10 Quick and Easy Greek Dinner Recipes for a Taste of the Mediterranean

Greek cuisine brings a wave of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients to the dinner table, making it a go-to for anyone seeking something delicious and nutritious. Here are 10 quick and easy Greek dinner recipes that will add a splash of Mediterranean magic to your meals. From zesty salads to hearty dishes, these recipes are perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family.

Greek Salad with Olives and Feta

Greek salad is a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavors in every bite. It combines fresh vegetables, briny olives, and creamy feta cheese, making it both satisfying and refreshing. This salad is simple to prepare, perfect for a quick dinner or a light lunch.

With the crunch of cucumbers, the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, and the kick from red onions, each ingredient plays a role in creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Tossed together with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of oregano, this Greek salad is a fantastic way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table.

Ingredients

• 2 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1/2 red onion, sliced
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
2. Add Olives and Feta: Toss in the Kalamata olives and crumbled feta cheese, mixing gently to avoid breaking the cheese.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss and Serve: Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Chickpea and Quinoa Tabbouleh

Chickpea and quinoa tabbouleh is a refreshing twist on the classic Mediterranean salad. This dish combines the earthy flavors of chickpeas and the nutty taste of quinoa, making it not just flavorful but also nutritious. It’s light, vibrant, and packed with fresh vegetables, making it perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying side dish.

What makes this recipe so appealing is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal in under 30 minutes. The bright colors and fresh herbs are sure to please both the eyes and the palate. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side to grilled meats, this tabbouleh is the essence of Mediterranean magic!

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cucumber, diced
• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup mint leaves, chopped
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let it cool.
2. Mix the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and mint.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Vegetarian Moussaka with Eggplant

Vegetarian moussaka is a delightful twist on the classic Greek dish, perfect for those seeking a hearty, meat-free option. This comforting casserole features layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy béchamel, creating a satisfying blend of flavors. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for a special occasion.

The dish is warm, flavorful, and incredibly filling, making it a favorite for both vegetarians and meat lovers alike. With its blend of spices and creamy texture, each bite offers a taste of the Mediterranean. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables!

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup lentils, cooked
• 2 cups béchamel sauce
• 1 cup grated cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Eggplant: Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened. Stir in tomatoes, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
3. Layer the Dish: In a baking dish, arrange a layer of eggplant, followed by the lentil mixture, then more eggplant. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of eggplant.
4. Add Béchamel: Pour béchamel sauce over the top layer of eggplant. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheese.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Lamb Gyros with Tzatziki Sauce

Lamb gyros are a delightful way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table. The tender marinated lamb is packed with flavor, and when wrapped in warm pita bread, it creates a satisfying meal that’s both filling and refreshing. The addition of tzatziki sauce, made from creamy yogurt and fresh cucumbers, adds a cool contrast that’s hard to beat.

This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a gathering. With just a few ingredients and quick prep time, you’ll be enjoying homemade gyros in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 lb lamb shoulder, cut into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup tzatziki sauce

Instructions

1. Marinate the Lamb: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the lamb strips and coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge.
2. Cook the Lamb: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated lamb and cook for about 7-10 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Warm the Pita: While the lamb is cooking, warm the pita breads in a dry skillet or wrap them in foil and place them in the oven for a few minutes.
4. Assemble the Gyros: Place a generous amount of the cooked lamb on each pita. Top with diced tomatoes, onion, parsley, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Roll the pita around the filling and enjoy your delicious lamb gyros with a side of fresh vegetables!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Souvlaki

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Souvlaki is a delicious and refreshing dish that captures the essence of Greek cuisine. Perfectly marinated chicken is threaded onto skewers and grilled to golden perfection, creating a flavorful meal that shines with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a great choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

The tangy lemon combined with fragrant herbs like oregano and parsley brings a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Whether served on its own or with a side of tzatziki and warm pita, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, packing them tightly but not overcrowded.
4. Grill the Souvlaki: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.

Seafood Paella with Saffron

Seafood paella is a vibrant dish that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your table. With its rich saffron-infused rice and succulent seafood, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. It’s relatively simple to prepare, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The combination of shrimp, mussels, and aromatic spices creates a warm, inviting meal that’s sure to impress. Plus, the colorful presentation makes it feel like a culinary celebration. Let’s dive into making this delicious seafood paella!

Ingredients

• 2 cups Bomba or Arborio rice
• 4 cups seafood stock
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 pound mussels, cleaned
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, steep saffron in a bit of warm seafood stock for about 10 minutes.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add bell pepper and diced tomatoes, cooking until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in rice, coating with the vegetable mixture for about 2 minutes. Add saffron, remaining seafood stock, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer. Once bubbling, reduce heat, cover, and let cook for about 15 minutes.
6. After 15 minutes, add shrimp and mussels to the pan. Cover and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until seafood is cooked through and mussels have opened.
7. Remove from heat, let sit for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice and Feta

Stuffed bell peppers are a delightful way to enjoy a healthy meal. This dish combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a savory filling of rice, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Each bite is bursting with flavor, making it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Making these stuffed peppers is straightforward, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Simply prepare the rice, mix in the feta and herbs, stuff the mixture into the peppers, and bake until tender. It’s that simple!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, feta cheese, diced tomatoes, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well.
4. Stuff the bell peppers with the rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack them.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Creamy Feta and Spinach Pasta

This Creamy Feta and Spinach Pasta is a delightful dish that brings a taste of Greece right to your dinner table. With its rich and creamy texture, paired with the freshness of spinach and the tanginess of feta, it’s a perfect blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

This recipe is super simple to whip up, making it ideal for a weekday dinner. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, and it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, around 2-3 minutes.
4. Create the Creamy Mixture: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and crumbled feta to the skillet. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy. If it’s too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
5. Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Plate your pasta and garnish with fresh basil or mint leaves. Enjoy your Mediterranean magic!

Honey and Yogurt Parfait with Walnuts

This Honey and Yogurt Parfait with Walnuts is a delightful treat that combines the creaminess of yogurt, the sweetness of honey, and the crunch of walnuts. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast or a light dessert, bringing a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table!

Making this parfait is incredibly simple and takes just a few minutes. Layer the ingredients in a glass for a beautiful presentation, and enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that make this dish both satisfying and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1 cup fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

1. In a glass or bowl, layer half of the Greek yogurt at the bottom.
2. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with a portion of the chopped walnuts and berries.
3. Add another layer of yogurt, followed by more honey, walnuts, and berries.
4. If desired, sprinkle cinnamon on top for added flavor.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a short while before enjoying.

Roasted Vegetable and Feta Tart

This Roasted Vegetable and Feta Tart is a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors packed in a flaky crust. The combination of fresh veggies and creamy feta cheese creates a taste that’s savory and satisfying. It’s a simple dish to whip up, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.

The tart features roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and olives that add a burst of color and flavor. Each bite offers a delightful mix of textures, while the feta melts beautifully, enriching the entire dish. With minimal prep time, you’ll find this recipe is a go-to in your weeknight meal rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pie crust
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
• 1 cup feta cheese, cubed
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust in a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
3. In a bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, olives, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Remove the crust from the oven and fill it with the vegetable mixture, then top with feta cheese.
5. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is slightly golden.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious tart warm or at room temperature!