10 Easy Recipes to Celebrate the Mediterranean Diet

Do you want to try the Mediterranean diet but are unsure what it might look or taste like? Here are 10 easy Mediterranean diet recipes for every meal of the day to introduce you to the broad range of flavors and ingredients of this delicious way of eating.

Have you ever visited any of the countries around the Mediterranean Sea?  We’ve been fortunate to do a little bit of traveling to that part of the world, and next to the breathtaking scenery, the thing I enjoyed most about those vacations was the food.  

Never have I eaten so well – in terms of amazing, fresh flavor and ingredients, and good health.  The Mediterranean Diet is full of fresh fruit and vegetables, flavorful grilled fish, local cheeses, legumes, olives, nuts, herbs, and of course lots of olive oil.  Almost nothing is processed, deep-fried, or contains preservatives, and meals are a time to relax and talk and spend time with friends and family, rather than eat on the run or in your car.

The Mediterranean Diet isn’t the kind of diet with food lists and calorie counting and certain days to eat certain foods.  Instead, it’s more of a healthy eating for life plan – load up the grocery cart with anything that is fresh and seasonal.  Skip the snack food aisles entirely.  Stretch Meatless Monday into Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and maybe grill some fresh fish one or two days a week.  Snack on a platter of vegetables, fresh, local cheese, and olives instead of a handful of cookies.

Lots of studies confirm that people who eat this way have less risk of heart disease, improved blood sugar, healthier weight, and even better brain health as they age.  So, especially since May is National Mediterranean Diet Month, let’s all get on board and celebrate it!  Here are 10 recipes to help you get started:

Shakshuka with Rice and Greens

The Ultimate Mediterranean Chopped Salad

Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Peppers

Greek Chicken Orzo Salad

Italian Farrotto with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Greek-Style Chicken Tzatziki

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes

Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup

Creamy Roasted Vegetable Soup

Lemon Olive Oil Cake