Best Mediterranean Appetizers

Get ready for a tasty journey with my curated list of the best Mediterranean appetizers! From whipped feta and falafels to Greek salad skewers and grilled seafood, dive into easy and yummy recipes that bring the best of places like Greece, Italy, Turkey and Spain right to your kitchen.

Jump directly to:

• 🍢 Skewers
• 🥗 Salads
• 🍆Vegetables
• 🍗 Meat & Seafood
• 🥑 Dips
• 🍕Breads & Grains
• 🧆 Antipasto & Mezze

Mediterranean cuisine is famed for its vibrant, fresh ingredients and a perfect balance of herbs and spices. From the zesty lemon and olive oil of Greek dishes to the aromatic spices of Moroccan cuisine, these appetizers are a feast for the senses.

This collection of appetizers is your gateway to experiencing the light and nourishing fare that Mediterranean countries are famous for. Think of Greece’s famous Tzatziki, a creamy yogurt and cucumber dip, or Italy’s Bruschetta, with ripe tomatoes on grilled bread, kissed by olive oil and garlic.

Spain brings the fun with Patatas Bravas while Turkey deligh swith its Meze platter, featuring an assortment of small, flavourful dishes like stuffed grape leaves and spicy Ezme.

I hope you enjoy these Mediterranean appetizers. I’ve included calories, protein and carbs per serving to make it easier to choose what suits your dietary needs.

👉 Check out my other collections: 🫒 Vegetarian appetizers, 🌮 Mexican appetizers, 🍤 seafood appetizers, 🛞 pinwheel sandwiches, 🥐 puff pastry appetizers, 🍣 Asian appetizers, 🍗Paleo appetizers.

Skewers

Zucchini Feta Skewers

Zucchini Feta Skewers from The Mediterranean Dish with marinated feta is a gluten-free appetizer recipe that’s easy, elegant, and festive enough for any dinner party.

Calories (per skewer): 121

Protein: 6.6 g

Carbs: 3.2 g

Get the recipe here

Mediterranean Antipasto Skewers

Mediterranean skewers are a total crowd-pleaser at a party. They are colourful and offer your guests a wide variety of flavours and textures; from the turkey to the olives, to the fresh mozzarella balls. Recipe from A Cedar Spoon.

Get the recipe here

Beef Kofta Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce

These kebabs (or skewers) from The Foodie Physician are packed with protein and bursting with flavour. Present them on a platter accompanied by an assortment of fresh vegetables, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce and your guests will think you’re a culinary rockstar!
Calories (per kofta + sauce): 120
Protein: 13.5 g
Carbs: 2 g

Get the recipe here

Vegetable & Halloumi Kebabs

Not only are these vegetable and halloumi skewers great for BBQ or summer parties, they are also fabulous as finger food or an appetizer. Recipe from Hungry Healthy Happy.

Calories (per skewer): 155

Protein: 8 grams

Carbs: 6.5 grams

Get the recipe here

Grilled Shrimp Kabobs, Mediterranean-Style

Juicy, flavour-packed shrimp kabobs, tossed in a marinade with garlic, fresh herbs and spices; grilled to perfection!
Calories (per skewer): 130
Protein: 15 g
Carbs: 0.6 g

Get the recipe here

Salads

Mozzarella Salad With Balsamic Tomatoes

This bruschetta-inspired fresh mozzarella salad with balsamic tomatoes and basil are gorgeous, delicious and perfect as an appetizer.

Calories: 347 (per generous portion)

Protein: 28 grams

Carbs: 13 grams

Get the recipe here

Greek Tabbouleh Salad

Tabbouleh is a grain-based salad with variations all over the Med. This Greek version features a base of bulgur wheat and the addition of fresh dill. A Lebanese version may be heavier on the parsley. From A Cedar Spoon.

Calories (per 6-person serving): 250

Protein: 5 grams

Carbs: 20 grams

Get the recipe here

Tomato Ricotta Salad With Gremolata

Italian-inspired salad with sweet, nutritious tomatoes are topped with creamy ricotta and sea salt and zesty gremolata with lemon zest and a touch of garlic. Vegetarian, low-carb, gluten-free.

Calories: 190

Protein: 8 g

Carbs: 7 g

Get the recipe here

Greek Potato Salad

There is regional flair to every potato salad recipe, and this one takes inspiration from Greece with a simple and tangy vinegar and oil dressing and fresh dill to finish off the flavour. From Recipes from Europe.

Calories (per serving): 338

Protein: 4 grams

Carbs: 33 grams

Get the recipe here

Horiatiki (Greek Village) Pasta Salad

Similar to potato salad, there exists a wide array of techniques for crafting a delectable pasta salad. This dish combines crisp vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, all harmoniously dressed with feta cheese and aromatic herbs to achieve that timeless Greek flavour. Omit the pasta for a low-carb option. From The Lemon Apron.

Calories (per serving): 465

Protein: 8 grams

Carbs: 21 grams

Get the recipe here

Turkish Ezme Salad

Ezme is a classic Turkish appetizer. It's a spicy salad dip, almost like a salsa that’s usually served on the side of kebabs with some fresh bread. It’s ready in 10 minutes. Recipe from Unicorns In The Kitchen.

Calories: 87

Protein: 2 g

Carbs: 10 g

Get the recipe here

Vegetables

Kolokithokeftedes (Crispy Zucchini Fritters)

Kolokithokeftedes (crispy zucchini fritters) Fresh mint and feta give these crispy golden fritters their exceptional Greek flavour. These are perfect for dipping into tzatziki or whipped feta. From Real Greek Recipes.

Calories (per fritter): 77

Protein: 2 grams

Carbs: 3 grams

Get the recipe here

Mediterranean Roasted Artichokes

Artichokes are a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. Roast ‘em with sun dried tomatoes, capers, feta, and herbs for an easy recipe using canned artichokes for ease. From Midwest Foodie Blog.

Calories (per serving): 211

Protein: 9 grams

Carbs: 33 grams

Get the recipe here

Patatas Bravas

Patatas bravas are one of the simplest and most popular Spanish tapas. Learn how to make them at home with this quick and easy recipe from Spanish Sabores.

Calories (per serving): 200

Protein: 4.7 g

Cabrs: 38 g

Get the recipe here

Cheesy Appetizers

Whipped Feta With Roasted Tomatoes & Garlic

Feta has exceptional flavour. In this recipe, it’s accentuated with sweet roasted tomatoes and caramelised roasted garlic, perfect for mopping up with crusty bread or pita.

Calories (per serving): 193

Protein: 5.3 grams

Carbs: 6 grams

Get the recipe here

Hot Honey Roasted Feta

Don’t underestimate the power of cheese. This recipe brings out the goodness in a block of feta with a little heat and a generous drizzle of honey, perfect as a centerpiece for your mezze. You can sub out feta with halloumi for similar results. From My Kitchen Little.

Calories (per recipe): 1,430

Protein: 20 grams

Carbs: 109 grams

Get the recipe here

Labneh

Labneh is a Lebanese cream cheese spread made with yoghurt. You can serve it with za’atar and olive oil to keep things simple or a wide variety of complementary toppings such as roasted veggies, fig and herbs, toasted nuts, and so much more. From Fig and Olive Platter.

Calories (per recipe): 617

Protein: 34 grams

Carbs: 57 grams

Get the recipe here

Meat & Seafood

Kreatopita (Greek Meat Pie)

These meat pies will disappear as quickly as you set them out. Flaky phyllo crust encases a succulent blend of mushrooms and ground beef for a hearty starter. From The Hungry Bites.

Calories (per serving): 397

Protein: 23 grams

Carbs: 27 grams

Get the recipe here

Greek Dolmades with Avgolemono Sauce

You may know these as dolmas or stuffed grape leaves. This recipe has vegetarian adaptations, but is traditionally served stuffed with ground beef. Top it off with this creamy lemon sauce – like a Greek hollandaise – to steal the show. From Binge Worthy Bites.

Calories (per roll, with sauce): 105

Protein: 2 grams

Carbs: 3 grams

Get the recipe here

French Salmon Tartare

Salmon Tartare is a show-stopping, crowd-pleasing salmon recipe that is ready in under 10 minutes! No cooking and lots of flavour! Recipe from Two Purple Figs.

Get the recipe here

Easy Calamari With Garlic Lime Sauce

Calamari is something you’ll find regularly exploring the Mediterranean coast. You can always batter and fry it, but this recipe is light and fresh with a zesty garlic and citrus sauce to serve. From The Mediterranean Dish,

Calories (per serving): 282

Protein: 18.5 grams

Carbs: 9.2 grams

Get the recipe here

Arayes (Middle Eastern Stuffed Pita)

Like the Greek meat pies, this recipe features a savoury beef filling. Instead of phyllo dough, use fresh pita. From Hungry Paprikas.

Calories (per serving): 156

Protein: 10 grams

Carbs: 13 grams

Get the recipe here

Baked Kibbeh (Kibbeh Bil Sanieh)

Indulge in the delicious world of Lebanese cuisine with this baked kibbeh recipe. A symphony of ground meat, cracked wheat, and aromatic spices offers a taste of warmth and tradition in every bite. From Cooking with Mima.

Calories (per serving): 388

Protein: 33 grams

Carbs: 8 grams

Get the recipe here

Dips

Traditional Lebanese Hummus

If you’ve never made your own hummus, it’s a must! It’s exceptionally easy, budget-friendly, and worlds better than store-bought. From Sinful Kitchen.

Calories (per serving): 25

Protein: 1 gram

Carbs: 1 gram

Get the recipe here

Authentic Tzatziki Sauce

Tzatziki is a creamy yoghurt-based sauce often served as a mezze which is a selection of appetizers. This dip is a Mediterranean classic, packed with protein, and downright delicious with veggies, bread, or as a dressing. From The Greek Foodie.

Calories (per serving): 80

Protein: 5 grams

Carbs: 4 grams

Get the recipe here

Taramasalata (Greek Fish Roe Dip)

Dips are kind of a thing in Mediterranean cuisine which leaves no shortage of awesome appetizer selections. This fish roe dip, blended with olive oil and lemon, is a delicacy. From Souvlaki for the Soul.

Calories (per serving): 170

Protein: 9 grams

Carbs: 3 grams

Get the recipe here

Classic French Salmon Rillettes

Made with both poached as well as smoked salmon, these salmon rillettes are an easy-to-make yet elegant spread, with big flavour! They deliver a chunky texture with a rich smoky taste from the salmon. Recipe from Pardon Your French.

Get the recipe here

Melitzanosalata (Greek Eggplant Dip)

This dip channels the spirit of baba ghanoush, featuring a creamy roasted eggplant base. What sets it apart is the undeniable star power of the eggplant, embracing its charred brilliance and unique texture without any distractions. From Eating European.

Calories (per serving): 151

Protein: 1 gram

Carbs: 7 grams

Get the recipe here

Muhammara (Roasted Red Pepper Dip)

This Muhammara dip recipe boasts a luscious blend of red pepper goodness, enhanced by the nutty richness of walnuts, which perfectly complement its sweet and spicy undertones. From The Mediterranean Dish.

Calories (per serving): 200

Protein: 5.5 grams

Carbs: 20 grams

Get the recipe here

Lebanese Baba Ghanoush

This creamy eggplant dip is a common menu item in Mediterranean haunts across the globe. Make your own for optimal dipping potential with this traditional Lebanese version. From The Perfect Tide.

Calories (per serving): 100

Protein: 2.5 grams

Carbs: 11.5 grams

Get the recipe here

Breads & Grains

Pita Bread

You need something to scoop up all those tasty dips with. Enter the homemade pita bread. Of course you could opt for store bought, but this simple recipe may change your mind. From Tastes Better from Scratch.

Calories (per serving): 156

Protein: 5 grams

Carbs: 29 grams

Get the recipe here

Authentic Spanakopita

An authentic Spanakopita recipe is a delightful Greek classic, featuring layers of flaky phyllo pastry embracing a savory filling of spinach, feta cheese, and aromatic herbs. Baked to a golden perfection, it's a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean flavours and hospitality. From Cooking for Keeps.

Calories (per serving): 208

Protein: 4.5 grams

Carbs: 13 grams

Get the recipe here

Cauliflower Rice Arancini

Elevate the classic arancini recipe to a healthier level with gluten-free cauliflower rice and bread crumbs, transforming these Italian delights into lighter fare. Crispy on the outside and brimming with savoury goodness inside, these arancini offer a delicious twist on tradition while catering to all audiences. From Lean Green Nutrition Fiend.

Calories (per recipe): 2,300

Protein: 110 grams

Carbs: 130 grams

Get the recipe here

Homemade Falafel

Everyone loves falafel. This traditionally plant-based fritter can be fried or baked. Many people opt to make it from a box mix, but you won’t regret trying your hand at making them from scratch! From Cooking with Ayeh.

Calories (per serving, before frying): 77

Protein: 74 grams

Carbs: 13 grams

Get the recipe here

Antipasto & Mezze Platter Ideas

Italian Antipasto Platter with Anchovy Vinaigrette

A Mediterranean-inspired charcuterie board is incomplete without the salt, brine, and smoke in a classic collection of antipasto favourites. Serve with pita and your choice of dips.From Our Salty Kitchen.

Calories (per serving): 191

Protein: 7 grams

Carbs: 4 grams

Get the recipe here

Greek Mezze Platter

The mezze is highly customisable using many of the dips, breads, and appetizers featured here today. This recipe combines a tempting array of selections to create a stunning board of seriously good eats. From Hungry Healthy Happy.

Calories (per serving): 1077

Protein: 62 grams

Carbs: 89 grams

Get the recipe here

Italian Antipasto Platter

This antipasto platter is a combination of Italian meats, cheeses, vegetables and breads, all arranged to create a fabulous appetizer display. The perfect showpiece for any gathering, and it takes just minutes to put together! From Dinner At The Zoo.

Get the recipe here

French Cheese & Charcuterie Board

Learn how to make this charcuterie board using the best fromage. Impress your guests with brie, comté & french-inspired accoutrements. From Ain't Too Proud To Meg.

Get the recipe here

Turkish-Inspired Mezze Party Platter

Loaded up with hummus, baba ganoush, marinated feta, tzatziki, tomato rice salad, muhammara, za’atar pita chips, sliced veggies, and nuts, this mezze platter is the perfect spread of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours.

Get the recipe here

Greek Mezze Platter V2

Another delicious Greek mezze platter from Simply Delicious Food filled with pita bread, dips, fresh vegetables and cheese is the perfect way to feed a crowd and perfect for entertaining.

Get the recipe here