The 9 Best Mediterranean Cuisines

Mediterranean cuisine is well known for its incredible flavours and fresh ingredients. The region offers a diverse array of culinary delights influenced by countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Lebanon. 

This article highlights some delightful Mediterranean cuisines you should definitely try. 

Delicious Cuisines to Try

Whenever you are in any of the Mediterranean cities or just want to cook something special at home, try out any of these cuisines. Interestingly, a plain yogurt goes well with the cuisines listed below.

Greek cuisine

Greek cuisine is a true gem of the Mediterranean, known for its simplicity and bold flavors. 

Classic dishes include moussaka (a baked eggplant and ground meat casserole) and souvlaki (grilled meat skewers). 

You can also enjoy tzatziki (a refreshing yogurt and cucumber dip) and spanakopita (a spinach and feta cheese pastry).

Italian cuisine

Italy's Mediterranean cuisine is beloved worldwide. Pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, and ravioli are staples. Don't forget about the delicious pizzas topped with fresh mozzarella and basil. Italian cuisine also offers delectable desserts such as tiramisu, cannoli, and panna cotta.

Spanish cuisine

This Mediterranean cuisine is popular for its diverse regional variations. Tapas, small plates of various dishes, are incredibly popular. 

Try patatas bravas (spicy potatoes), gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp), and tortilla española (potato omelet). 

Paella, a flavorful rice dish with seafood or meat, is a must-try Spanish specialty.

Turkish cuisine

Turkish cuisine combines Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Mediterranean influences. 

Indulge in mouthwatering dishes like kebabs (grilled marinated meat), lahmacun (Turkish pizza), and meze platters (assorted appetizers). 

Never forget to try baklava - a sweet pastry that has nuts drenched in honey.

Lebanese cuisine

This cuisine is rich in flavors and comes with a variety of vegetarian options. 

Enjoy dishes like falafel (fried chickpea balls), tabbouleh (a refreshing salad with parsley, bulgur wheat, and tomatoes), and shawarma (marinated meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie). 

Don't forget to savor some creamy hummus and smoky baba ganoush.

Moroccan cuisine

Here comes delicious cuisine, a blend of Arab, Mediterranean, and African flavors. 

Tagine, a slow-cooked stew with tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, is a signature dish. 

Try couscous, a fluffy semolina grain traditionally served with meat and vegetables. 

The sweet and savory combination of dishes like pastilla (a savory pastry with meat and spices) is also a treat.

French cuisine

While France is not strictly a Mediterranean country, its southern regions heavily influenced Mediterranean cuisine. 

French dishes like bouillabaisse (fish stew), ratatouille (vegetable medley), and niçoise salad (tuna salad with olives and tomatoes) capture the essence of Mediterranean flavors. Treat yourself to exquisite pastries like croissants and crème brûlée for dessert.

Israeli cuisine

This cuisine showcases a combination of North African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors. 

Delight in dishes like falafel, shakshuka (eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce), and sabich (a sandwich with fried eggplant and various fillings). Hummus and tahini play a starring role in many Israeli dishes.

Tunisian cuisine

Tunisian cuisine boasts bold and fiery flavors. Harissa, a spicy chili paste, is a key ingredient in many dishes. 

Sample dishes like brik (a fried pastry stuffed with egg and tuna), couscous with spicy merguez sausages, and tajine (a slow-cooked stew). 

To conclude, Mediterranean cuisine is simply tempting and tasty. You will always want more after trying out any of the cuisines discussed above. Enjoy your tour!