The Mediterranean diet is famous around the world as one of the healthiest yet simultaneously most delicious ways to eat. From the tapas of Spain to the mezze of Greece and Turkey, via the indulgent delights of Italy and France, the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean are magnificent. So whether you are planning a grand adventure around Europe or just want to try a Mediterranean-themed dinner on a cruise ship, here are some of the most amazing dishes from the region that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Paella (Spain)
Originally from the Valencia region, this remarkable rice dish is now found across Spain. Cooked slowly in a huge shallow pan, paella is packed with a rich melange of flavors, including fresh seafood like shrimp and mussels, as well as chicken and, traditionally, rabbit. Some regional variations also included cured meats like chorizo, and even snails! The dish is generously spiced with saffron which also gives it the classic golden color and delightfully aromatic taste.
Moussaka (Greece)
This decadent, creamy Greek classic is often compared to a lasagna, thanks to its layers of bechamel sauce and ground lamb or beef. The Greek take on this classic dish, however, replaces the pasta sheets with delicious eggplant, creating a soft, creamy, smoky flavor sensation. Baked in an oven until a golden crust forms, it is the ultimate comfort food and makes for a wonderful evening meal.
Ratatouille (France)
Made (even more) famous thanks to the Pixar movie of the same name, most French ratatouille does not come prepared by a talking rat! This velvety vegetable stew originated as a simple, rustic dish in Provence, but has been elevated to a higher level as part of France’s cordon bleu traditions. The classic take on ratatouille involves tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and onions, simmered slowly with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Equally delicious served hot or cold, it works as a side dish with something robust or as the main event all on its own!
Fattoush (Lebanon)
Hailing from the eastern Mediterranean, fattoush is a crisp, zingy salad that can be found in many Middle Eastern countries but is most famously associated with Lebanon. A combination of crunchy greens, sweet tomatoes, cucumbers, and radishes, tossed together with toasted pitta bread and a tangy, electrifying sumac dressing, it is a wonderfully zesty dish perfect for hot summer weather.Shakshuka (North Africa)
One of the best breakfasts in Europe, if not the world, shakshuka is hugely popular in various forms across North Africa, the Middle East, and the Balkans. This rich, hearty dish consists of eggs poached in a spiced tomato and bell pepper sauce, seasoned with a variety of flavors including fresh chili, cumin, and smoky paprika, and topped with fresh, salty cheese. Served with fluffy, crunchy pide (Turkish flatbread) to soak up the delicious sauce, it is the perfect way to start the day.Baklava (Middle East)
This exquisite pastry dessert is luxuriously sweet and totally decadent, ideally served with a short, Turkish or espresso-style coffee. Layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts are draped with generous portions of honey for a bite of true heaven.
The Mediterranean is a treasure trove of culinary delights, with an incredibly diverse range of cuisines and cooking traditions tied together by a love and passion for food. From hearty comfort foods like moussaka to the zesty, zingy flavors of fattoush, these 6 dishes take you on an adventure through some of the most fascinating and wonderful countries and food customs the Mediterranean has to offer. Whether you are a veteran gourmet or a newbie to the tastes of the Mediterranean, these are dishes you should not miss!
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