki Salad is the real deal when it comes to Greek salads. Every ingredient pulls its weight, making each bite fresh, crisp, and full of flavor. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but works with just about anything else on the table. Whether it’s part of a big Mediterranean spread or a simple lunch, it always hits the mark. It’s the kind of salad that doesn’t need dressing up—it’s already got everything it needs.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

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.

If you want a meal that feels like it belongs at a long, slow lunch by the sea, Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops are the way to go. Juicy, flavorful, and cooked just right, they bring bold, satisfying flavors to the table. They’re perfect on their own, but even better with something fresh on the side. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a reason to fire up the grill, these always impress. Just make sure there’s enough for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

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

A Mediterranean spread isn’t complete without Authentic Tzatziki Sauce on the table. It’s cool, creamy, and just the right balance of rich and refreshing. Whether you’re piling it onto grilled meats, using it as a dip, or just sneaking a spoonful, it brings everything together. It’s simple, but the kind of simple that keeps you coming back for more. If there’s any left after the meal, you’ve shown more restraint than most.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Cucumber Salad with Feta

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

Crisp, fresh, and just the right amount of creamy, Cucumber Salad with Feta brings contrast to any Mediterranean meal. It’s light enough to go with everything but still has enough flavor to hold its own. Whether it’s paired with grilled meats, piled onto bread, or eaten straight from the bowl, it just works. It’s the kind of dish that looks simple but has a way of stealing the spotlight. If you’re looking for something refreshing, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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

These are not your average sandwiches—Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches bring big, satisfying flavors wrapped up in one perfect bite. Juicy meatballs, bold seasonings, and fresh toppings come together in a way that makes every bite count. They’re easy to grab, impossible to resist, and perfect for when you need something filling but not over the top. Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack, they always hit the spot. One is never enough, so plan accordingly.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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.

The classic tabouli gets an upgrade with Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes, bringing extra depth to a dish that’s already packed with flavor. The fresh, herby base is bright and balanced, while the smoky touch adds just enough intrigue. It’s the kind of side dish that doesn’t feel like a side—it holds its own against anything on the table. Whether it’s piled onto grilled meats or eaten straight from the bowl, it’s worth making extra. You’ll need it.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Kefta Beef Kabobs

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

Kefta Beef Kabobs bring bold, Mediterranean flavors to the grill with no extra fuss. They’re juicy, well-seasoned, and just the right amount of smoky, making them impossible to resist. Whether they’re served on their own, wrapped in warm bread, or alongside something fresh, they never disappoint. These aren’t just regular kabobs—they’re packed with the kind of flavor that keeps you coming back for more. If there are leftovers, it’s only because you made too many.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

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.

If you’re looking for a dish that does it all, this one’s a solid choice. Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp brings big, satisfying flavors to a dish that’s light but filling. It’s got a mix of textures and just enough boldness to keep things interesting. Whether you’re serving it cold or warm, it works for lunch, dinner, or anything in between. It’s fresh, satisfying, and easy to pair with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Pastitsio

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

Think of Pastitsio as the Mediterranean answer to comfort food. It’s layered, baked, and packed with rich flavors that make every bite satisfying. Whether it’s served at a family gathering or just a regular weeknight, it’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table. It’s hearty without being too heavy, making it a go-to when you want something filling but balanced. Expect leftovers to disappear faster than you planned.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

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

Grilled, juicy, and packed with flavor, Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs are the kind of dish that keeps things simple but never boring. They’ve got just the right balance of tangy, smoky, and savory, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether they’re served on their own or with a side, they never disappoint. The flavors work so well together that you’ll want to make extra. Good luck saving any for later.
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.

Some tuna salads are just an afterthought, but Mediterranean Tuna Salad knows how to stand out. It’s light but satisfying, fresh but full of bold flavors, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or anything in between. Whether it’s piled onto bread, wrapped up, or eaten straight from the bowl, it never gets boring. It’s a meal that’s simple but feels like more than the sum of its parts. No dry, bland tuna here—this one’s packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

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.

Grilled, juicy, and full of bold Mediterranean flavors, Classic Pork Souvlaki is a dish that’s hard to beat. It’s simple, satisfying, and works just as well on its own as it does wrapped in warm bread. Whether it’s served with a side or just dipped into something creamy, it always hits the spot. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a long, slow lunch, even if you’re eating it on the go. Plan for extras, because these go fast.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Pesto Orzo Salad

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

Light, fresh, and packed with flavor, Pesto Orzo Salad brings everything together in one perfect bowl. It’s got the right balance of richness and freshness, making it a solid choice for any meal. Whether it’s a side or the main event, it holds its own. The flavors blend together in a way that keeps each bite interesting. If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple but full of flavor, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo 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.

Warm, creamy, and just the right amount of salty, Grilled Feta takes a simple ingredient and makes it even better. It’s got a rich, slightly smoky flavor that works as a snack, a side, or part of a bigger spread. Whether it’s paired with something crisp or scooped up with warm bread, it never disappoints. It’s proof that a few good ingredients can go a long way. If you haven’t tried grilling cheese, start here.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

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, satisfying, and packed with Mediterranean goodness. Fasolakia Lathera turns simple ingredients into something worth talking about. The flavors are rich but balanced, making it the perfect side or even a meal on its own. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but pairs well with just about anything. Whether you’re serving it warm or cold, it always works.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans

Crab Spanakopita

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

Take a classic Mediterranean favorite and add something extra, and you get Crab Spanakopita. It’s got layers of flavor, a perfect balance of richness and freshness, and enough texture to keep things interesting. Whether it’s served as an appetizer or a main event, it never lasts long on the table. It’s flaky, packed with flavor, and just the right amount of indulgence. Don’t expect any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

Mediterranean Rice

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

Some rice dishes are just a side, but Mediterranean Rice holds its own. It’s full of bold, well-balanced flavors that make it more than just a base for something else. Whether it’s paired with grilled meats, seafood, or vegetables, it works with just about anything. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a good addition to the table. If you want a rice dish that actually brings something to the meal, this is the one.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

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 are the kind of side dish that steals the show. They’ve got just the right amount of tangy, savory goodness to keep every bite interesting. Whether they’re served next to grilled meats or just eaten straight from the pan, they never disappoint. They might technically be a side, but they’re the part of the meal everyone remembers. Expect them to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

Mediterranean Salmon

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

If you’re looking for a dish that’s simple but full of bold flavors, Mediterranean Salmon is the way to go. It’s light but satisfying, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. Whether it’s paired with fresh sides or something hearty, it always works. The balance of flavors keeps each bite interesting, so there’s no chance of getting bored. This is the kind of meal that makes seafood the star.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Greek Salad

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

No extras, no unnecessary additions—Greek Salad is as classic as it gets. Every ingredient pulls its weight, making each bite fresh, crisp, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of salad that works as a side but is just as satisfying on its own. Whether it’s part of a big meal or just a light lunch, it always delivers. This is the kind of dish that proves simple and can still be packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Juicy, smoky, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp is a dish that brings big flavor with minimal effort. It’s light enough for a quick meal but satisfying enough to hold its own. Whether it’s served on skewers, tossed in a salad, or eaten straight off the grill, it always works. The balance of flavors keeps each bite interesting, making it a go-to for seafood lovers. Expect them to disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Baked Feta Pasta

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

Creamy, rich, and packed with Mediterranean flavors, Baked Feta Pasta is the kind of dish that looks fancy but comes together effortlessly. The balance of flavors makes it satisfying without being too heavy. Whether it’s served for a quick dinner or a slow weekend meal, it always works. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the best dishes. This one’s an easy win for any pasta lover.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

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.

If you like a salad that actually holds its own, this one’s a must. Mediterranean Chopped Salad is the kind of dish that brings everything together on one plate. It’s fresh, balanced, and has just the right amount of crunch to keep things interesting. Whether it’s served on its own or next to something hearty, it always delivers. It’s proof that simple ingredients can still bring big flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

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.

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the best, and Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce proves it. It’s light but packed with flavor, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime in between. The balance of fresh ingredients keeps every bite interesting. Whether it’s served on its own or paired with something hearty, it never disappoints. If you like pasta that feels fresh and full of flavor, this is the one.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Greek Spaghetti

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

Greek Spaghetti takes a classic comfort food and gives it a Mediterranean twist. It’s rich but not too heavy, with a balance of flavors that keep things interesting. Whether it’s served for a casual dinner or a big gathering, it always works. The kind of pasta dish that feels both familiar and exciting. If you’re looking for a new take on a favorite, this one’s worth trying.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Shirazi Salad

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

Some salads are just there for show, but Shirazi Salad earns its spot at the table. It’s bright, crisp, and perfectly balanced, making it an easy pick for any Mediterranean spread. Whether it’s standing on its own or next to something rich, it adds the kind of freshness that makes everything better. It’s simple but never boring, and it works in just about any meal. If you like a little crunch with every bite, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

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