20 Simple Gluten and Dairy-Free Mediterranean Diet Recipes (2024)

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Here is a compilation of 20 easy and delicious gluten and dairy-free Mediterranean diet-inspired recipes along with some tips to help you eat more plants, better food, and feel better inside and out.

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Since I started this food blogging journey in 2017, I've mainly been after one thing - how to balance my gut health with food and bring what I discover to you. And while I've experimented with numerous variations of gluten and dairy-free living, including paleo, keto, and low-carb, one phrase continued to stick with me from the moment I read it: "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants" - Michael Pollan. A simple concept, if you think about it, but in our seemingly never-ending supply of artificial food, that may be a lot easier said than done.

Though, one lifestyle that I've been drawn to, (perhaps even without realizing it) is the Mediterranean way of eating, which very much aligns with that concept. I hesitate to call it the Mediterranean diet, although that is the actual coined term, because, to me, a diet symbolizes deprivation - taking on a negative connotation. So I'm using "lifestyle" as well as "diet" interchangeably because this is a way of living rather than a quick, temporary fix.

However, if you want to go the extra step in taking charge of your health, I highly recommend usingLasta Meal Planning Appto customize meal plans in order to achieve your health and weight loss goals.

In today's post, I want to share some of my favorite Mediterranean-inspired recipes, but before that, let's dive a little into what the Mediterranean way of eating actually involves.

*All opinions are my own and should not be used as medical advice.

Staple Foods Of The Mediterranean Diet

While I'm a firm believer in not being awfully rigid with anything (aside from gluten and dairy, of course), these are some basic foods that are staples when following a Mediterranean way of eating.

  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Whole grains like quinoa, rice, and oatmeal
  • Vegetables, fresh (strong focus on seasonal and local) and frozen
  • Fruits, fresh (strong focus on seasonal and local) and frozen
  • Beans and lentils
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Spices
  • Herbs (fresh and dried)
  • Fish and seafood, canned and frozen are okay
  • Wine in moderation

Foods To Eat In Moderation

According to the Mediterranean Diet Pyramid, these are the foods to eat in moderation:

  • Poultry
  • Eggs
  • Meats
  • Sweets

Some Basic Concepts Of The Mediterranean Diet

  • Make vegetables the main part of your meal
  • Use extra virgin olive oil as your primary source of fat
  • Add a green salad to your meal
  • Swap processed snacks for nuts and seeds
  • Trade sodas and juices for water
  • Drink wine primarily with your meals (If you don't drink, do not start)
  • Eat processed meats occasionally
  • Keep meat portions to about 4 ounces per serving
  • Eat fruit for dessert
  • Incorporate movement into your life every day

The Gluten And Diary-Free Version Of The Mediterranean Diet

As gluten and dairy are part of the traditional Mediterranean diet, the recipes you will find here are 100% gluten and dairy-free so you can rest assured that changing the diet a little bit will not vary all too much from the classic.

With that said, let's get right to the recipes.

20 Simple Gluten and Dairy-Free Mediterranean Recipes

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Lemon Shrimp with Asparagus and Cauliflower Rice

Lemon Shrimp with Asparagus and Cauliflower Riceis super simple to make, low carb, and makes for a quick 20-minute weeknight dinner.

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Gut Friendly Lemon Garlic Hummus

This gut-friendly lemon garlic hummus is light and lemony and made with soaked chickpeas which are easier to digest.

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Salad Nicoise

Salad Nicoise may just be the most perfect salad ever invented! It’s protein-rich, flavorful, and packed with vegetables. A healthy lunch or dinner any time of year.

Crispy Roasted Chickpeas are rich in nutrients, spices, and full of flavor. They’re a perfect snack that’s easy to make and delicious.

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Grilled Radicchio Salad with Fennel and Soft Boiled Egg

Grilled Radicchio Salad with Fennel and Soft Boiled Egg makes a perfect lunch or light dinner when you’re in the mood for something different. This salad is whole 30, paleo, and vegetarian.

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Easy Mediterranean Lemon Tahini Dressing (Keto, Vegan, Low-FODMAP)

Here is a customizable, quick, and versatileMediterranean Lemon Tahini Dressingwith just a few ingredients. It’s keto, vegan, and low-FODMAP.

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Simple Breakfast Quinoa Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Here is a super simple Breakfast Quinoa Recipe you can make in just 2 minutes or prep in advance the night before and let it sit overnight.

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Spaghetti with Olive Tapenade, Tomatoes and Herbs

Spaghetti with Olive Tapenade, Tomatoes and Herbs is a quick dinner you can have on the table in 10 minutes. It’s simple to make, vegan, grain-free, and delicious.

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Grilled Vegetables with Balsamic and Basil (Vegan, Paleo, Keto)

TheseGrilled Vegetables with Balsamic and Basilare light and flavorful, healthy, and pair well with just about any main dish. They’re also vegan, keto, paleo, and whole 30.

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Polenta with Mushrooms, Kale, and Dijon Roasted Carrots

A super simple creamy polenta recipe with a tasty mushroom, kale, and red onion sauce, along with dijon brushed roasted carrots. It’s vegan, gluten and dairy-free.

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Heirloom Roasted Carrots with a Simple Lemon Tahini Dressing

When you want a special yet simple side, these Heirloom Roasted Carrots with a Simple Lemon Tahini Dressing can spruce up any dinner table.

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Super Green Detoxifying Parsley and Cilantro Smoothie

This naturally energizing detoxifying super green parsley and cilantro smoothie is full of nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants.

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Tuna Salad with Apple, Dill and Lemon Vinaigrette

This simple tuna salad makes a perfect protein-rich lunch.

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Moroccan Chickpea Tagine with Preserved Lemons

Moroccan Chickpea Tagine with Preserved Lemonsis a light stew that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s sweet, salty, aromatic, and mouthwatering!

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Zucchini Rutabaga Fritters (Paleo, Whole 30, Low-Carb Option)

Zucchini Rutabaga Fritters are super easy to make, delicious, light and make for an easy main dish or side.

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Moms Easy And Nourishing Vegetable Soup

This easy vegetable soup is the perfect way to stay hydrated, improve digestion and get a dose of nutrients.

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Sweet Potatoes with Kale and Caramelized Onions

All you need to create this wonderful, delicious side dish are sweet potatoes, kale, and onions. It’s a perfect side dish with your favorite meat, fish, or simply topped with a tasty over-easy egg. This is one I have on repeat in my house!

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Easy Fermented Vegetables With Just Salt And Water

Easy Fermented vegetables are the ideal probiotic-rich companion for any meal and easy to make at home. All you need is water, salt, and vegetables.

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Best Cannelini Bean Salad with Tuna and Artichoke Hearts

Here is an easy Cannelini Bean Salad with Tuna and Artichoke Hearts recipe that requires mostly pantry items. It’s quick, delicious, nutritious, and filling.

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Easy Fish Taco Bowl with Mango Salsa

A delicious and simplefish taco bowl with mango salsathat’s fresh and light and perfect for any weeknight.

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20 Simple Gluten and Dairy-Free Mediterranean Diet Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Can you do the Mediterranean diet gluten and dairy free? ›

As gluten and dairy are part of the traditional Mediterranean diet, the recipes you will find here are 100% gluten and dairy-free so you can rest assured that changing the diet a little bit will not vary all too much from the classic.

What are the 2 most recognized ingredients in Mediterranean diet? ›

A true Mediterranean diet is characterized by:
  • High Consumption of Olive Oil: A primary source of healthy monounsaturated fats.
  • Abundance of Fruits and Vegetables: Provides vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
  • Whole Grains: Emphasis on whole grains over refined grains.
Oct 27, 2023

Can I eat gluten free pasta on a Mediterranean diet? ›

For someone wishing to combine a gluten free diet with a Mediterranean approach, this will mean going big on rice, legumes, vegetables, fruit and nuts, and replacing traditional bread, pasta and couscous with gluten free alternatives.

What happens when you cut out gluten and dairy? ›

The common reasons are better digestion and faster weight loss. It may also lead to a significant improvement in their energy and mood. You need to be careful about the hidden dairy and gluten content in various products that you may consume on a daily basis. Keep reading to know how to go dairy and gluten free.

What milk is OK on Mediterranean diet? ›

A little goes a long way. Milk is not traditionally part of a Mediterranean diet. If you're new to this way of eating and are struggling to cut down your dairy, you can substitute it with unsweetened almond or soy milk, since nuts and legumes are staples of the diet.

What is not allowed on Mediterranean diet? ›

The Mediterranean diet prohibits the consumption of processed foods, refined sugars, refined grains, and trans fats. Additionally, the diet limits the intake of red meat and high-fat dairy products. In addition, the consumption of alcohol is restricted, with the exception of red wine, which you can have in moderation.

How many eggs per week on Mediterranean diet? ›

Eggs: Limit egg yolks to 4 per week. Egg whites can be eaten in unlimited amounts.

What is a typical Mediterranean breakfast? ›

Spain and Italy: toasted bread + soft cheese + fresh fruit or freshly squeezed fruit juice. Greece: paximadia (bread made from whole wheat, chickpea, and barley flour) + olives + cheese. Syria: tahini yogurt with chickpeas + pickles + sliced radishes. Morocco: fried egg in olive oil + soft cheese + olives + flatbread.

What are the worst foods for gluten intolerance? ›

In general, avoid the following foods if you have celiac disease: Cereals, breads, or other grain products that include wheat, rye, barley, or oats. This includes white or whole-wheat flour (including cookies, crackers, cakes, and most other baked goods), semolina, couscous, bread crumbs, most pastas, and malt.

What are 5 ingredients to avoid in a gluten-free diet? ›

Avoid all foods and drinks containing the following:
  • Wheat.
  • Barley.
  • Rye.
  • Triticale — a cross between wheat and rye.
  • Oats, in some cases.

How do you get protein on the Mediterranean diet? ›

Legumes are a key source of plant-based protein in the Mediterranean diet; one cup of cooked beans, lentils or peas contains about 15 grams of protein — just under a quarter of the daily needs of an average adult.

Is the Mediterranean diet anti inflammatory? ›

Whereas the Mediterranean diet is an example of an anti-inflammatory diet, the Standard [North] American Diet (or SAD diet), which contains large amounts of calorically-dense processed foods, saturated fat, and added sugar, is pro-inflammatory and associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death [3-6] ...

Is wheat bread OK on Mediterranean diet? ›

You can still enjoy bread as part of the Mediterranean Diet, just swap your white bread for whole grains. Whole grain breads and pastas contain more fiber, vitamins and minerals.

Can you be dairy free on the Mediterranean diet? ›

Moderate amounts of dairy, poultry and eggs are part of the Mediterranean diet, as is seafood. In contrast, red meat is eaten only once in a while.

Can you do the Mediterranean diet without dairy? ›

This is the ideal meal plan for Dairy Free families looking to live a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle. Plenty of produce, olive oil, whole grains, seafood, and great food will have you looking and feeling your best! No milk, cheese, butter, or dairy of any kind.

What can I eat if I am gluten and dairy intolerance? ›

Foods that do not include gluten and dairy include chicken, fish, legumes, meat, fruits, vegetables, potatoes, rice, corn, and products specifically labels "gluten and dairy-free." Remove all gluten and dairy products from your home and shop for alternatives.

What does the Mediterranean diet say about dairy? ›

Eat moderate amounts of low-fat dairy products, such as milk, cheese, or yogurt. Eat moderate amounts of poultry and eggs. Choose healthy (unsaturated) fats, such as nuts, olive oil, and certain nut or seed oils like canola, soybean, and flaxseed.

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