32 Mediterranean Diet Dinners That Can Help Reduce Inflammation

Reviewed by Dietitian Madeline Peck, RDN, CDN
Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali

Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali

The Mediterranean diet is widely known as one of the healthiest eating patterns, thanks to ingredients like olive oil, whole grains, plant-based or lean protein and plenty of fruits and veggies. These dinner recipes highlight those ingredients, plus nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods like legumes, salmon and avocado for even more flavor and health benefits. Options like our Thai Sweet Chili Salmon Bowls and our Chicken Fajita Rice Bake will help you end the day with something healthy and tasty.

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Chopped Broccoli & Chickpea Salad

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong, Food Stylist: Ruth Skipworth.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong, Food Stylist: Ruth Skipworth.

This hearty broccoli-chickpea salad is packed with satisfying texture and flavor from tender chickpeas, crunchy almonds, sweet golden raisins and tangy feta cheese. A mash of feta forms the base of the creamy, lemony dressing, coating every bite.

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Thai Sweet Chili Salmon Bowls

Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali

Food: Sammy Mila, Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali

These Thai sweet chili salmon bowls are a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for two. For best results, use 1-inch-thick salmon pieces—thicker cuts may not cook fast enough, and the glaze can burn under the broiler. The salmon is served over fluffy rice with crisp coleslaw for crunch and balance. It’s a colorful bowl that hits all the sweet, spicy and savory notes.

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Marry Me White Bean Soup with Kale

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This creamy, flavor-packed white bean and kale soup, inspired by Marry Me Chicken, comes together quickly for a cozy weeknight meal. Sun-dried tomatoes plus the oil from the jar infuse the base with rich, savory depth, while fresh basil and Parmesan cheese add a bright and satisfying finish.

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High-Protein Butternut Squash & Lentil Soup

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer.

This hearty, plant-based soup is packed with protein from lentils and gets cozy flavors from warming spices like cinnamon, cumin and coriander. A swirl of tangy Greek-style yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finish each bowl with brightness and creaminess. Serve with lemon wedges for an extra pop of flavor.

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One-Pot High-Protein Chicken, Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Photographer: Stacy K. Allen, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee, Food Stylist: Amanda Holstein.

Photographer: Stacy K. Allen, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee, Food Stylist: Amanda Holstein.

This one-pot chicken, cabbage and white bean soup is the kind of meal you’ll want on repeat. A splash of lemon keeps the broth bright, and a dollop of basil pesto stirred in at the end adds rich, herby flavor that makes the soup taste special. Easy enough for weeknights and even better as leftovers, this soup proves that simple ingredients can still be delicious.

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Garlic Butter-Roasted Salmon with Beets & Broccoli

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle.

This is the No. 1 anti-inflammatory dinner to make tonight! Packed with omega-3-rich salmon, antioxidant-loaded beets and cruciferous broccoli, this sheet-pan meal fights inflammation while filling you up. Every bite is vibrant, nourishing and deeply satisfying—it’s a power-packed dinner that proves anti-inflammatory eating can be downright delicious.

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Kale & Sweet Potato Salad with Chicken

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This kale and sweet potato salad is a fresh and satisfying dinner. Roasted sweet potatoes, massaged kale and a creamy tahini dressing set the stage for a mix of feta, golden raisins and crunchy almonds. Shredded chicken makes it a satisfying main, but leftover turkey can be used in its place.

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Garlicky White Bean & Kale Stew with Lemon

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This lemony kale and white bean stew offers bright, hearty and comforting flavors all in one pot. Tender carrots, onion and kale simmer with creamy cannellini beans, some of which are mashed to thicken the broth. A sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley adds a fresh zesty finish. Serve with crusty bread on the side for a nourishing bowl that feels just right for chilly nights.

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Chicken Fajita Rice Bake

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This cheesy Chicken Fajita Rice Bake checks every box: bold flavor, hearty protein, plenty of veggies and minimal cleanup. Juicy chicken thighs mingle with a pantry-friendly mix of beans, tomatoes with green chiles and quick-cooking brown rice. A generous layer of melty cheese ties it all together. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that also doubles as a crowd-pleaser—you’ll want to keep this one on repeat.

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Maple-Mustard Salmon with Veggies

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

This maple-mustard salmon is a flavorful, no-fuss dinner that comes together on a single sheet pan. The salmon is coated in a sweet and tangy maple-mustard glaze that caramelizes beautifully as it broils. Surrounding the tender fish is a mix of seasonal vegetables, including broccoli and potatoes, that roast to perfection.

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Broccoli-Cheddar Butter Beans

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Hannah Greenwood.

These broccoli-cheddar butter beans are a cozy dish that will remind you of broccoli-cheddar soup, but in a convenient skillet. Tender butter beans add creaminess and plant-based protein, making the dish filling enough for a main course. Broccoli florets bring color, while sharp cheddar cheese melts in for that classic flavor. Everything comes together in one pan, creating a thick texture that’s perfect for scooping up with crusty bread.

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Salmon with Mango Salsa

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This Salmon with Mango Salsa is a bright and colorful dish perfect for waking up your taste buds! Buttery salmon is pan-seared until tender and flaky, then topped with a refreshing mango salsa with a touch of jalapeño for heat. A bed of coconut brown rice rounds out the meal.

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Easy White Bean Skillet

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This easy white bean skillet brings together pantry staples and fresh greens for a comforting plant-based meal. Sweet onion, tomatoes and garlic form a rich, savory base for creamy white beans. A handful of spinach adds freshness and color, and a sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together with salty richness. Served alongside toasted whole-wheat baguette slices for dipping, it’s a fast, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a simple weekend supper.

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Maple-Miso Chicken Thighs, Brussels Sprouts & Spaghetti Squash

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hausser.

This sheet-pan dinner brings together a trio of cold-weather favorites. Roasted spaghetti squash gets tossed with a maple-miso glaze that clings to each strand, creating a noodle-like base that’s topped with juicy chicken thighs and caramelized Brussels sprouts that are roasted alongside. Easy enough for a weeknight yet special enough for company, this sheet-pan wonder delivers cozy comfort with a fall, veggie-forward feel.

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Lemon-Turmeric Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Photographer: Ali Redmond. 

Photographer: Ali Redmond. 

This cozy soup turns humble ingredients into a bowl of golden comfort. Tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans simmer together with aromatic spices for warmth and depth, while a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens every spoonful. It’s light yet satisfying, full of fiber and antioxidants, and easy enough for a weeknight.

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Chickpea Casserole with Spinach & Feta

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Phoebe Hauser, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall.

This Chickpea Casserole is a cozy, one-pan meal that’s both hearty and wholesome. Tender spinach, nutty chickpeas and brown rice are bound together with a touch of cream cheese and finished with tangy feta. Fresh dill, nutmeg and lemon juice brighten the flavors, while a hint of red pepper adds gentle heat. Baked until bubbling and topped with lemon zest, it’s a dish that feels comforting yet vibrant.

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Sheet-Pan Salmon with Broccoli

Ali Redmond

Ali Redmond

Fresh, fast and full of flavor, this sheet-pan salmon with broccoli is a healthy weeknight winner. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support heart health. A zesty mix of lemon, garlic and olive oil brings brightness to both the tender salmon and the roasted broccoli. Everything roasts together quickly, so cleanup is minimal and dinner is on the table in no time.

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20-Minute Chickpea Soup

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Craig Huff, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.

Photographer: Robby Lozano, Food Stylist: Craig Huff, Prop Stylist: Abby Armstrong.

When dinner needs to happen fast, turn to this creamy chickpea soup that’s pulled together in just 20 minutes. Cream cheese melts right into this zesty soup for a velvety texture that feels cozy and comforting. Garnished with cilantro and crunchy tortilla strips, it’s a one-pot meal that’s weeknight-friendly and crowd-pleasing.

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Butternut Squash & Black Bean Enchilada Skillet

Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Josh Hoggle.

Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist Josh Hoggle.

This Butternut Squash & Black Bean Enchilada Skillet is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor. Tender cubes of butternut squash and hearty black beans are simmered in green enchilada sauce, with tortilla strips stirred in. As it cooks, the tortillas soak up the sauce. A layer of melted cheese ties everything together. It’s a satisfying, vegetarian-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

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High-Protein Caprese Chickpea Salad

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

This caprese chickpea salad is a fresh, protein- and fiber-packed, plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. It combines creamy mozzarella pearls, juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant fresh basil with hearty chickpeas for a satisfying dish. A simple balsamic vinaigrette ties everything together with a tangy-sweet finish. It’s quick to prepare, colorful and bursting with summery flavor.

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Salmon, Pesto & Tomato Pasta

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Shannon Goforth, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali.

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Shannon Goforth, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali.

This salmon, pesto and tomato pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The rich, flaky salmon pairs beautifully with sweet cherry tomatoes and pesto for a fresh and balanced dinner. Using store-bought pesto helps speed up prep without sacrificing flavor.

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Spanakopita-Inspired Skillet Beans

Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Isabelle Easter, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee

Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Isabelle Easter, Prop Stylist: Keoshia McGhee

Creamy, herbaceous and comforting, these skillet beans draw inspiration from spanakopita, the Greek spinach pie. Cannellini beans add plant-based protein and fiber to make this dinner filling while fresh dill, parsley and a squeeze of lemon provide brightness. Serve it straight from the skillet with multigrain pita chips for dipping.

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20-Minute Black Bean Soup

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.

This easy black bean soup takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Canned black beans help speed things up, and taco seasoning and fire-roasted tomatoes help build rich, savory flavor in just minutes. Cream cheese melted in at the end gives this soup a silky texture. Pair it with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a simple, comforting meal.

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Ginger-Dill Salmon with Cucumber & Avocado Salad

Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist Christina Daley

Photographer Victor Protasio, Food Stylist Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist Christina Daley

This ginger-dill salmon with cucumber and avocado salad is a light, refreshing meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Tender, flaky salmon is infused with the unusual combination of warm ginger and fresh dill, making it the perfect complement to the cool, creamy salad.

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Baked Feta, Tomato & White Bean Skillet

Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Marianne Williams, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

Photographer: Brittney Cottrell, Food stylist: Marianne Williams, Prop Stylist: Josh Hoggle

This Baked Feta, Tomato & White Bean Skillet is the perfect dish for scooping up with your favorite toasted whole-grain bread. Juicy cherry tomatoes burst as they roast, mingling with creamy white beans to create a flavorful base. Chunky pieces of feta cheese are nestled into the skillet and baked until warm and soft. The result is a savory, creamy mix with tangy bites of feta in every bite.

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Salmon Cakes with Tahini Slaw

Food: Sammy Mila Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali.

Food: Sammy Mila Photos: Jason Donnelly, Props: Breanna Ghazali.

These salmon cakes with slaw is a fresh meal for two that’s packed with flavor and crunch. Chopped salmon is mixed and coated in panko breadcrumbs, then gently pan-seared until golden and crispy on the outside. On the side, a crisp slaw tossed in a sweet tahini dressing adds a nutty-sweet contrast and plenty of texture.

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Chicken Guacamole Bowls

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless.

These chicken guacamole bowls are a simple, flavor-packed meal where juicy chicken thighs and colorful veggies roast together on a single sheet pan for easy prep and cleanup. The chicken and veggies are served over a fresh and creamy guacamole with a sprinkle of tangy cotija cheese. A squeeze of lime at the end brightens up the dish and ties all the bold, fresh flavors together.

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Spaghetti Squash Caprese

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Pheobe Hausser, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf.

Photographer: Morgan Hunt Ward, Prop Stylist: Pheobe Hausser, Food Stylist: Jennifer Wendorf.

This Spaghetti Squash Caprese is a fun twist on the classic Italian salad, combining traditional caprese salad ingredients with tender strands of roasted spaghetti squash. The squash is tossed with juicy plum tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant fresh basil and great northern beans for a boost of plant-based protein. A drizzle of balsamic glaze ties the dish together with a sweet-tangy finish.

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Chickpea Grain Bowl with Feta & Tomatoes

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Shannon Goforth, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali.

Photographer: Jake Sternquist, Food Stylist: Shannon Goforth, Prop Stylist: Breanna Ghazali.

This chickpea-farro grain bowl is a hearty dish that’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber and tons of fresh flavor. Farro, a whole grain with a nutty taste and chewy texture, forms the base and pairs perfectly with tender chickpeas and veggies. If you don’t have farro on hand, you can easily swap in quinoa, brown rice or barley.

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Sheet-Pan Lemon-Garlic Cod with Roasted Vegetables

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.

Photographer: Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Julian Hensarling, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen.

This sheet-pan cod and vegetables recipe is a simple, flavorful meal where everything cooks together on one pan for easy cleanup. The cod is nestled in a foil packet, so the herbed butter and juices keep the fish tender and moist while the vegetables roast beautifully.

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Herb-Marinated Veggie & Chickpea Salad

Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.

Photographer: Jacob Fox, Food Stylist: Sammy Mila, Prop Stylist: Joseph Wanek.

This herb-marinated veggie-and-chickpea salad is a refreshing, no-cook dish packed with fresh flavors. It brings together crisp raw vegetables and fiber-rich chickpeas, all tossed in a zesty herb dressing that infuses every bite. Since it requires no stove or oven time, it’s perfect for warm days, meal prep or busy weeknights when you want something quick.

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Lemony Salmon Rice Bowl with Feta, Cucumber & Tomato Salad

Photographer: Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Hannah Grennwood.

Photographer: Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer, Prop Stylist: Hannah Grennwood.

This lemony salmon rice bowl is a fresh and satisfying meal that’s quick and flavorful. Flaky broiled salmon is drizzled with a zesty lemon dressing that brightens the entire dish. It’s served over a bed of fluffy brown rice, which absorbs the citrusy flavors. On the side, a crisp salad of cucumber, cherry tomatoes and feta cheese brings creaminess and a refreshing crunch.

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Original Source:

https://www.eatingwell.com/mediterranean-diet-dinners-to-reduce-inflammation-11906881