Category: Mediterranean

Crispy Baked Falafel with Tahini Sauce

Crispy baked falafel is a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired dish that’s packed with flavor and plant-based protein. These baked chickpea patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them perfect for salads, wraps, or as a standalone snack. Served with a creamy tahini sauce, it’s a delicious, diet-friendly meal.


Ingredients

  • 2 cups canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Olive oil spray

For the Tahini Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tbsp water (to thin)
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray lightly with olive oil.
  2. Make the falafel mixture:
    In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, cayenne, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well-blended but slightly chunky.
  3. Form the falafel:
    Shape the mixture into small patties (about 1-2 tablespoons each) and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops with olive oil.
  4. Bake the falafel:
    Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on both sides.
  5. Prepare the tahini sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and water until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  6. Serve:
    Serve the falafel with the tahini sauce and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

45 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 240mg

Additional Information:

This crispy baked falafel is a healthier alternative to traditional fried falafel. It’s rich in fiber and plant-based protein, making it ideal for those following vegan, vegetarian, or Mediterranean diets. The creamy tahini sauce adds the perfect tangy finish to this flavorful dish.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Mediterranean
  • Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free flour)

Cuisine Type:
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern

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Green Goddess Grilled Chicken Salad

Green Goddess grilled chicken salad is a fresh, herbaceous dish that combines grilled chicken with a vibrant Green Goddess dressing made from herbs, avocado, and lemon. This nutrient-packed dish is perfect for those following low-carb, keto, and Mediterranean diets, offering a healthy yet satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.


Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, romaine)
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

For the Green Goddess Dressing:

  • 1/2 avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken:
    Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Grill on medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let the chicken rest, then slice.
  2. Make the Green Goddess dressing:
    In a blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, parsley, basil, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Assemble the salad:
    On a large plate, arrange the mixed greens, cucumber, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes. Top with the sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with the Green Goddess dressing.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes


Servings:

Serves 2


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Additional Information:

This Green Goddess grilled chicken salad is rich in healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, with lean protein from the grilled chicken. The fresh herbs in the dressing give it a light and tangy flavor, making it ideal for summer grilling or light dinners.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Keto
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free
  • Mediterranean

Cuisine Type:
Salad, Mediterranean


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Harissa Grilled Shrimp

Harissa grilled shrimp is a flavorful, spicy dish that’s trending for its bold flavors and simplicity. With North African-inspired harissa paste as the key seasoning, this shrimp dish is perfect for summer grilling and fits well within low-carb, keto, and Mediterranean diets. The shrimp is marinated in a mixture of harissa, olive oil, and lemon juice before being grilled to perfection.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp harissa paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the shrimp:
    In a large bowl, mix the harissa paste, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. Preheat the grill:
    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly.
  3. Grill the shrimp:
    Skewer the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
  4. Serve:
    Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Prep Time:

10 minutes (plus 15 minutes marinating)

Cook Time:

6 minutes

Total Time:

31 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Protein: 24g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 750mg

Additional Information:

Harissa grilled shrimp offers a spicy, smoky flavor that’s balanced by the freshness of lemon juice and parsley. It’s a perfect fit for anyone looking for a quick and easy grilling option. The dish is low in carbs, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets while packing in protein from the shrimp.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Keto
  • Low-Carb
  • Mediterranean
  • Gluten-Free

Cuisine Type:
Grilling, North African-Inspired


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Smoky Roasted Red Pepper Dip

Smoky roasted red pepper dip is trending right now as a healthy, plant-based snack or appetizer. Made with roasted red peppers, smoked paprika, and almonds, this dip is creamy and full of rich flavors, making it a great addition to veggie platters or sandwiches. It’s perfect for Mediterranean diets or for those looking for gluten-free and low-carb options.


Ingredients

  • 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and peeled
  • 1/2 cup blanched almonds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Roast the peppers:
    Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the red peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred. Once done, let them cool, peel off the skin, and remove the seeds.
  2. Blend the ingredients:
    In a food processor, combine the roasted peppers, almonds, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Serve:
    Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with vegetable sticks or pita chips.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes


Servings:

Serves 6


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 150mg

Additional Information:

This smoky roasted red pepper dip is rich in flavor while remaining light and nutritious. Roasting the peppers adds a depth of flavor that pairs well with the almonds and smoked paprika, creating a perfect balance of smoky and sweet.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Mediterranean
  • Gluten-Free
  • Low-Carb

Cuisine Type:
Mediterranean, Vegan


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Grilled Portobello Mushroom Steaks

Grilled portobello mushroom steaks are trending as a flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional meat steaks. These meaty mushrooms are marinated in a savory blend of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection. This dish is ideal for a light meal or a summer BBQ, fitting a variety of popular diet trends.


Ingredients

  • 4 large portobello mushrooms, cleaned and stems removed
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade:
    In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the mushrooms:
    Place the portobello mushrooms in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Let the mushrooms marinate for at least 30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Preheat the grill:
    Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
  4. Grill the mushrooms:
    Place the mushrooms on the grill, gill-side down, and cook for 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until tender and charred.
  5. Serve:
    Remove from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Prep Time:

10 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)

Cook Time:

10-12 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 320mg

Additional Information:

Grilled portobello mushroom steaks are a delicious, low-carb, and plant-based alternative to traditional steaks. With their rich umami flavor and hearty texture, these mushrooms are perfect for grilling and fit seamlessly into vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Mediterranean
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free

Cuisine Type:
Grilling, Vegan


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Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are a light, flavorful option perfect for those following keto, paleo, or Mediterranean diets. Marinated in fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon juice, these skewers bring a burst of flavor while keeping it healthy and satisfying. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or weekend grilling.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade:
    In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
  2. Assemble the skewers:
    Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
  3. Grill the chicken:
    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has grill marks.
  4. Serve:
    Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added flavor. Serve hot.

Prep Time:

10 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)

Cook Time:

12 minutes

Total Time:

52 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 1g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 0g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Additional Information:

These grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are perfect for anyone following a healthy eating plan, offering a great source of lean protein. They’re low in carbs and packed with fresh herbs and zesty lemon flavor, making them a go-to for summer grilling.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Keto
  • Paleo
  • Low-Carb
  • Mediterranean
  • Gluten-Free

Cuisine Type:
Grilling, Mediterranean

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Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs

Grilled lemon herb chicken thighs are a flavorful and healthy option for those looking to enjoy a protein-packed meal with minimal prep. Marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs, these chicken thighs are juicy and tender, with a smoky char from the grill. Perfect for summer grilling or any time you want a quick, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

  • 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade:
    In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken:
    Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
  3. Preheat the grill:
    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates.
  4. Grill the chicken:
    Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off the excess. Grill the chicken, skin side down, for 6-8 minutes. Flip and grill for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  5. Serve:
    Serve the grilled chicken with lemon wedges and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Prep Time:

10 minutes (plus marinating time)

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes (plus marinating time)


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 450mg

Additional Information:

These grilled lemon herb chicken thighs are juicy and infused with fresh herbs and lemon, creating a vibrant and tangy flavor. Ideal for grilling season, the smoky char from the grill enhances the natural flavors of the marinade.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Keto
  • Paleo
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free
  • Mediterranean

Cuisine Type:
Grilling, Mediterranean


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Turmeric Quinoa Salad with Chickpeas

Turmeric quinoa salad with chickpeas is a vibrant and healthy dish, packed with plant-based protein and anti-inflammatory properties. The earthy turmeric adds a warm flavor to fluffy quinoa, while fresh vegetables and a lemony dressing give it a bright, refreshing taste. This dish is ideal for a light lunch or side dish.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Add slivered almonds to garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the quinoa:
    In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the quinoa and turmeric, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until quinoa is fluffy. Let cool.
  2. Mix the salad:
    In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley. Add the cooked quinoa.
  3. Make the dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss well.
  4. Serve:
    Serve chilled or at room temperature. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 240mg

Additional Information:

Turmeric quinoa salad is a refreshing and nutrient-dense dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a healthy side. The turmeric not only provides a vibrant color but also adds health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties. The chickpeas and quinoa make this dish high in protein and fiber.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Gluten-Free
  • Mediterranean
  • Low-Carb

Cuisine Type:
Salad, Mediterranean


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Spicy Honey Garlic Salmon

Spicy honey garlic salmon combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, creating a dish that is both satisfying and quick to prepare. The salmon is pan-seared and then glazed with a spicy honey garlic sauce, giving it a rich caramelization and bold taste. This meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but elegant enough for entertaining.


Ingredients

  • 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each, skinless or skin-on)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp sriracha (or hot sauce of choice)
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the salmon:
    Pat the salmon fillets dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Make the honey garlic sauce:
    In a small bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, sriracha, soy sauce, lemon juice, and grated ginger. Set aside.
  3. Sear the salmon:
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the salmon fillets, skin-side down (if using skin-on), and cook for 4-5 minutes, until crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the salmon is just cooked through.
  4. Add the sauce:
    Pour the honey garlic sauce over the salmon and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 2-3 more minutes, basting the salmon with the sauce as it thickens and caramelizes.
  5. Serve:
    Remove the salmon from the heat and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

25 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 34g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 650mg

Additional Information:

Spicy honey garlic salmon offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy, with the honey creating a beautiful caramelized glaze over the tender fish. This dish is inspired by a combination of Asian and Western flavors and is ideal for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful seafood option.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Gluten-Free (if using tamari)
  • Mediterranean
  • Low-Carb
  • Paleo

Cuisine Type:
Seafood, Asian-Inspired


Notes:

  • Optional sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad.
  • Adjust heat level: Add more or less sriracha based on your desired spice level.

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Creamy Tahini Chickpea Salad

Creamy tahini chickpea salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish made with protein-packed chickpeas, crisp vegetables, and a rich, nutty tahini dressing. This versatile salad can be enjoyed as a light main dish or a side, perfect for those seeking a healthy, Mediterranean-inspired meal. With minimal prep and no cooking required, it’s a convenient and delicious option for busy weeknights or a quick lunch


Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

For the Tahini Dressing:

  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 2 tbsp water (to thin the dressing)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables and chickpeas:
    In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpeas, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped parsley.
  2. Make the tahini dressing:
    In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and water. Add more water if needed to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Toss the salad:
    Pour the tahini dressing over the chickpea and vegetable mixture. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Garnish and serve:
    Garnish with sesame seeds and additional parsley if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

N/A

Total Time:

10 minutes


Servings:

Serves 4


Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 260 kcal
  • Protein: 8g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Additional Information:

This creamy tahini chickpea salad is inspired by Mediterranean flavors, making it a refreshing, nutrient-packed option for a healthy meal. The combination of creamy tahini, bright lemon, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that can be served as a light main or side dish.

Diets:
This dish fits into the following dietary lifestyles:

  • Vegan
  • Vegetarian
  • Mediterranean
  • Gluten-Free
  • Dairy-Free
  • Low-Carb

Cuisine Type:
Mediterranean, Salad


Notes:

  • Serving suggestions: This salad can be served on its own, as a filling for pita bread, or alongside grilled vegetables or falafel for a heartier meal.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir the salad before serving to redistribute the dressing.

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