Get ready to bring a taste of sunshine to your Christmas celebration by infusing your festive feast with the vibrant flavors and hearty dishes of the Mediterranean. This year, we’re swapping snowflakes for olive trees and evergreen for a burst of citrus freshness. Our curated collection of Mediterranean-inspired recipes is sure to make your holiday gathering truly unforgettable.
From tender Greek-style roasts to sweet Italian treats, these dishes are packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with loved ones. If you’re looking for even more inspiration, be sure to check out our German Christmas recipes and international Christmas sweets recipes. Now, don the apron, crank up the holiday tunes, and join us on this delectable journey! Here’s a selection of our top Mediterranean Christmas recipes to try:
MEDITERRANEAN CRESCENT RING
Bring the warm spirit of the Mediterranean to your holiday gathering with Erica’s Recipes’ show-stopping Crescent Ring. This vegetarian masterpiece combines an array of flavors and textures in a flaky crescent roll, featuring a medley of delights such as spinach, artichokes, dual cheeses, roasted peppers, and olives. The result is a shareable dish that’s bursting with flavor and sure to leave everyone wanting seconds.
MEDITERRANEAN CHEESE BALL BITES
Kick off your holiday party in style with these bite-sized Mediterranean Cheese Ball Bites, the ultimate showstopper for any gathering. The harmonious fusion of Parmesan, crispy bacon, sweet fig, and crunchy toasted nuts will have your guests swooning. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or elevating your charcuterie boards to new heights, this irresistible appetizer is sure to bring the applause!
MEDITERRANEAN ONION SOUP
Experience the flavors of Greece at your Christmas dinner with the Mediterranean Onion Soup, a divine twist on the classic French onion soup. This mouthwatering starter is elevated by caramelized onions, shallots, leeks, and a hint of truffle oil, creating a drool-worthy delight that your guests will cherish long after the holiday season has passed.
MEDITERRANEAN SHRIMP PIZZA ON FLATBREAD
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with a twist on a classic dish – the Mediterranean Shrimp Pizza on Flatbread! This delectable combination of succulent shrimp, crumbly feta cheese, sweet shallots, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a quick after-school snack, or even a cozy night in with your loved one.
The simplicity of this dish belies its ability to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast, where the air is warm and the food is always delicious.
MEDITERRANEAN CABBAGE PEAR SALAD
Infuse your holiday celebrations with the essence of Greece by incorporating the Mediterranean Cabbage Pear Salad into your Christmas feast. This symphony of flavors and textures, comprising cabbage, pear, raisins, prosciutto, and pomegranate, will not only refresh your palate but also elevate your main courses to new heights. With its unique blend of fresh, fruity, and savory notes, this salad is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering.
For more inspiration, check out our compilation of the best Christmas salad recipes.
PARSNIP AND PORCINI WELLINGTON
In a culinary coup de grâce, Maria Elia’s Parsnip and Porcini Wellington has won over even the most ardent non-vegetarians. This exceptional plant-based Wellington is so convincing, it effortlessly bridges the gap between meat-eaters, veggies, and vegans alike, making it an assured showstopper at any gathering.
BURBARA (WHEAT BERRY PUDDING)
Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the Middle East by exploring the delightful Burbara or Wheat Berry Pudding. This velvety dessert, infused with aromatic spices like anise and fennel seeds, is typically served during the festive Christmas season in the Levant region, providing a sweet start to the holiday celebrations.
MELOMAKARONA (GREEK CHRISTMAS HONEY COOKIES)
Indulge in the sweetness of Melomakarona, Greece’s renowned Christmas Honey Cookies. These sumptuous treats are infused with the warmth of honey syrup, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of cinnamon and orange zest, making them an irresistible treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. The perfect indulgence to round off your Greek Christmas celebration.
RASPBERRY AND PISTACHIO WREATH
Indulge in the magic of the holiday season with our scrumptious Raspberry and Pistachio Wreath recipe, perfect for Christmas celebrations. This delightful dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes an exceptional gift for loved ones. The harmonious blend of tart raspberry and nutty pistachio creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on your family and friends.
SPANAKOPITA BITES
Impress your guests with Spanakopita Bites, the flaky phyllo appetizers that have captured the hearts of my family. A treasured family recipe, passed down from my mother-in-law, has earned its place in our culinary repertoire. With every buttery bite, it’s no wonder why these mini Greek treats disappear quickly – their charm is undeniable.
MEDITERRANEAN SOURDOUGH STUFFING
Elevate Your Christmas Dinner with Mediterranean FlairLooking to add a dash of sunshine to your holiday gathering? This Mediterranean Sourdough Stuffing is the perfect way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your Christmas dinner. By combining the bold flavors of olives and sun-dried tomatoes, this vegan stuffing not only offers a modern twist on traditional fare but also complements the festive atmosphere of a Mediterranean-inspired Christmas celebration.
MEDITERRANEAN GRILLED VEGETABLES
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean with this mouthwatering recipe for grilled vegetables. By mastering the art of grilling, you’ll bring out the natural sweetness in each tender vegetable, perfectly balanced by a zesty drizzle of Mediterranean dressing. A single bite is all it takes to become hooked on these delectable charred delights.
MEDITERRANEAN GALETTE
For those who crave the bold and aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean, Meem’s Kitchen has a delightful surprise in store – the Mediterranean Galette. This scrumptious masterpiece harmoniously blends the essence of the region’s rich culinary heritage into a single, satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more.
GREEK QUESADILLAS
There’s something undeniably irresistible about a perfectly crafted quesadilla, especially one that combines the rich flavors of Greece. Imagine a crispy tortilla wrapped around a melty blend of feta cheese, juicy olives, and savory spinach, all topped with a dollop of creamy homemade tzatziki sauce. The harmony of tastes in each bite is nothing short of culinary magic.
MEDITERRANEAN BAKED FETA
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with Aberdeen’s Kitchen’s latest delight: Mediterranean Baked Feta. This mouthwatering snack is surprisingly easy to prepare – simply preheat your oven, gather your essential ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a scrumptious treat that will transport you straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean!
DOPIAZEH ALOO (PERSIAN POTATO CURRY)
Indulge in the rich flavors of Southern Iran with Dopiazeh Aloo, a mouth-watering potato curry that strikes a perfect balance between warmth and mild spiciness. This delectable vegetarian side dish is an excellent accompaniment to a range of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean main courses, effortlessly elevating your meal to new heights.
KOURABIEDES (GREEK CHRISTMAS COOKIES)
Indulge in the quintessential Greek Christmas tradition of Baked Ambrosia with Kourabiedes. These delectable butter almond cookies melt effortlessly on your palate, making them a beloved holiday treat that’s sure to win over hearts and taste buds alike.
ZA’ATAR ROASTED CASHEWS
Kick off your holiday gatherings with a flavorful twist on traditional appetizers. Our Za’atar Roasted Cashews bring together the rich, buttery taste of roasted nuts with the aromatic essence of classic Middle Eastern spices, creating a delightful combination that will leave your guests wanting more. With each crunchy bite, you’ll experience the perfect blend of savory and sweet, making them an ideal holiday starter to get your party started.
BAKED BRIE WITH FIG JAM
Elevate your next event with an effortless yet impressive Baked Brie with Fig Jam that’s ready in just 15 minutes. This delectable combination of warm, melted brie topped with sweet fig jam, crunchy walnuts, and toasted pistachios is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. It’s simplicity at its finest, making it one of the most satisfying and crowd-pleasing appetizers you’ll ever have the pleasure of serving.
STUFFED DATES
Indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean without breaking a sweat or firing up the stove. Our Goat Cheese Stuffed Dates recipe is a cinch to prepare and requires just 10 minutes of your time. To create this show-stopping party appetizer, simply gather medjool dates, crumbly goat cheese, crunchy walnuts, and a drizzle of golden honey. Your guests will be left craving more of these sweet and savory treats.
THREE OLIVE TAPENADE
Elevate any social gathering with the effortless charm of Three Olive Tapenade, a make-ahead masterpiece that harmonizes three distinct olive varieties with capers for an unmistakable blend of salty, briny flavors. A symphony of garlic, roasted red peppers, lemon zest, and aromatic herbs weaves together to create a culinary experience that will have your guests’ taste buds doing the happy dance!
FARINATA (ITALIAN CHICKPEA PANCAKE)
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy with Farinata, a mouthwatering chickpea pancake that perfectly balances crispy edges with a creamy center. This versatile and gluten-free treat is ideal for serving as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Its allure extends beyond dietary restrictions, appealing to anyone seeking a taste of Italy’s rich culinary heritage.
GREEK-STYLE POTATOES
Indulge in the savory flavors of Greece with our mouthwatering Vegan Greek-Style Potatoes recipe, perfect for sharing with your loved ones. This dish is a testament to the incredible versatility of plant-based cuisine, proving that a hearty and satisfying meal can be enjoyed by all – including vegans!
MEDITERRANEAN PINWHEELS
Elevate your social gatherings by serving a mouthwatering Mediterranean Pinwheel that will surely impress your guests. With its delightful combination of three types of cheese, succulent spinach, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant fresh basil, this flavorful finger food is sure to be the star of the show! Simply fill tortilla wraps with these tasty ingredients for an effortless yet impressive appetizer or snack.
MEDITERRANEAN YELLOW RICE
Indulge in a culinary trip to the Mediterranean by whipping up our simple yet sensational Yellow Rice recipe. The perfect blend of sautéed onions, turmeric, and cumin sets the stage for a flavorful ride that culminates with perfectly cooked rice. Whether you’re serving it alongside kebabs, lamb koftas, or grilled vegetables, this vegan Greek pilaf is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast.
MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN MEATBALLS
Elevate your gatherings with the mouth-watering Mediterranean Chicken Meatballs that will leave your guests in awe! These tender and juicy meatballs are surprisingly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a mere 30 minutes on the clock. Serve them atop a fresh salad, over fluffy rice, wrapped in a crispy pita, or as an irresistible appetizer. Their undeniable flavor is sure to make them the star of your Grilled Cheese Social – or any occasion, for that matter!
MEDITERRANEAN STUFFED MUSHROOMS
Impress your dinner party guests with the simplicity and sophistication of Mediterranean Stuffed Mushrooms from Aggie’s Kitchen. This elegant vegetarian appetizer is a masterclass in flavor and texture, perfectly capturing the essence of the Mediterranean region. With its light and delicate approach, this dish is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
TAKTOUKA (MOROCCAN TOMATO AND ROASTED BELL PEPPER SALAD)
Discover the essence of Moroccan cuisine with Taktouka, a delectable salad that harmoniously blends roasted green pepper, rich tomato sauce, and an array of aromatic flavors. This delightful appetizer not only tantalizes your taste buds but also boasts a satisfying healthy twist – its flavor profile evolves beautifully over time, with notes of garlic, spice, and subtle smokiness that will leave you craving more.
MEDITERRANEAN STUFFED PORK TENDERLOIN
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with our mouthwatering Stuffed Pork Tenderloin recipe. This culinary masterpiece combines the creaminess of spinach and feta cheese with a tangy balsamic and rosemary sauce, resulting in a succulent pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress your family and friends alike, right in the comfort of your own home kitchen.
ROASTED TOMATO AND GARLIC TART
Indulge in our show-stopping Roasted Tomato and Garlic Tart, masterfully constructed from layers of rolled and folded dough that yields an impressively flaky puff pastry capable of expanding up to eight times its initial size. To achieve the best results, be sure to keep it refrigerated and experiment with different cutting techniques – either slice it as instructed for a timeless tart or transform it into bite-sized morsels perfect for your next gathering.
CRISPY HOMEMADE FISH STICKS
Hosting a fish fry at home has never been easier or more delicious! Our recipe for Crispy Homemade Fish Sticks yields perfect results: tender on the inside, crispy on the outside. The key to their mouthwatering flavor? A perfect balance of seasoning and Parmesan crust that will leave your guests begging for more.
BRIE, APPLE, AND HONEY CROSTINI
When it comes to quick and easy appetizers perfect for holiday parties, few dishes impress quite like Brie, Apple, and Honey Crostini. This delightful combination requires just 15 minutes of preparation time, making it an ideal choice for gatherings with friends and family. The harmonious blend of creamy brie, crisp apple, and sweet honey on toasted crostini is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
PERSIAN MULBERRY MARZIPAN CANDY
Indulge in the sweet charm of Persia with our Mulberry Marzipan Candy, affectionately referred to as ‘Toot’. This delectable, no-fuss treat is not only vegan, gluten-free, and easy to prepare, but also requires a mere 5 ingredients. As a cherished tradition during Norooz (Persian New Year) and other celebrations, it’s undergone a thoughtful makeover into a nutritious and classic recipe.
GREEK BAKED CHICKEN WINGS
Elevate your chicken wings game by trying our Greek Baked Chicken Wings recipe, a refreshing twist on traditional fare. By combining the bold flavors of garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and oregano with tender chicken, you’ll create a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also healthy and packed with Mediterranean charm. Serve these wings alongside a tangy Tzatziki sauce for dipping, and finish them off with crumbled feta and fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor.
This recipe is just one example of how Mediterranean Christmas cooking brings warmth, color, and exotic flair to your holiday table. By embracing the rich cultural heritage of this culinary tradition, you’ll craft a feast that’s both comforting and exciting, perfect for impressing your guests and creating unforgettable memories. With a little time and effort, you’ll be rewarded with a truly spectacular Christmas spread that’s sure to bring joy, love, and deliciousness to your celebration.
