10 Easy and Delicious Mediterranean Diet Recipes for Busy Weeknights
The Mediterranean Diet has been gaining immense popularity lately, thanks to its multitude of health benefits and the delicious recipes that come with it. However, sticking to a healthy diet can be challenging, especially on busy weeknights when time is limited. This article brings you some of the easiest and most delicious Mediterranean recipes that you can whip up in no time for a healthy and fulfilling dinner.
1. Greek Salad
Greek Salad is a classic Mediterranean dish that’s perfect for a quick and healthy dinner. Toss some chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and bell peppers in a bowl with some crumbled feta cheese and Kalamata olives. Drizzle some olive oil and red wine vinegar on top for dressing. You can add some grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
2. Mediterranean Pasta Salad
This refreshing Mediterranean pasta salad is perfect for hot summer nights. Cook some fusilli pasta, and toss it in a bowl with some chopped artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives. Dress the salad with some garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. You can add some grilled chicken or tuna for extra protein.
3. Shakshuka
This North African dish is a flavorful and filling recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night at home. Heat some olive oil in a pan, add some chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Add some canned tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and salt to the pan, and let it simmer for a few minutes. Make little pockets in the sauce with the back of a spoon, crack some eggs into them, cover the pan and let them cook for a few minutes until the egg whites are set.
4. Grilled Salmon with Lemon and Rosemary
Salmon is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Marinate a salmon fillet with some lemon juice, chopped rosemary, and olive oil. Grill the salmon fillet until it’s cooked to your liking, and serve it with a side of grilled asparagus or a quinoa salad.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers
Grilled chicken skewers are a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a summer barbecue. Marinate some chicken breast cubes in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs of your choice. Skewer the chicken and grill them until they’re cooked through. Serve them with a side of Greek yogurt dip and a salad.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed Bell Peppers are a healthy and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a filling dinner. Cut off the tops of some bell peppers, remove the seeds and stuff the peppers with a mixture of cooked quinoa, ground turkey, diced tomatoes, and herbs. Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover them with foil, and bake them in the oven for 30 minutes.
7. Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad is packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Mix some canned tuna, white beans, chopped red onions, and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. Dress the salad with some lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs. Serve it with a side of toasted pita bread.
8. Baked Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that’s made healthier by baking instead of frying. Slice an eggplant into rounds and dip them in some beaten eggs and seasoned breadcrumbs. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and bake them in the oven until they’re golden brown. Top the eggplant with some marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, and bake it for a few more minutes until the cheese melts.
9. Falafel
Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish that’s made from a mixture of chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Mix some canned chickpeas, chopped parsley, onions, and garlic in a food processor until it forms a dough-like consistency. Form the mixture into small balls and fry them until they’re golden brown. Serve the falafel with a side of hummus and a salad.
10. Quinoa Tabbouleh
Quinoa Tabbouleh is a healthy and delicious recipe that’s easy to make. Cook some quinoa and let it cool. Toss the quinoa in a bowl with some chopped parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and green onions. Dress the salad with some lemon juice, olive oil, and salt. You can add some grilled shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
In conclusion, these Mediterranean recipes are easy to make, healthy, and perfect for busy weeknights. They’re also great for meal prepping, so you can have a healthy lunch the next day. With these recipes, eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or time-consuming. Try them out and let us know which one is your favorite!
