As the days grow longer and warmer, there’s no better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing plate of Mediterranean-inspired goodness. The region’s cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and simplicity, making it perfect for easy entertaining during the dog days of summer. From classic Greek salads to grilled vegetable skewers and tangy dips, these 20 recipes will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, these dishes are sure to impress your guests with their bright flavors and beautiful presentation. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and using ingredients that are readily available in most supermarkets.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the Mediterranean, sharing 20 mouthwatering recipes that will keep you cool, calm, and collected all summer long.
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives
Greek Salad with Feta and Olives Recipe
This classic Greek salad recipe combines the tanginess of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and the freshness of tomatoes for a flavorful and healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Skewers
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this colorful and nutritious vegetarian skewer recipe. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and a hint of lemon create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables, olives, and parsley onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Orzo
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Orzo: A Bright and Flavorful Dish Perfect for Weeknight Dinners or Special Occasions
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces orzo pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
5. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low and add lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Add cooked orzo to the skillet and toss with the lemon garlic sauce.
7. Serve orzo topped with shrimp, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Avocados
Caprese Stuffed Avocados: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Combination
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of avocados with the vibrant flavors of Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. Perfect for a light and refreshing snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. Divide each avocado half into three sections, creating a “pocket” for filling.
3. In each pocket, place 1-2 slices of mozzarella cheese, followed by a few cherry tomato halves.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the tomatoes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Simply assemble and serve.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
A flavorful and healthy salad that combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the bright, citrusy flavor of Mediterranean herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chickpeas, red onion, parsley, and oregano.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chickpea mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep work.
Tomato and Cucumber Tzatziki Bowls
A refreshing twist on the classic Greek dip, these Tomato and Cucumber Tzatziki Bowls are perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and grated
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– Crusty bread or pita chips for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cucumber, diced tomatoes, Greek yogurt, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
2. Chill the tzatziki mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Divide the mixed greens among bowls or glasses.
4. Top each bowl with a dollop of tzatziki sauce (about 1/4 cup).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Grilled Lamb Chops
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional grilled lamb chops, this recipe combines the richness of lamb with the brightness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill lamb chops for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Red Pepper Hummus!
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Optional: paprika, parsley, or other garnishes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the red bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly.
4. Peel the peppers, removing seeds and membranes, then place them in a blender or food processor with the chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, olive oil, and water.
5. Blend on high speed until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with paprika, parsley, or other herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Eggplant Ratatouille
This flavorful ratatouille recipe showcases the best of summer’s bounty, combining tender zucchini and eggplant with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect as a side dish or used as a topping for grilled meats or bread.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss zucchini and eggplant with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic, onion, and thyme; cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add roasted zucchini and eggplant to the skillet; stir to combine with the onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Garlicky White Bean Dip with Pita
Garlicky White Bean Dip with Pita: A flavorful and creamy dip perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Flatbread
A sweet and savory flatbread that combines the natural sweetness of fresh figs with the tanginess of goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package flatbread (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 ripe fresh fig, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the flatbread on a baking sheet.
3. Top the flatbread with sliced figs, crumbled goat cheese, and a drizzle of honey.
4. Sprinkle salt to taste.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the figs are caramelized.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Watermelon Feta Mint Salad
This sweet and savory salad combines the natural sweetness of watermelon with the tanginess of feta cheese, all tied together with a burst of freshness from mint. Perfect for hot summer days!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the salad, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Grilled Halloumi with Honey Drizzle
Grilled Halloumi with Honey Drizzle Recipe
Summary: Sweet and savory, this grilled halloumi recipe is perfect for a quick and easy summer meal or as an appetizer. The crispy exterior and creamy interior of the cheese pair perfectly with the drizzle of warm honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of halloumi cheese (about 8 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the halloumi into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the halloumi slices with the olive oil mixture.
5. Grill the halloumi for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it develops a nice golden brown crust.
6. While the cheese is still warm, drizzle with honey and serve.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken dinner with a flavorful twist! This Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken recipe is an easy and impressive main course perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce
A delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines crispy baked falafel with a creamy and tangy tahini sauce, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup tahini paste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mash chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add flour, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Gradually add water until dough forms.
5. Shape into balls and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Meanwhile, whisk together tahini paste, lemon juice, and parsley in a bowl.
7. Serve falafel with tahini sauce drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Salad
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tanginess of feta cheese and a hint of basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie or penne)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tbsp. red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Pour dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Salmon
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful and refreshing lemon herb grilled salmon recipe. With a zesty citrus twist and aromatic herbs, this dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, dill, and garlic.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and brush with the lemon herb mixture.
4. Cook for 4-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Stuffed Grape Leaves (Dolmas)
A classic Middle Eastern dish, Dolmas are tender grape leaves wrapped around a savory filling of rice, herbs, and spices. This recipe yields 20-25 dolmas.
Ingredients:
– 20-25 fresh grape leaves
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon juice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Blanch grape leaves for 30 seconds to remove bitterness.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with parsley, dill, scallions, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Lay a blanched grape leaf flat on a surface. Place 1-2 tablespoons of filling in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the stem end over the filling, then fold in both sides and roll into a neat package.
6. Repeat with remaining grape leaves and filling.
7. Serve dolmas warm or at room temperature, drizzled with lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes blanching time)
Mediterranean Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
Transform bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Mediterranean-inspired quinoa stuffed pepper recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, combine quinoa, olives, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cold Cucumber Yogurt Soup
Beat the heat with this refreshing soup that’s perfect for a light and healthy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and diced
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the cucumber until smooth.
2. Add the yogurt, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold, garnished with additional dill if desired.
6. If desired, add ice cubes to chill further.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (mostly chilling time)
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing summer Mediterranean recipes perfect for easy entertaining! From classic Greek Salad with Feta and Olives to innovative dishes like Caprese Stuffed Avocados and Grilled Mediterranean Vegetable Skewers, there’s something for everyone. Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Orzo, Herbed Grilled Lamb Chops, and Roasted Red Pepper Hummus. And don’t forget sweet treats like Fresh Fig and Goat Cheese Flatbread and Watermelon Feta Mint Salad. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be ready to host a stress-free summer soiree in no time!
Leave a Reply