9 Mediterranean One-Pan Dinner Recipes

When it comes to cooking, I love finding meals that are both delicious and healthy.

One of my favorite ways to do this is by exploring Mediterranean cuisine, known for its vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients.

Today, I want to share 9 Mediterranean one-pan dinners that make it easy to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying great food.

These recipes not only bring a taste of the Mediterranean to my table but also help simplify weeknight cooking.

With just one pan needed for each meal, I can save time on cleanup and still serve up nutritious dishes packed with fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy grains.

Whether you’re busy, trying to eat healthier, or just love flavorful meals, these recipes can be a game changer in your kitchen.

1. Grecian Chicken with Olives and Artichokes

I love making Grecian Chicken with Olives and Artichokes because it brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to my table.

The combination of tender chicken, briny olives, and artichokes creates a dish that’s not just tasty but also colorful.

This recipe is quite easy to prepare, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight. The flavors blend beautifully with garlic, lemon juice, and dried oregano, making each bite delightful.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup kalamata olives
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, drained
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then add it to the pan. Cook for about 7-8 minutes on each side until golden brown.
2. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the olives, artichokes, oregano, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and cook on medium-low for 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches 165°F.

Pro Tips:

Feel free to swap the chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat.

This dish also works well with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.

If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken and simply heat it through with the sauce.

I often use a cast-iron skillet for the best flavor and heat retention. You can find great options here.

Enjoy this dish with a side of rice or a simple salad for a complete meal.

2. Tuscan White Bean Skillet

I love making a Tuscan White Bean Skillet for its simplicity and rich flavors. This dish is packed with protein and fiber, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. With sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and artichokes, the flavors remind me of warm Mediterranean nights.

This one-pan meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare, and it’s easy for beginners.

You’ll need:

• 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

To make it, start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft. Then, add the sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes, cooking for a few more minutes.

Stir in the beans and broth, along with the Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

For pro tips, feel free to add spinach for extra greens or top it with some Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.

I also love serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

You can change things up by using different beans or adding leftover veggies you have on hand. This Tuscan dish is a flexible and delicious choice for any weeknight dinner!

3. One-Pan Salmon with Lemon and Dill

When I need a quick and healthy dinner, I turn to my One-Pan Salmon with Lemon and Dill. It’s packed with fresh flavors and takes just 25 minutes to make.

This dish is not only delicious but also easy to cook.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The combination of lemon, dill, and olive oil enhances the salmon’s natural taste without overpowering it. The asparagus adds a lovely crunch, making it a perfect pairing.

For this recipe, I use:

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 bunch asparagus
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

To cook, I preheat my oven to 400°F. In a baking sheet, I arrange the salmon and asparagus. I drizzle olive oil, sprinkle salt, and lay lemon slices and dill on top. After 20 minutes in the oven, dinner is ready!

A pro tip is to experiment with different veggies. Sometimes, I add cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor. If I want more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works wonders.

This one-pan salmon dinner can be easily adapted for different diets. Using a vegan substitute like tofu can give a similar taste experience.

I love how versatile and straightforward this meal is!

4. Sicilian Eggplant and Tomato Bake

I love making this Sicilian Eggplant and Tomato Bake on busy weeknights. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with flavor. The sweetness of roasted eggplant pairs perfectly with tangy tomatoes.

Cooking time is about 45 minutes, and it’s an easy recipe that anyone can follow.

Ingredients:

• 1 large eggplant, sliced
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.

2. Layer the sliced eggplant in the dish. Sprinkle with salt and let it sit for 10 minutes to pull out moisture.

3. Rinse and pat the eggplant dry. Drizzle olive oil over the top and mix in the onion, garlic, olives, and capers.

4. Spread the diced tomatoes evenly over the mixture. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggplant is tender and golden brown.

Pro Tips:

For added flavor, try adding parmesan cheese on top before baking. You can also replace eggplant with zucchini if you prefer.

I often serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

This dish is one of my go-to recipes for a healthy dinner that doesn’t take much time to prepare!

5. Mediterranean Shrimp and Orzo

I love making Mediterranean Shrimp and Orzo for a quick and tasty dinner. It’s full of vibrant flavors and comes together in about 30 minutes. This dish always reminds me of summer nights by the sea.

The cooking process is simple. I start by sautéing shrimp with garlic and spices. The shrimp adds a nice, juicy texture, while orzo offers a comforting, pasta-like bite.

For this recipe, I use:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.

Next, I toss in the garlic and oregano, cooking for another minute. Then, I add the orzo and cherry tomatoes, pouring in 2 cups of water. I let it simmer until the orzo is tender.

To finish, I sprinkle feta on top. You can adjust any seasonings to your taste!

For a fun twist, I sometimes swap shrimp for chicken or even add spinach for extra greens.

I love serving this dish with crusty bread to soak up the flavors!

Using my favorite non-stick skillet makes cooking even easier.

6. Spanakopita Chicken Skillet

I love making a Spanakopita Chicken Skillet on busy weeknights. This dish brings the flavors of traditional Greek spanakopita into a quick one-pan meal. With savory chicken, spinach, and feta cheese, it has a deliciously creamy and tangy taste.

The estimated cooking time is about 30 minutes, and it’s a beginner-friendly recipe. I found this so easy the first time I tried it!

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 8 ounces frozen spinach, thawed
• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken, salt, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook until chicken is no longer pink, about 7 minutes.
2. Stir in spinach, feta, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Serve warm. I love to pair it with a side of rice or just enjoy it on its own.

For a healthier option, you can swap chicken for turkey or use a non-dairy cheese alternative.

This dish also works great cooked in an air fryer!

If you’re looking for cookware, my favorite skillet can be found here. It helps make clean-up a breeze!

7. Greek Meatballs with Tzatziki

I love making Greek meatballs with tzatziki because they are perfect for any occasion. These flavorful meatballs are easy to prepare and are great for a family dinner or a fun gathering.

The cooking time is about 30 minutes, and they are simple to make. The blend of spices like oregano and garlic gives them a rich flavor. Plus, the creamy tzatziki sauce adds a refreshing touch.

For the ingredients, I usually use:

• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the tzatziki: 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1 cucumber (grated), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp lemon juice, and fresh dill.

To make these meatballs, first, I preheat the oven to 400°F. Then, in a bowl, I mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until combined.

I shape them into balls and place them on a baking sheet.

For the tzatziki, I mix the yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, and dill. I let it sit in the fridge while the meatballs bake for 20 minutes.

For a twist, I often swap the beef for ground chicken or turkey. I also love serving these with pita bread or over a Greek salad. Enjoy these Mediterranean delights anytime!

8. Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine

I love making Moroccan Spiced Vegetable Tagine when I want something warming and delicious. The blend of spices is what really brings this dish to life. It’s a one-pan meal that packs a punch with flavors like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.

This recipe is great because it’s simple to cook and offers a medley of colorful veggies. You can make it in about 40 minutes, and it’s easy enough for anyone to try.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 can chickpeas, drained
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft.
2. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, zucchini, and carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add chickpeas, diced tomatoes, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and bring to a simmer.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Pro Tips:

You can swap chickpeas for lentils if you prefer. For a spicier kick, add a chopped chili pepper. Serve it over couscous or rice for a heartier meal. Cooking in a tagine adds an authentic touch, but any heavy pot works well too.

I love to enjoy this dish with crusty bread for dipping. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect any day of the week!

9. Lemon Herb Couscous with Chickpeas

I love making Lemon Herb Couscous with Chickpeas because it’s quick, flavorful, and so satisfying. The bright lemon and fresh herbs really bring the dish to life. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and is super easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You only need a few simple ingredients that I often have on hand.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup couscous
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

To make it, start by boiling the vegetable broth. Once it’s bubbling, add the couscous and remove it from the heat, covering it to let it steam for about 5 minutes.

After that, fluff the couscous and mix in the chickpeas, lemon zest, juice, olive oil, herbs, and season with salt and pepper.

For an extra twist, you can add some sautéed garlic or top it with roasted vegetables. It’s delicious as a side or a main dish.

I often make this versatile recipe for lunch or dinner. It’s great warm or cold, making it perfect for meal prep. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean right at home!

Benefits of One-Pan Dinners

One-pan dinners offer great advantages for busy lifestyles. They save time and require less cleanup, making cooking stress-free and enjoyable. Here’s what I love about them.

Time-Saving Cooking

Cooking a meal can often take longer than we expect. With one-pan dinners, I can prepare flavorful dishes with minimal hassle. Most recipes involve simply tossing ingredients into a single pan, which means I spend less time cooking and more time enjoying my meal.

Many one-pan meals come together in 30 to 50 minutes. I can quickly chop veggies, season proteins, and toss everything together.

As it cooks, I can tidy up or set the table. The efficiency of one-pan cooking makes it easy to whip up a healthy dinner even on my busiest nights.

Minimal Cleanup

Cleaning up after cooking can be a major chore. One of the best parts of one-pan dinners is the minimal cleanup required. Since the ingredients are cooked in just one pan, I only have to wash that, along with a cutting board and knife.

This keeps my kitchen tidy and saves me time. I appreciate having fewer dishes to wash, especially after a long day. I can simply enjoy my meal, knowing cleanup will be quick and easy. One-pan dinners make cooking a lot more enjoyable for me!

Understanding Mediterranean Ingredients

Mediterranean ingredients are rich in flavor and nutrition, making meals both delicious and healthy. I focus on key staples and their health benefits, which can greatly improve my cooking and dining experience.

Staples of the Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet includes a variety of staples that are essential for creating tasty and healthy meals. Some key ingredients I often use are:

• Olive Oil: Known for its heart-healthy fats, it adds flavor and richness to dishes.
• Whole Grains: Foods like quinoa, barley, and whole wheat pasta are my go-to choices for fiber and energy.
• Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh produce, such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and leafy greens, keep my meals colorful and packed with vitamins.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas provide plant-based protein and fiber, making meals satisfying.
• Fish and Poultry: Lean options like salmon and chicken are my favorites for healthy protein sources.

These staples make it easy to create balanced, flavorful dishes.

Health Properties of Key Ingredients

The ingredients I use from the Mediterranean diet come with numerous health benefits. Here are a few that stand out to me:

• Olive Oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats, it supports heart health and can reduce inflammation.
• Fruits and Vegetables: They are packed with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support overall health.
• Legumes: High in protein and fiber, these foods help with digestion and may aid in weight management.
• Fish: Fatty fish like salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for brain health.

By focusing on these ingredients, I can enjoy meals that are not only delicious but also beneficial for my health.