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29 Mediterranean Meals That Make You Feel Like You Should Be Eating Them Under a Bougainvillea

The Mediterranean knows how to do food right, and these 29 meals are all the proof needed. There’s a reason people keep coming back to these dishes—they’re balanced, flavorful, and don’t require a degree in culinary arts to make. These meals bring big flavors without the fuss. If food could be a vacation, this would be it—minus the overpriced souvenirs.

Mediterranean Rice in a black bowl on concrete.
Mediterranean Rice. 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.

There’s something about oven-baked meals that make dinnertime easy, and Mediterranean Chicken Bake is no exception. It’s packed with flavors that come together effortlessly, making it a go-to for a satisfying meal. The ingredients do all the work, creating a dish that feels hearty without being heavy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal for guests, this one holds up every time.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Shirazi Salad

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

Fresh, crisp, and packed with bright flavors, Shirazi Salad is a go-to for when something light is needed. The combination of simple ingredients creates a refreshing dish that pairs well with just about anything. It’s quick to throw together but still feels like a complete dish on its own. The flavors only get better as they sit, making it great for meal prep. Serve it chilled, and it’s an instant favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad

Mediterranean Cod

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

Light but packed with flavor, Mediterranean Cod is the kind of dish that makes seafood feel effortless. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple seasonings lets the fish stand out without needing anything complicated. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it delivers the kind of taste that works for any occasion. Perfect for those who want a meal that feels fresh but still satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Cod

Greek Meatballs

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

Whether eaten on their own, tucked into bread, or paired with a side, Greek Meatballs are always a good choice. They’re packed with bold flavors that make every bite worth it. The mix of ingredients creates a balance of textures, making them satisfying without being too heavy. Perfect for meal prep, parties, or a quick dinner, they work in just about any situation. Serve them with something fresh on the side, and they’re even better.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs

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.

Packed with fresh flavors and a mix of textures, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp delivers big on taste without a lot of effort. The combination of ingredients keeps things balanced, making it light but satisfying. Perfect for lunches, dinners, or even meal prep, since it holds up well. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to throw together and always feels like a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

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

There’s something about grilled food that makes a meal feel special, and Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs bring that feeling every time. The flavors work together to create a dish that’s bold, fresh, and just the right amount of smoky. They’re easy to prepare, quick to cook, and perfect for serving with a simple side. Whether for a weeknight meal or a backyard gathering, they never disappoint. Eat them straight off the skewer or with a plate of fresh sides—either way, they’re a hit.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs

Horiatiki Salad

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

A no-fuss dish that sticks to the basics, Horiatiki Salad proves that simple ingredients can still deliver big flavor. Every bite has a mix of crisp, juicy, and briny elements that work together perfectly. There’s no lettuce involved, just fresh, bold flavors that hold up on their own. Whether eaten as a side or a meal, it’s one of those salads that never feels like an afterthought. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and works with just about anything.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad

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.

Fresh, light, and packed with bold flavors, Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings something extra to the table. The mix of crisp textures and smoky depth makes every bite stand out. It works as a side or a meal on its own, depending on the occasion. Whether eaten fresh or left to sit for a bit to let the flavors blend, it’s always a solid choice. No complicated steps—just a great dish that delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

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

Wrapped in warm bread and packed with flavor, Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are the kind of meal that never disappoints. The combination of bold ingredients and fresh toppings makes every bite balanced and satisfying. Whether eaten on the go or at a relaxed dinner, they bring a mix of textures and flavors that just work. A little messy, a lot delicious, and definitely worth making.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches

Cucumber Salad with Feta

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

Some salads are side dishes, but Cucumber Salad with Feta holds its own. Crisp, refreshing, and packed with flavor, it brings a perfect balance of textures to the table. It works as a light meal or a side that pairs well with just about anything. The mix of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a go-to for warm days or when something easy is needed. No complicated steps, just a solid, satisfying dish.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber Salad with Feta

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 turns a simple ingredient into something next-level. The heat transforms the texture, making it perfect for spreading, dipping, or eating straight off the plate. Whether paired with fresh bread, crisp vegetables, or eaten on its own, it delivers big on flavor. It’s an easy appetizer or a great addition to any meal. Serve it straight from the grill, and it’s gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Feta

Greek Salad

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

A classic for a reason, Greek Salad delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Crisp textures, fresh ingredients, and bold seasonings make every bite refreshing and satisfying. It works as a side or a light meal on its own, depending on the appetite. The mix of flavors makes it a go-to for warm weather or when something quick and easy is needed. No complicated steps—just a solid, well-balanced salad that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad

Pesto Orzo Salad

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

Light, fresh, and full of flavor, Pesto Orzo Salad is a dish that works for any occasion. The combination of simple ingredients and bold seasoning makes it stand out without being heavy. Whether served as a main course, a side, or part of a larger spread, it always fits in. It’s great for meal prep, since the flavors only get better with time. Serve it chilled or at room temperature, and it’s good to go.
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.

Bold, smoky, and packed with flavor, Kefta Beef Kabobs bring serious taste without any fuss. The combination of spices and grilling creates a perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy bites. Whether wrapped in warm bread, served with rice, or eaten straight off the skewer, they never disappoint. They’re easy to make in big batches, making them great for gatherings or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

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

A sauce that does more than just sit on the side, Authentic Tzatziki Sauce brings fresh, bold flavors to any meal. It’s creamy, tangy, and packed with just the right balance of ingredients to keep things refreshing. Whether paired with grilled meats, used as a dip, or spread on a sandwich, it instantly upgrades whatever it touches. A little goes a long way, but it’s hard to stop at just a little. Keep extra on hand—it disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Baked Feta Pasta

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

When pasta meets bold flavors, the result is something worth repeating, and Baked Feta Pasta proves it. The ingredients melt together to create a dish that’s rich but not overwhelming. It’s easy enough for a quick dinner but good enough to serve to guests. The balance of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors makes every bite worth it. Serve it as is or with something extra on the side—either way, it’s a win.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta

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 best meals are the simplest, and Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce proves it. The combination of fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that works for a quick weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for guests. With a sauce that comes together effortlessly, it delivers bold flavors without the need for anything fancy.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

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

Big flavors meet simple preparation in Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp, a dish that’s as quick as it is satisfying. The combination of seasonings and heat brings out a bold taste without overpowering the shrimp. Perfect for a main course or an addition to salads, wraps, or bowls, it’s a versatile meal that works in any setting. Whether grilled indoors or outside, it delivers that smoky, fresh taste that makes seafood shine.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp

Fasolakia Lathera

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

Proof that vegetables can steal the show, Fasolakia Lathera is the kind of dish that makes eating greens easy. Slow-cooked flavors bring out the best in simple ingredients, creating a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a side or a main dish, it holds up every time. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a staple in Mediterranean cooking.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera

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.

When it comes to bold, smoky flavors, Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops don’t hold back. The combination of simple seasonings and fire brings out the best in the meat, creating a dish that’s rich and full of character. Perfect for a special occasion or just a dinner that feels like one, they’re easy to pair with a variety of sides. Whether cooked over an open flame or on a stovetop grill, they deliver big every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops

Pastitsio

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

Comfort food at its finest, Pastitsio brings layers of bold flavors and satisfying textures. A rich, hearty dish that’s just as good the next day, it’s a staple for a reason. The combination of pasta, sauce, and perfectly seasoned filling makes every bite worth it. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated for leftovers, it holds up every time. One slice is never enough, so plan accordingly.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio

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 bold flavors, Mediterranean Tuna Salad is more than just another salad. The combination of ingredients gives it a satisfying texture while keeping things balanced. Whether eaten on its own, stuffed into a sandwich, or served with crisp greens, it works in any situation. It’s perfect for meal prep since the flavors only get better over time. A quick, easy dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad

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, tender on the inside, Greek Lemon Potatoes are the kind of side dish that steals the show. The balance of bold flavors and perfect texture makes them hard to resist. They pair well with just about anything, but they’re good enough to eat straight off the pan. Simple ingredients do all the work, creating a dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Make extra—there won’t be leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes

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.

Fresh, crisp, and packed with flavor, Mediterranean Chopped Salad is the kind of dish that makes eating vegetables easy. The mix of textures and bold seasonings keeps every bite interesting. It works as a side, a main dish, or even a filling for wraps and sandwiches. The best part? It only gets better as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch, and it’ll be gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Crab Spanakopita

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

A twist on a classic, Crab Spanakopita takes flaky layers and packs them with bold, savory flavors. The combination of rich filling and crisp pastry makes every bite worth savoring. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, it’s one of those recipes that feels special without being complicated. Perfect for gatherings, since it disappears fast. Serve it warm, and watch it go.
Get the Recipe: Crab Spanakopita

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.

Simple, bold, and packed with flavor, Classic Pork Souvlaki is everything great street food should be. Juicy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned, it’s just as good straight off the skewer as it is wrapped in warm bread. It works as a quick meal, a backyard barbecue staple, or part of a bigger Mediterranean spread. No complicated ingredients, just good food that hits the spot. Pair it with a fresh dip, and it’s even better.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki

Mediterranean Salmon

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

Big flavors meet simple ingredients in Mediterranean Salmon, a dish that proves seafood doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it always delivers the right balance of crispy edges and tender bites. It works for a quick weeknight dinner but still feels special enough for guests. With flavors that hold their own, it doesn’t need much to be a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon

Greek Spaghetti

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

A fresh take on a classic, Greek Spaghetti brings bold flavors to a simple pasta dish. The combination of fresh ingredients and Mediterranean seasonings makes it light but satisfying. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but packed with enough flavor to feel special. Whether served as a main course or a side, it works every time. One bowl is never enough, so go for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Mediterranean Rice

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

More than just a side, Mediterranean Rice brings enough flavor to stand on its own. The combination of bold seasonings and simple ingredients makes every bite satisfying. It pairs well with just about any protein or vegetable, making it one of those dishes that works in any meal. Light yet filling, it’s a great base for bowls, wraps, or a plate full of Mediterranean flavors.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

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