Mediterranean cooking doesn’t need fancy tricks, just the right balance of flavors, a little patience, and maybe a good story while you wait. These 29 recipes bring home the kind of meals that have been perfected for generations—slow-cooked classics, quick and hearty staples, and everything in between. Some dishes take their time, others come together fast, but all of them deliver on taste. And if you’re wondering whether nonna would approve, just know she probably already has an opinion—whether you asked for it or not.
Mediterranean Cod
Fish should be cooked with confidence, and Mediterranean Cod makes it easy. This dish keeps things simple, letting fresh ingredients and bold seasoning do all the work. The result is a tender, flaky bite that pairs perfectly with just about anything on the table. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or part of a big spread, this one delivers without making a fuss about it.
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Classic Pork Souvlaki
There’s a reason skewers are a staple in Mediterranean cooking—they deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Classic Pork Souvlaki brings together time-honored flavors, the perfect balance of seasonings, and that unmistakable char. Whether it’s stuffed in warm pita or enjoyed straight off the skewer, this dish proves that sometimes the simplest recipes hit the hardest. Just don’t forget the sauce, or you’ll hear about it from someone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Classic Pork Souvlaki
Mediterranean Chicken Bake
A good bake should do two things: fill the kitchen with an unmistakable aroma and come out of the oven ready to steal the show. Mediterranean Chicken Bake checks both boxes, layering classic flavors that build as it bakes. The combination of bold seasonings and simple ingredients gives it a depth that feels like it took all day, even if it didn’t. It’s the kind of dish that doesn’t need a special occasion but somehow makes any meal feel like one.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chicken Bake
Horiatiki Salad
No lettuce, no nonsense—just a bowl of fresh, crisp ingredients that let each bite do the talking. Horiatiki Salad sticks to the essentials, combining bold flavors with a satisfying crunch. It’s the kind of dish that works on its own but also plays well with whatever else is on the table. Simple, traditional, and proof that the best salads don’t need a long ingredient list.
Get the Recipe: Horiatiki Salad
Grilled Feta
Cheese deserves to be the main event sometimes, and Grilled Feta makes a strong case for it. The heat transforms it into a warm, rich bite that holds onto its shape while picking up smoky, caramelized edges. Served with a drizzle of something bright or a side of crusty bread, it’s a dish that knows how to stand out. Easy to make, impossible to resist.
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Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Some salads are side dishes, but Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp holds its own as a full meal. The combination of tender shrimp, hearty orzo, and bright, fresh ingredients makes every bite balanced and satisfying. It’s light enough for warm weather but filling enough to leave no one asking, “What’s next?” Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd, and even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Mediterranean Salmon
When salmon is cooked right, it barely needs anything to shine, but Mediterranean Salmon takes it up a notch. This dish balances bold flavors with the rich texture of perfectly cooked fish. It’s just as good served with fresh sides as it is standing alone as the star of the plate. One bite, and it’s clear why this style of cooking has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Salmon
Pesto Orzo Salad
Orzo isn’t quite rice, isn’t quite pasta, but it knows how to hold onto flavor. Pesto Orzo Salad brings together fresh ingredients with a punchy, herb-packed dressing that coats every bite. It’s light but satisfying, making it perfect for pairing with anything from grilled meats to simple greens. The best part? It only gets better the longer it sits, so don’t be afraid of leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
Some sandwiches are messy in the best way possible, and Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches are no exception. Juicy, well-seasoned meatballs are tucked into warm pita, packed with fresh toppings, and finished with a sauce that ties it all together. Every bite delivers a mix of textures and bold flavors that make this a standout. It’s the kind of meal that disappears fast, so maybe make extra.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatball Pita Sandwiches
Greek Meatballs
There’s something about a well-seasoned meatball that makes any meal better, and Greek Meatballs deliver. Packed with flavor, these bite-sized classics work in everything from sandwiches to salads or straight off the plate. They hold up on their own, but a good sauce makes them even better. Just make sure to make extra—these never last long.
Get the Recipe: Greek Meatballs
Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans
Vegetables aren’t always the star, but Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans make a strong case for them. Slow-cooked with bold seasonings, these beans soak up every bit of flavor, turning a simple side into something special. They’re rich, comforting, and pair well with just about anything on the table. Even the biggest skeptics might rethink their stance on green beans after this one.
Get the Recipe: Fasolakia Lathera – Greek Green Beans
Mediterranean Chopped Salad
Big, bold, and packed with crunch, Mediterranean Chopped Salad proves that fresh ingredients don’t need much to shine. Every bite delivers a mix of textures and flavors that keep things interesting without being complicated. It’s a go-to side for grilled meats or a quick, satisfying meal all on its own. One bowl, and suddenly, basic salads just don’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Chopped Salad
Baked Feta Pasta
Some dishes become instant classics for a reason, and Baked Feta Pasta is proof. The heat works its magic on the cheese, melting it into a rich, creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta. Simple ingredients come together to create something that feels way fancier than it actually is. No wonder this one took over the internet—it delivers every single time.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
A good marinade can work wonders, and Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp proves it. The bold seasonings soak in just enough to bring out the shrimp’s natural sweetness while adding a little extra punch. The quick cook time means this dish is on the table fast, but the flavor sticks around. Serve it with fresh sides, over rice, or straight from the skewer—just be ready for them to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Grilled Shrimp
Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
A good sauce can make or break a meal, and Authentic Tzatziki Sauce never lets you down. Cool, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, it’s the perfect finishing touch for everything from grilled meats to fresh veggies. It’s the kind of dip that somehow makes everything taste better, no matter what it’s paired with. Just be prepared—once it’s on the table, it won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Tzatziki Sauce
Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Fresh herbs, bright flavors, and a hint of smokiness make Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes stand out. The combination of crisp textures and deep, roasted notes gives it a complexity that keeps every bite interesting. It’s refreshing yet hearty, making it a great addition to big spreads or a solid meal on its own. One bowl, and suddenly, regular tabouli feels like it’s missing something.
Get the Recipe: Tabouli Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops
Cooking lamb right is an art, and Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops get it just right. The perfect blend of seasoning and high-heat grilling locks in deep, rich flavor with a tender bite. Whether served with fresh salads or a pile of roasted veggies, these chops hold their own on any plate. Just be ready for everyone to ask when you’re making them again.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Chops
Cucumber Salad with Feta
Crisp, cool, and full of contrast, Cucumber Salad with Feta brings together fresh crunch and creamy bites in every forkful. The mix of bold seasonings and simple ingredients makes this salad as versatile as it is satisfying. Serve it alongside grilled meats, as a refreshing side, or straight out of the bowl when no one’s looking. However it’s eaten, it’s one of those dishes that disappears fast.
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Pastitsio
If comfort food had a Mediterranean king, Pastitsio would be wearing the crown. Layers of rich, spiced meat, creamy sauce, and hearty pasta make this dish a standout. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, filling the kitchen with a smell that makes waiting nearly impossible. One slice, and suddenly, you understand why it’s been a family favorite for generations.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Simple ingredients come together fast in Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce, making it a go-to for busy nights. The burst of fresh tomatoes in every bite keeps things light yet satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that proves homemade always beats store-bought. Once you try it, jarred sauce just won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Greek Lemon Potatoes
A good potato dish should be crispy, flavorful, and impossible to stop eating—Greek Lemon Potatoes check every box. The balance of bright citrus and deep, roasted flavor makes them stand out from the usual sides. Whether piled next to grilled meats or eaten straight from the pan, they always deliver. Just don’t expect leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Greek Lemon Potatoes
Greek Salad
Some salads are just there for show, but Greek Salad brings real substance. Crisp, fresh ingredients come together with bold flavors that don’t need any extras to shine. It’s light, satisfying, and works with just about anything. A true classic that proves simple is often best.
Get the Recipe: Greek Salad
Crab Spanakopita
Flaky, crisp, and packed with flavor, Crab Spanakopita takes a classic dish and gives it an extra kick. The delicate balance of rich seafood and fresh greens tucked into layers of golden pastry makes every bite worth savoring. It works as a snack, a side, or the main event—either way, it won’t last long. If you weren’t a fan of spanakopita before, this version might change your mind.
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Kefta Beef Kabobs
Skewers are the easiest way to get bold flavor in every bite, and Kefta Beef Kabobs don’t hold back. The perfectly seasoned meat grills up juicy, with just enough char to add depth. Whether served with fresh salads, warm pita, or straight off the skewer, they always deliver. Just be prepared—these tend to disappear faster than they hit the plate.
Get the Recipe: Kefta Beef Kabobs
Mediterranean Rice
A good rice dish does more than just sit on the side, and Mediterranean Rice proves it. Every grain is packed with flavor, making it the perfect match for just about anything. Light yet satisfying, it holds its own next to hearty mains or works as a quick meal on its own. However it’s served, this dish turns a simple staple into something special.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice
Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Fresh, bold, and anything but boring, Mediterranean Tuna Salad puts a new spin on a classic. The combination of simple ingredients and bright flavors makes it just as good for meal prep as it is for a quick lunch. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but light enough to keep things fresh. One bite, and suddenly, regular tuna salad feels like it’s missing something.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs
A good marinade can change everything, and Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs are proof. The balance of bright citrus and bold seasoning locks in deep flavor while keeping the chicken juicy. Grilled to perfection, they work with everything from fresh salads to hearty sides. If there’s one dish that never has leftovers, it’s this one.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Oregano Chicken Kabobs
Greek Spaghetti
Pasta meets bold Mediterranean flavors in Greek Spaghetti, turning a simple dish into something special. The mix of fresh ingredients and deep seasoning makes every bite stand out. It’s quick enough for weeknights but satisfying enough to feel like a treat. One bowl, and suddenly, plain spaghetti just won’t do anymore.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti
Shirazi Salad
Fresh, crisp, and full of contrast, Shirazi Salad proves that a few ingredients can go a long way. The balance of bright flavors and just the right amount of crunch makes it a refreshing side for any meal. It’s simple, traditional, and pairs well with everything from grilled meats to warm bread. One bite, and it’s clear why this salad has stood the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Shirazi Salad