Mediterranean Recipes

Tender pasta, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant tomatoes unite, drizzled with a zesty Italian vinaigrette, with basil’s subtle sweetness and garlic’s depth. A classic Caprese, reimagined. This salad is light, refreshing, and effortlessly elegant, and is perfect for warm weather gatherings!

Ingredients:
For Vinaigrette Dressing:
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar🍶
• 2–3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice🍋
• 1 clove minced garlic🧄
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt🧂
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Caprese Pasta Salad:
• ½ pound dried pasta (Farfalle or other small pasta is recommended)🍝
• 8 ounces mozzarella pearls, or cubed fresh mozzarella🧀
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, sliced in half🍅
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste🧂

Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Vinaigrette
• Combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, lemon juice, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl or jar.
• Whisk or shake until well incorporated.
• Set aside.
Step 2: Cook Pasta
• Cook pasta according to package directions.
• Drain and rinse with cold water.
Step 3: Assemble Salad
• In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, sliced tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and basil.
• Drizzle with prepared vinaigrette.
• Toss to combine.
Step 4: Season and Serve
• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
• Serve.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 10-12 minutes
• Cook Time (pasta): 8-10 minutes
• Assembly Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 23-27 minutes

Enjoy!

Savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy pastry unite. Flaky empanada wrappers encase a rich, spicy beef filling. Onions, jalapeños, and garlic add depth. Colby jack cheese brings creaminess. Baked to golden perfection, flavorful, satisfying, and irresistible, these Cheesy Beef Empanadas are perfect for gatherings, parties, or cozy nights.

Ingredients:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 🫒
• 1 small white onion (diced)🧅
• 1 jalapeño deseeded and diced (optional)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)🧄
• 1 lb ground beef🥩
• 1 teaspoon salt🧂
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon ground dried oregano
• 12-15 6-inch round empanada wrapper🥟
• 8 oz Colby jack cheese (freshly grated)🧀
• 1 egg🥚
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Baking Sheets
• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Line two baking sheets with parchment paper, silicone mat, or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook Onion and Jalapeño
• Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium heat.
• Add onion; cook until translucent.
• Add jalapeño; cook for 3 minutes.
Step 3: Cook Garlic and Beef
• Add garlic; cook until fragrant.
• Add beef, salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
• Cook, breaking up beef, until browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Drain and Cool
• Drain rendered fat.
• Set aside; cool for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Assemble Empanadas
• Spoon beef mixture onto empanada wrapper center.
• Add tablespoon of cheese.
• Fold, pinch edges, and twist into classic empanada border (or use fork to seal).
Step 6: Bake
• Place empanadas on baking sheets, leaving space.
• Brush with egg and water mixture.
• Bake for 25-27 minutes or until golden.
Step 7: Serve
• Remove from oven.
• Cool for 10 minutes.
• Serve.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time (beef mixture): 15-20 minutes
• Assembly Time: 10-12 minutes
• Bake Time: 25-27 minutes
• Total Time: 67-74 minutes

Enjoy your Cheesy Beef Empanadas!

Mediterranean Baked Fish is a flavorful and healthy dish that combines fresh fish fillets with aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and a medley of vegetables. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal.

Ingredients:
For the Fish:
• 2 fish fillets🍣
• 6 sprigs thyme, chopped
• 3 sprigs rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons parsley, chopped or dried
• 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced or chopped (or use 2 teaspoons of garlic paste)🧄
• 1 teaspoon basil, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest🍋
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice🍋
• 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce🌶️
• ½ teaspoon salt🧂
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup olive oil
For the Veggies:
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes🍅
• ½ cup olives, pitted🫒
• 1 medium onion, diced🧅
• 1 zucchini, diced🥒

Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
•  Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Prepare Marinade
• Mix thyme, rosemary, oregano, parsley, garlic, basil (if using), lemon zest, lemon juice, sweet chili sauce, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
Step 3: Marinate Fish
• Place fish fillets in a shallow dish.
• Pour marinade over fish, ensuring they’re well coated.
• Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
• Combine cherry tomatoes, olives, onion, and zucchini.
• Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
• Toss to coat evenly.
Step 5: Assemble Dish
• Spread vegetables on a baking sheet or dish.
• Place marinated fish on top.
• Pour remaining marinade over fish and veggies.
Step 6: Bake
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until fish is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Step 7: Serve
• Let cool for a few minutes.
• Transfer fish and veggies to plates.
• Garnish with parsley or lemon wedges (optional).

Timings:
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Enjoy your juicy Mediterranean Baked Fish!

Juicy chicken, marinated in zesty Mediterranean flavors. Creamy feta tzatziki sauce, refreshing and tangy. Crisp veggies and warm pita bread complete the delight. This dish is a symphony of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
• 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced🍗
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice🍋
• 2 cloves garlic, minced🧄
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste🧂
For the Creamy Feta Tzatziki:
• 1 cup Greek yogurt🥣
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese🧀
• 1 cucumber, grated and drained🥒
• 2 cloves garlic, minced🧄
• 1 tbsp lemon juice🍋
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste🧂
For the Gyros:
• Pita bread🫓
• Sliced red onion🧅
• Chopped tomatoes🍅
• Shredded lettuce🥬

Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate Chicken
• Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
• Heat grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
• Cook chicken slices for 4-5 minutes per side, until fully cooked.
Step 3: Prepare Tzatziki
• Combine Greek yogurt, feta, cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
• Mix until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble Gyros
• Warm pita bread on grill or in oven.
• Place cooked chicken on pita.
• Add red onion, tomatoes, lettuce.
• Top with creamy feta tzatziki.
Optional:
• Add cayenne to chicken marinade for extra heat.
• Serve with Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 65 minutes

Servings: 4

Enjoy your juicy Chicken Gyros!

Tender chicken, fresh spinach, and earthy mushrooms unite in a harmonious blend of flavors. A creamy sauce infused with garlic and herbs envelops the dish. Melted mozzarella cheese adds a golden, velvety touch. This dish is low-carb and nutritious, yet satisfying and indulgent. A delightful, effortless meal for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:
• 6 thin sliced chicken breasts🍗
• 1 small bag fresh baby spinach🥬
• 1 Large package sliced mushrooms
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese🧀
• 1 container green onion cream cheese🥫
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup chicken broth🍲
• 1 dash pepper
• 1 dash herb and garlic seasoning🧄

Directions:
Step 1: Assemble Dish
1️⃣ Place chicken in a single layer in a 9×13 pan.
2️⃣ Add spinach and mushrooms on top.
3️⃣ Sprinkle pepper and Herb and Garlic Seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture
1️⃣ Soften cream cheese.
2️⃣ Whisk in olive oil and chicken broth.
3️⃣ Pour mixture over chicken and vegetables.
Step 3: Bake Covered
1️⃣ Cover with foil (do not seal).
2️⃣ Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Bake Uncovered
1️⃣ Remove foil.
2️⃣ Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish
1️⃣ Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
2️⃣ Bake uncovered for 10 minutes (or until lightly browned).
Step 6: Serve
1️⃣ Let cool for 10 minutes.
2️⃣ Serve hot.

Timings:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes•

• Cook Time: 50-55 minutes 

• Total Time: 60-70 minutes

Enjoy your Chicken Spinach and Mushroom Oven Dish!

Indulge in the simplicity and elegance of Pan-Seared Cod with White Wine Tomato Basil Sauce. Flaky cod fillets, seared to a golden crisp, are elevated by a light and zesty sauce. Fresh basil and cherry tomatoes infuse the dish with vibrant flavors. White wine adds depth and subtle sweetness. A harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:
• 4 cod fillets 🍣
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste🧂
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced🧄
• 1 onion, finely chopped🧅
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved🍅
• 1/2 cup white wine🍷
• Juice of 1 lemon🍋
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Directions:
Step 1: Prepare Cod
1️⃣ Season cod fillets with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Dust lightly with flour.
Step 2: Sear Cod
1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add cod; sear until golden (4 minutes per side).
3️⃣ Remove cod from skillet; set aside.
Step 3: Soften Aromatics
1️⃣ Add garlic and onion to skillet.
2️⃣ Sauté until onion is translucent.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
1️⃣ Add cherry tomatoes; cook until they start to break down.
Step 5: Create Sauce
1️⃣ Deglaze pan with white wine; scrape up bits.
2️⃣ Reduce heat; simmer until sauce thickens (5 minutes).
Step 6: Finish Cod
1️⃣ Return cod to skillet.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with fresh basil.
3️⃣ Drizzle with lemon juice.
4️⃣ Cook until cod is cooked through (2-3 minutes).

Timings:
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Calories: 220 kcal.

Servings: 4 servings.

Enjoy your Pan-Seared Cod!

A symphony of tropical flavors, Hawaiian Chicken Salad transports your taste buds to a lush island paradise. Juicy chicken, grilled to perfection, mingles with crunchy vegetables and creamy avocado. Sweet pineapple and tangy lime zest evoke the essence of Hawaiian sunshine. Fresh cilantro and fragrant ginger add depth and warmth. Quinoa provides a nutritious and filling base. Coconut milk and honey harmonize in a creamy dressing. A refreshing, healthy, and satisfying retreat from the ordinary.

Ingredients:
Proteins:
• 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced🍗
Vegetables:
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced red onion🧅
• 1 cup diced cucumber🥒
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper🫑
• 1/2 cup diced carrots🥕
Fruits:
• 1 cup diced pineapple🍍
• 1/2 cup diced mango (optional)🥭
Nuts/Seeds:
• 1/4 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Cheese:
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)🧀
Dressing:
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise🍶
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey🍯
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper, to taste🧂
Additional:
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions:
Step 1: Cook Chicken
1️⃣ Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2️⃣ Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3️⃣ Cook chicken until golden brown (6-8 minutes per side).
4️⃣ Rest, then slice into thin strips.
Step 2: Prepare Salad Base
1️⃣ Combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, garlic, ginger powder, lime zest, onion powder, red onion, and pineapple in a large bowl.
Step 3: Make Dressing
1️⃣ Whisk coconut milk, honey, lime juice, tamari sauce, and olive oil.
2️⃣ Season with salt and pepper; adjust sweetness/acidity.
Step 4: Add Quinoa
1️⃣ Add cooked quinoa to the salad bowl.
Step 5: Toss Salad
1️⃣ Pour dressing over salad; toss to combine.
Step 6: Garnish
1️⃣ Sprinkle ground cumin for extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve
1️⃣ Divide salad into individual bowls.
2️⃣ Drizzle with pineapple juice.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (chicken and quinoa)
• Total Time: 40-50 minutes
Additional Time:
• Letting chicken rest: 5 minutes
• Chilling salad (optional): 30 minutes to 2 hours

Servings: 4-6

Enjoy your juicy Hawaiian Chicken Salad!

Tender beef, simmered in a rich tapestry of spices, herbs, and savory sauces, converges with creamy refried beans and crunchy lettuce. Soft, pliable tortillas envelop the vibrant filling, holding within the promise of a satisfying bite. Melting cheese and tangy tomato sauce mingle, releasing a golden, gooey harmony that binds each component.

Ingredients:
Proteins:
• 1 lb ground beef🍖
Vegetables:
• 1/2 cup chopped onion🧅
• 2 cloves with minced garlic🧄
• 4.5 oz diced green peppers
• Minced green onions (for garnish)
Spices and Seasonings:
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt🧂
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Canned Goods:
• 16 oz refried beans🥫
• 8 oz tomato sauce🍅
• 10 oz enchilada sauce
• 15 oz Beanless Chili (Hormel)
Grains:
• 6 flour burrito tortillas (approx. 12 inches)🫓
Cheese and Toppings:
• 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese🧀
• 2 cups shredded lettuce🥬
• Additional toppings (optional)

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Brown ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Stir until evenly browned and onion is softened.
4. Drain grease.
5. Add garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Stir in green chili and refried beans until well blended. Keep warm.
7. Combine tomato sauce, bean-free pepper, and enchilada sauce in a skillet.
8. Whisk until well mixed; cook over medium heat until simmering. Keep warm.
9. Divide beef and bean mixture into 6 servings.
10. Place a burrito-sized tortilla on a plate.
11. Add 1/6 of the beef mixture, cheese, and lettuce (optional).
12. Fold tortilla sides over filling (like an envelope).
13. Repeat with remaining tortillas.
14. Place seam-side down in greased 9×13 oven-safe dishes.
15. Pour sauce over burritos.
16. Top with additional cheese.
17. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Additional Time:
• Letting burritos rest before serving: 5-10 minutes
• Optional toppings preparation (e.g., diced tomatoes, sour cream): 5-10 minutes
Total Time with Additional Steps: 65-80 minutes

Servings: 6

Serve hot and enjoy!

A symphony of flavors and textures, Chicken Cacciatore is a hearty Italian dish that celebrates the union of tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and rich sauce. Browned chicken thighs, infused with the depth of garlic and herbs, mingle with sautéed onions and bell peppers, their sweetness caramelized to perfection. Earthiness of mushrooms and tanginess of tomato paste and wine converge, creating a savory sauce that coats every bite. A comforting, satisfying masterpiece, Chicken Cacciatore is a testament to the beauty of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients:
Proteins:
• 1 ½ lb chicken thighs (680 g)🍗
• Kosher salt, to taste🧂
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Oils:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Vegetables:
• 8 oz baby bella mushrooms (225 g), sliced
• ½ medium yellow onion, sliced🧅
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced🫑
• 4 cloves garlic, minced🧄
Spices and Herbs:
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
Wet Ingredients:
• ½ cup red wine (120 g)🍷
• 14 oz diced tomatoes (400 g)🍅
• 1 cup chicken stock (240 g)🍗
Garnish:
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley (10 g)
Additional:
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste🍅

Directions:
Step 1: Prepare Chicken
1️⃣ Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
1️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 4-quart skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add chicken; cook 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
3️⃣ Transfer chicken to a bowl.
Step 3: Cook Mushrooms
1️⃣ Add another tablespoon olive oil to the pan.
2️⃣ Add mushrooms; lightly season with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Cook until mushrooms begin to brown, about 5 minutes.
4️⃣ Transfer mushrooms to the bowl with the chicken.
Step 4: Cook Vegetables
1️⃣ Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the pan.
2️⃣ Add onion and red bell pepper; season with salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Cook over medium heat until onion and pepper begin to brown, 5-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Aromatics
1️⃣ Create a well in the pan; add tomato paste.
2️⃣ Cook for 1 minute; mix with onions and peppers.
3️⃣ Add garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, and rosemary; stir to combine.
Step 6: Add Wine and Simmer
1️⃣ Add red wine; scrape up stuck-on bits from the pan.
2️⃣ Cook until wine is reduced by half.
Step 7: Add Tomatoes and Chicken Stock
1️⃣ Add diced tomatoes and chicken stock.
2️⃣ Bring to a simmer.
Step 8: Combine and Cook
1️⃣ Place chicken and mushrooms on top of simmering sauce.
2️⃣ Pour in accumulated juices from the bowl.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with parsley.
4️⃣ Cover; cook for 12 minutes or until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 9: Serve
1️⃣ Serve chicken and sauce over pasta or with bread alongside.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Servings:
For 4 servings.

Enjoy your Chicken Cacciatore!

Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls are a delightful, savory-sweet fusion, perfect for the holidays. Tender turkey, fragrant herbs, and crunchy bread crumbs blend harmoniously. Dried cranberries add tartness and chewiness, balancing the richness. Onion, celery, and parsley contribute freshness and depth. Thyme and seasonings infuse warmth and aromatic comfort. Golden-brown exterior gives way to a moist, flavorful interior. These bite-sized treasures are easy to make, perfect for snacking, appetizers, or side dishes.

Ingredients:
• 2 cups of bread crumbs🍞
• 1 cup of cooked turkey, shredded🥩
• 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, chopped
• 1/2 cup of onion, finely diced🧅
• 1/2 cup of celery, diced
• 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup of chicken broth🍗
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon of salt🧂
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 large egg🥚

Directions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
1️⃣ Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
2️⃣ Line baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.
Step 2: Prepare Stuffing Mixture
1️⃣ Mix bread crumbs, turkey, cranberries, onion, celery, and parsley in a large bowl.
2️⃣ Add thyme, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
Step 3: Add Liquid Ingredients
1️⃣ Pour in chicken broth.
2️⃣ Add egg.
3️⃣ Stir until evenly combined and moist.
4️⃣ Adjust moisture with additional broth if needed.
Step 4: Form Stuffing Balls
1️⃣ Scoop 2 tablespoons of mixture at a time.
2️⃣ Roll into balls.
3️⃣ Place on prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake
1️⃣ Bake for 25 minutes.
2️⃣ Check for golden brown and cooked-through.
Step 6: Serve
1️⃣ Serve warm as side dish or appetizer.
2️⃣ Offer gravy or cranberry sauce on the side.

Timings:
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
Additional Time:
• Preheating oven: 5 minutes
• Preparation of stuffing mixture: 10 minutes
• Forming stuffing balls: 5-7 minutes
Total Preparation and Cooking Time: 60-67 minutes

Servings:
12-15 stuffing balls.

Enjoy your crunchy Stuffing Balls!