The Mediterranean diet has always been hailed as one of the healthiest ways to eat, providing nutrients and vitamins and resulting in a longer life span. The Mediterranean is considered to be the area around the Mediterranean sea, and it consists of many countries, from Greece to Spain to Italy. Although the cuisines of these many countries vary, the Mediterranean diet, in general, is full of veggies, fruit, whole grains, healthy fats, and fish. It also involves drinking red wine with friends and exercising regularly. Here are 12 Mediterranean diet snacks to transport you to the sunshine and blue waters of the Mediterranean!
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1. Zucchini Chips
These are ideal as a snackable, low-calorie treat. Since vegetables are a large part of the Mediterranean diet philosophy, many of its recipes are full of delicious veggies like zucchini, tomato and cucumber. These chips are flavored with a harissa spice blend and dipped in tzatziki sauce, a creamy, garlicky Greek yogurt sauce.
Get the recipe here.
2. Crispy Roasted Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean food, featured in hummus, tahini sauce and salads. It turns out they are also delicious on their own as a tasty, protein-packed snack. Flavor them with paprika, curry powder, or whatever spices you desire. Drizzle with olive oil and bake until golden brown. These crispy, baked legumes are yummy on their own or added to bowls or sandwiches.
Get the recipe here.
3. Pistachios
Another important ingredient in this healthy diet is nuts! From almonds to pistachios to cashews, nuts are considered the perfect Mediterranean snack. Pistachios are full of health benefits, containing fiber, protein, healthy fats and antioxidants, and they're as tasty as they are healthy. This easy snack is good for an on-the-go option- just grab a handful or two and you'll be full and energized for the next few hours!
4. Hummus
Hummus is found in many Mediterranean recipes, beloved for its versatility and flavor. This dip is ideal for snacking, and you can dip a variety of things in it for a tasty snack. Go for fresh vegetables like carrots, sliced bell pepper, or cucumbers. If you're in the mood for something else, pita chips, pita bread or whole wheat toast are also healthy options. This low-carb snack is ideal for weight loss and easy snacking.
Get the recipe here.
5. Kale Chips
One of the tenements of the Mediterranean diet is eating more fruits and veggies. Kale is one of the best vegetables to go for, as it's packed with iron, antioxidants, and vitamin C. These chips are yummy and crispy, flavored simply with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt. They are also incredibly easy to make, perfect for a simple snack.
Get the recipe here.
6. Granola
Granola is already a popular healthy snack in America and Europe, but it turns out that this also fits into the Mediterranean diet! Since most granola contains nuts and dried fruit, it's full of protein, nutrients and vitamins that boost your immune system and keep you going until your next meal. Add your own favorite flavors like chocolate, peanut butter chips or coconut flakes to make a delectable batch of granola.
Get the recipe here.
7. Apple and Peanut Butter
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Eating a snack of apple slices and peanut butter is an excellent way to incorporate the Mediterranean diet into your meal plan. Apples are known to be filling and promote good gut bacteria, while peanut butter is a great source of protein and lowers bad cholesterol. This snack option is great for tasty and healthy eating.
8. Olive Oil and Za'atar
Za'atar is a delicious spice mixture of wild thyme and sesame seeds, and it's featured in many Mediterranean recipes. This tangy, flavorful spice mix is even better when paired with high-quality olive oil. For this indulgent yet healthy snack, dip pita bread or whole wheat toast into extra virgin olive oil, and then dip it into the za'atar. You'll never go back to plain olive oil again! You can buy za'atar online on Amazon!
9. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
This salad is full of classic Mediterranean flavors. Consisting of Feta cheese, Kalamata olives, red onion, cucumber, tomato, and lemon, it's hard to find something as flavorful and refreshing as this Mediterranean diet recipe. This is perfect as a summery side dish for fish or a great snack to provide energy between meals!
Get the recipe here.
10. Mediterranean Tomato Cucumber Salad
This simple but delicious salad, called Salata, is central to Eastern Mediterranean cuisine. A traditional recipe, this is what many other salads originated from. The main ingredients are tomato, cucumber and parsley, which are then flavored with lemon juice, sumac and olive oil. For a super tasty and easy snack, this salad will not disappoint.
Get the recipe here.
11. Greek Yogurt With Fresh Fruit
Greek yogurt is another go-to for followers of this healthy diet. Greek yogurt is not only tangy and snackable, it's also rich in calcium, vitamin B-112, and probiotics. Because of this, it improves gut health and boosts the immune system. Add in some fresh berries, mango and banana and you have the perfect snack. If you go for the original flavor without added sugar, drizzling some honey on top adds a yummy touch of sweetness.
12. Mini Greek Pita Pizzas
For an adorable and tasty snack idea, these mini pizzas are the way to go. 2.5-inch pita pizzas are the base, with yummy Greek flavors like feta cheese and Kalamata olives as toppings. Enjoy these as an appetizer or a mid-day snack. These are also a fun snack idea to make with kids, and you can make them your own by adding your favorite toppings!
Get the recipe here.
