Enhanced Recipesculinary collection
Home
CoursesView CuisinesWhat Can I Make?My Kitchen

10 Easy Gluten Free Recipes | Mediterranean Diet

Login to Save
31K views👍 883
mediterraneanliving
mediterraneanliving
13 recipes on Enhanced Recipes
Follow mediterraneanliving to prioritize their recipes in your meal plans, pantry matches, and suggestions

Recipes in this Video

11 recipes
vegetariangluten-free

Originating from the Mediterranean region, this quinoa salad reflects the vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients typical of Greek cuisine. It is often enjoyed as a refreshing side dish or light meal, especially during warm months. With the rise of quinoa as a health food, variations of this salad have gained popularity worldwide, incorporating local ingredients while maintaining its Mediterranean roots.

Ingredients

  • quinoa
  • cucumber
  • cherry tomatoes
  • red onion
  • bell pepper
  • parsley
  • feta cheese
  • black olives
  • lemon juice
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse quinoa under cold water until water runs clear.
  2. 2Cook quinoa according to package instructions, then let cool.
  3. 3Chop cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and bell pepper into small pieces.
  4. 4Finely chop parsley and set aside.
  5. 5In a large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, chopped vegetables, and parsley.
  6. 6Add crumbled feta cheese and black olives to the bowl.
  7. 7In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
  8. 8Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
  9. 9Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  10. 10Let the salad sit for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Ingredient Alternatives

feta cheese

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: cottage cheese

Tofu provides a similar texture while being lower in calories.

quinoa

Healthier: farro

Cheaper: brown rice

Brown rice is more economical and still provides a hearty base.

Techniques

choppingmixingcooking

Equipment

potmixing bowlwhiskknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

Quinoa TabboulehGreek Quinoa Salad

Ingredients

  • 1 cup polenta
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add 1/2 tsp salt.
  2. 2Gradually whisk in 1 cup of polenta, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
  3. 3Reduce heat to low and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
  4. 4In a skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. 5Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes if using.
  6. 6In a separate pan, cook the eggs to your liking (poached or fried).
  7. 7Once the polenta is cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. 8To serve, spoon the polenta onto plates, top with sautéed onions and spinach, and place a cooked egg on top.
  9. 9Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Equipment

medium saucepanskilletwhiskspatulaplates

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1In a mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, almond milk, Greek yogurt, honey, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
  2. 2Stir the mixture until well combined.
  3. 3Fold in the fresh blueberries gently to avoid crushing them.
  4. 4Divide the mixture into two jars or containers with lids.
  5. 5Seal the jars and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to allow the oats to soak.
  6. 6In the morning, give the oats a good stir before serving.
  7. 7Top with additional blueberries and chopped nuts if desired.
  8. 8Enjoy your nutritious breakfast cold or warm it up in the microwave for a minute.

Equipment

mixing bowlspoonjars or containers with lids
veganvegetarianplant-basedgluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Lentil soup is a staple in Italian cuisine, often enjoyed during colder months. It is a hearty dish that reflects the agricultural traditions of Italy, where lentils are cultivated. This soup is not only nutritious but also symbolizes prosperity and good luck, especially when served on New Year's Day. Variations exist across regions, showcasing local ingredients and flavors.

Ingredients

  • lentils
  • carrots
  • celery
  • onion
  • garlic
  • vegetable broth
  • olive oil
  • bay leaves
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
  2. 2In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. 3Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened.
  4. 4Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  5. 5Add the lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
  6. 6Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until lentils are tender.
  7. 7Remove bay leaves before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

lentils

Healthier: green lentils

Cheaper: split peas

Split peas are often less expensive and cook faster.

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is a budget-friendly alternative.

Techniques

sautéingboiling

Equipment

large potcutting boardknifemeasuring cups
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Zuppa di Lenticchie

Ingredients

  • 6 large eggs
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, ricotta cheese, milk, salt, pepper, and nutmeg until well combined.
  3. 3In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped spinach and sauté until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. 4Remove the skillet from heat and let the spinach cool slightly before adding it to the egg mixture.
  5. 5Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until evenly distributed.
  6. 6Pour the egg and spinach mixture back into the skillet or a greased oven-safe dish.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the frittata is set and lightly golden on top.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
  9. 9Serve warm or at room temperature.

Equipment

large bowlwhiskskilletoven-safe dish

Stuffed peppers are a popular dish in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly in Spain and Italy. They are often filled with a mixture of meat, rice, and vegetables, making them a hearty and versatile meal. This dish can be adapted to include various fillings based on regional ingredients and personal preferences, showcasing the adaptability of traditional recipes.

Ingredients

  • bell peppers
  • rice
  • ground meat
  • onion
  • tomato sauce
  • cheese
  • spices

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  3. 3In a pan, sauté chopped onion until translucent.
  4. 4Add ground meat and cook until browned.
  5. 5Stir in cooked rice, tomato sauce, and spices; mix well.
  6. 6Stuff the mixture into the hollowed peppers.
  7. 7Place stuffed peppers upright in a baking dish.
  8. 8Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  9. 9Remove foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
  10. 10Serve hot.

Ingredient Alternatives

ground meat

Healthier: lean turkey

Cheaper: ground chicken

Lower in fat and calories, or more budget-friendly.

cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: processed cheese

More nutritious or a cheaper alternative.

Techniques

sautéingbaking

Equipment

baking dishpanknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Mediumdairy

Also Known As

Stuffed Bell PeppersFilled Peppers
veganplant-baseddairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Ingredients

  • 1 medium head cauliflower, chopped
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tbsp black sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Fresh chives for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. 2Add the chopped cauliflower and diced potatoes to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic.
  3. 3Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  4. 4Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
  5. 5Stir in the coconut milk, black sesame oil, salt, black pepper, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  6. 6Heat the soup gently over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes. Do not boil.
  7. 7Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  8. 8Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives.

Equipment

large potimmersion blendermeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonscutting boardknife

Zucchini fritters, or 'Zucchini-Puffer', are a popular dish in Germany, especially during the summer when zucchini is in abundance. They are often enjoyed as a snack or side dish, showcasing the versatility of this vegetable. Today, variations can be found globally, with many adapting the recipe to include different herbs and spices.

Ingredients

  • zucchini
  • eggs
  • all-purpose flour
  • parmesan cheese
  • green onions
  • garlic
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • olive oil
  • baking powder
  • fresh parsley
  • lemon juice

Instructions

  1. 1Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel; squeeze to remove excess moisture.
  2. 2In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, eggs, and lemon juice.
  3. 3Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and parmesan cheese to the zucchini mixture.
  4. 4Finely chop the green onions, garlic, and parsley; add them to the bowl.
  5. 5Season the mixture with salt and black pepper; stir until well combined.
  6. 6Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
  7. 7Scoop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly.
  8. 8Cook the fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  9. 9Transfer cooked fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  10. 10Serve warm, garnished with additional parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
milkeggswheat

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup polenta
  • 4 cups water
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2In a bowl, mix tahini, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  3. 3Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  4. 4While the chicken is marinating, bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
  5. 5Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
  6. 6Reduce heat to low and cook the polenta for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
  7. 7Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and butter into the polenta, mixing until smooth. Season with salt to taste.
  8. 8Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
  9. 9Once the chicken is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  10. 10Serve the tahini chicken over a bed of creamy polenta, garnished with fresh parsley.

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking sheetsaucepanwhiskspatula
vegetarian

Grilled Eggplant Parmesan, or Melanzane alla Parmigiana, hails from Southern Italy, where it showcases the region's abundant produce and culinary traditions. This dish is a celebration of summer flavors, using grilled eggplant layered with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. It has become a beloved comfort food, found in Italian kitchens and restaurants worldwide, with many variations adapting to local tastes.

Ingredients

  • eggplant
  • olive oil
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • marinara sauce
  • mozzarella cheese
  • parmesan cheese
  • fresh basil
  • garlic
  • breadcrumbs
  • egg
  • Italian seasoning
  • red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. 1Slice eggplant into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
  2. 2Sprinkle salt on both sides of the eggplant slices and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. 3Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  4. 4Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  5. 5Brush the eggplant slices with olive oil and season with black pepper.
  6. 6Grill the eggplant for 4-5 minutes on each side until tender and grill marks appear.
  7. 7In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
  8. 8Layer half of the grilled eggplant slices over the sauce.
  9. 9Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese and half of the parmesan cheese over the eggplant.
  10. 10Add a layer of fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
  11. 11Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, sauce, and cheeses.
  12. 12Top with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil.
  13. 13Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  14. 14Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

mozzarella cheese

Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

Cheaper: provolone cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grana padano

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative with a cheesy flavor.

Techniques

slicinggrillinglayeringbaking

Equipment

grillbaking dishpaper towelsknifecutting boardmixing bowl
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilkeggswheat

Also Known As

Melanzane alla ParmigianaEggplant Parmigiana
vegetarianplant-baseddairy-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Roasted vegetables are a staple in many cuisines, celebrated for their ability to enhance the natural sweetness and flavors of seasonal produce. This cooking method allows for a variety of vegetables to be prepared together, making it a versatile side dish for any meal. Today, roasted vegetables are enjoyed globally, often customized with different herbs and spices to suit regional tastes.

Ingredients

  • carrots
  • bell peppers
  • zucchini
  • red onion
  • broccoli
  • olive oil
  • garlic
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • rosemary
  • thyme
  • balsamic vinegar
  • lemon juice
  • parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2Wash and peel the carrots; cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. 3Wash and deseed the bell peppers; cut into strips.
  4. 4Wash and slice the zucchini into rounds.
  5. 5Peel and slice the red onion into wedges.
  6. 6Wash and cut the broccoli into florets.
  7. 7In a large bowl, combine all the vegetables.
  8. 8Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
  9. 9Add minced garlic, salt, black pepper, rosemary, and thyme; mix well.
  10. 10Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  11. 11Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.
  12. 12Remove from the oven and drizzle with balsamic vinegar and lemon juice.
  13. 13Toss gently to combine and let cool slightly before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is healthier.

parmesan cheese

Healthier: nutritional yeast

Cheaper: grated cheddar

Nutritional yeast is dairy-free and adds a cheesy flavor.

Techniques

mixingroasting

Equipment

large bowlbaking sheetknifecutting board
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Oven-Roasted VegetablesSeasoned Roasted Vegetables

More Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Videos

(14 videos)

Similar Mediterranean Videos

(24 videos)

Similar Recipes From Other Cuisines

(24 videos)