Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and indulge in some delicious Mediterranean cuisine. The fresh, vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean region are ideal for creating mouthwatering dishes that are sure to impress your family and friends at your next BBQ.
From succulent meats to flavorful vegetables, here are 12 grilled recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean.
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
This recipe combines juicy chicken breasts with a zesty lemon herb marinade that infuses the meat with bright, refreshing flavors.
Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, and thyme for at least two hours before grilling. The result is tender, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables.
2. Greek-Style Grilled Lamb Chops
Lamb chops are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, and this Greek-inspired recipe is sure to be a hit. The chops are marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection.
The key to this dish is allowing the lamb to marinate for several hours to absorb all the wonderful flavors. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce and grilled pita bread for a complete meal.
3. Grilled Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi, a firm and slightly salty cheese from Cyprus, is perfect for grilling. Its high melting point means it won’t fall apart on the grill, making it an excellent addition to any BBQ.
Simply slice the cheese and grill until golden brown on each side. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delightful appetizer or side dish.
4. Mediterranean Grilled Vegetable Platter
A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables is a must-have for any Mediterranean BBQ. Bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onions are marinated in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled until tender and slightly charred.
This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to add some healthy options to your BBQ spread.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic and Lemon
These grilled shrimp skewers are bursting with flavor and incredibly easy to make. The shrimp are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and paprika, then threaded onto skewers and grilled until pink and slightly charred.
Serve with a side of garlic aioli or a fresh Mediterranean salad for a light and satisfying meal.
6. Grilled Octopus with Olive Oil and Lemon
Grilled octopus is a delicacy in many Mediterranean countries, and it’s easier to prepare than you might think.
The octopus is first boiled until tender, then marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano before being grilled to perfection. The result is a tender, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress your guests.
7. Grilled Feta Stuffed Peppers
These grilled peppers stuffed with feta cheese are a delicious and visually stunning addition to your BBQ. Choose small, sweet peppers, stuff them with a mixture of crumbled feta, herbs, and olive oil, and grill until the peppers are charred and the cheese is melted.
These peppers make a great appetizer or side dish and are sure to be a hit with your guests.
8. Grilled Swordfish Steaks with Capers and Olives
Swordfish is a firm, meaty fish that holds up well on the grill. This recipe features swordfish steaks marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, capers, and olives, then grilled until just cooked through.
The briny capers and olives add a burst of flavor that complements the rich, meaty fish perfectly.
9. Grilled Pita Bread with Za’atar
No Mediterranean BBQ is complete without some grilled pita bread. This recipe takes it up a notch by brushing the pita with olive oil and sprinkling it with za’atar, a Middle Eastern spice blend made from sesame seeds, thyme, and sumac.
Grill the pita until warm and slightly charred, then serve with hummus, baba ghanoush, or any other dip of your choice.
10. Grilled Artichokes with Lemon Aioli
Artichokes are a delicious and healthy addition to any Mediterranean BBQ. This recipe involves parboiling the artichokes until tender, then grilling them until they are slightly charred and smoky.
Serve with a tangy lemon aioli for dipping, and you have a dish that’s both impressive and easy to prepare.
11. Grilled Lamb Kofta
Kofta, a type of meatball or meat patty, is popular throughout the Mediterranean. This recipe features ground lamb mixed with garlic, onions, parsley, and a blend of spices, then formed into patties and grilled until cooked through.
Serve with pita bread, tzatziki, and a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
12. Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad
For a sweet and savory end to your Mediterranean BBQ, try this grilled peach and burrata salad. Halve and grill ripe peaches until they are caramelized and slightly charred, then serve with creamy burrata cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
This salad is the perfect way to showcase the flavors of summer and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Other Stories That You May Like
Conclusion
These 12 Mediterranean grilled recipes are perfect for your summer BBQs, offering a delightful array of flavors and textures that are sure to impress your guests.
From succulent meats and seafood to vibrant vegetables and cheeses, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and savor the taste of the Mediterranean this summer.