This collection celebrates the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, from the first bite to the last. Start with classic appetizers like tender dolmas and silky baba ganoush, move on to showstopping mains including succulent leg of lamb and elegant salmon stuffed with spinach and feta, then finish with indulgent baklava and light, tangy yogurt cakes.
Starters and Appetizers
Lamb and Potato Dolma
Ground lamb, potatoes, dried currants and fresh oregano rolled in tender Swiss chard leaves create a modern twist on stuffed grape leaves. Make ahead and gently reheat in a large covered skillet with a few tablespoons of water in the bottom; try serving them with plain Greek yogurt for dipping and a few lemon wedges.
Muhammara Spiced Red Pepper Dip
Keep the bright colors going by serving this fiery-red roasted pepper dip with colorful slices of raw radishes, carrots, cucumbers and Romanesco cauliflower. Tip: If you can’t find pomegranate molasses, try replacing it tablespoon for tablespoon with dried pomegranate powder found near the superfoods aisle.
Baba Ganoush
Baba ganoush is a savory purée of eggplant flavored with tahini, lemon juice and fresh herbs. Eat it with wedges of whole wheat pita bread for dipping or spoon it over roasted meats and vegetables.
Eight-Layer Mediterranean Dip
This festive dip will be a hit at your next party. Layer it in a glass bowl or small trifle dish, if you like. To avoid the dip becoming watery, be sure to drain the wet ingredients well.
Baked Feta with Kale Pesto on Baguette
A little of this flavorful combo goes a long way, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Greek Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives
For an authentic taste to this classic Greek salad, also called Saláta Horiátiki, use Greek olive oil, Kalamata olives, sheep or goat's milk feta and fresh oregano.
Get the recipe: Greek Tomato Salad with Feta Cheese and Olives
Bulgur with Arugula, Pomegranate and Hazelnuts
Pomegranate seeds add beautiful color and juicy flavor to this simple grain salad balanced with peppery arugula and crunchy bits of celery.
Get the recipe: Bulgur with Arugula, Pomegranate and Hazelnuts
Gluten-Free Tabbouleh
Quinoa takes the place of traditional bulgur in this flavorful salad. It can stand alone as a vegetarian main dish, thanks to quinoa's protein content, or be served as a side dish or sandwich filling.
Labneh with Fresh Herbs and Olive Oil
Straining yogurt removes the whey, yielding a thick, creamy yogurt cheese that’s perfect for slathering on toast and pita. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds before serving. Or spread it on crostini and top with a sliver of smoked fish or prosciutto.
More Inspiring Starters:
Tzatziki Sauce opens in a new tab
Tahini Miso Sauce opens in a new tab
Mediterranean-Inspired Mains
Roasted Salmon Stuffed with Spinach, Feta and Ricotta
Salmon stuffed with spinach, creamy cheeses and fresh herbs makes for a scrumptious holiday meal and impressive presentation. For seafood lovers, this savory roast promises to be the start of a new seasonal tradition.
Get the recipe: Roasted Salmon Stuffed with Spinach, Feta and Ricotta
Farro and Herb Pilaf with Sausage, Mushrooms and Spinach
This dish will soon be a family favorite for casual suppers in the late summer and early fall. Use shiitake mushrooms in place of the cremini mushrooms, if you like.
Get the recipe: Farro and Herb Pilaf with Sausage, Mushrooms and Spinach
Slow-Cooker Vegetarian Moussaka
This delicious, comforting casserole uses bulgur wheat in place of the usual ground beef. Be sure to slice the potatoes very thinly, either with a mandoline or a very sharp knife, so that they will cook evenly in the slow cooker.
Roasted Leg of Lamb with Pomegranate-Wine Sauce
This savory roasted lamb is drizzled with a unexpected tangy pomegranate pan sauce just before serving. It's an impressive dish that's perfect for winter or spring entertaining.
Get the recipe: Roasted Leg of Lamb with Pomegranate-Wine Sauce
Lebanese-Style Ground Beef Kabobs
These aromatic grilled kabobs made with ground beef are a wonderful way to enjoy the full flavor of grass-fed beef, but any lean ground beef will be excellent.
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Salmon with Tabbouleh Salad
Tabbouleh salad is a beloved whole grain dish. As with traditional versions, this recipe uses fragrant mint and parsley to flavor the salad, which proves a great match for grilled salmon topped with fresh tomatoes and cucumbers.
Get the recipe: Citrus-Marinated Grilled Salmon with Tabbouleh Salad
Greek Yogurt with Honey-Thyme Walnuts
Thyme-infused honeyed walnuts are sprinkled over thick, creamy yogurt to make a luscious brunch side or dessert.
Baklava with Honey Syrup
Make your own irresistibly rich pastries by layering phyllo with nuts, brushing with butter and drizzling with spiced honey. A mild honey such as clover or orange blossom paired with the cinnamon and cardamom results in a flavorful syrup.
Cherry Frozen Yogurt
This simple dessert includes fresh cherries and rich (yet nonfat) Greek yogurt — and no ice cream maker is required. Prepare it in the morning and serve at a barbecue later that day.
Cinnamon-Almond Olive Oil Cake
This tender cake is the perfect all-purpose treat for the holidays. A simple dusting of powdered sugar will dress it up, or enjoy it with fresh fruit and whipped cream. We love the herbal flavor and golden color that saffron adds to the cake, but feel free to skip it too.
Simple Spiced Figs
Poaching figs in red wine, sherry vinegar, honey and cinnamon instantly makes your home smell luscious. Serve these warm or cold, alongside a green salad, on a cheese plate or diced and spooned over ice cream or pound cake.
Figgy Almond Treats
Figs and almonds are classic Greek companions, frequently used in candies and baked goods. These bite-size treats are perfect for picnics and dessert tables.
Strawberry-Lemon Olive Oil Coffee Cake
Strawberries and coffee cake go hand in hand. Lemon zest and juice bring brightness and zing, while olive oil adds richness and texture. This coffee cake is perfect for brunches, showers, parties and afternoon snacks.
Fresh Fig Galette
Sweet fresh figs meet their match with this tangy whole grain crust. A galette is a free-form tart and can be prepared ahead of time (up to several hours) and chilled until ready to bake.
Greek Yogurt Cake with Oranges and Cloves
Ground cloves add a warm, spicy note to this cake, while oranges and Greek yogurt lend a pleasing tang. Not overly sweet, the cake is just right for breakfast, afternoon tea and, of course, dessert.
