The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole, nutrient-rich foods with a focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (especially olive oil), lean proteins, and seafood. Here’s a balanced 5-day meal plan:
Day 1
Breakfast:
- Greek yogurt (unsweetened) with fresh berries, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
- One slice of whole-grain toast with avocado.
Snack:
- A handful of almonds and a piece of fruit (e.g., apple or pear).
Lunch:
- Grilled chicken salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and olives, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
- A small whole-grain roll on the side.
Snack:
- Sliced vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers) with hummus.
Dinner:
- Baked salmon with garlic, lemon, and olive oil.
- Steamed broccoli and quinoa with parsley and olive oil.
Day 2
Breakfast:
- Whole-grain oatmeal with chopped figs, almonds, and a drizzle of honey.
Snack:
- A small handful of mixed nuts.
Lunch:
- Lentil soup with a side of whole-grain pita bread.
- A small mixed salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Snack:
- Greek yogurt with a few slices of cucumber and a dash of dill.
Dinner:
- Grilled chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce.
- Roasted zucchini and eggplant with olive oil and herbs.
Day 3
Breakfast:
- Avocado toast on whole-grain bread, topped with a poached egg and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- A small glass of fresh orange juice.
Snack:
- A small bowl of olives and cherry tomatoes.
Lunch:
- Mediterranean quinoa salad with chickpeas, diced cucumbers, tomatoes, parsley, and feta cheese.
- A side of fresh fruit (e.g., orange or watermelon).
Snack:
- A slice of whole-grain bread with a thin layer of tahini.
Dinner:
- Grilled shrimp with garlic and lemon.
- A side of sautéed spinWhole-grain oatmeal with chopped figs, almonds, and a drizzle of honey.
- Snack:
- A small handful of mixed nuts.
- Lunch:
- Lentil soup with a side of whole-grain pita bread.
- A small mixed salad with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
- Snack:
- Greek yogurt with a few slices of cucumber and a dash of dill.
- Dinner:
- Grilled chicken souvlaki with tzatziki sauce.
- Roasted zucchini and eggplant with olive oil and herbs.ach and brown rice.
Day 4
Breakfast:
- Greek yogurt parfait with granola, pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of honey.
Snack:
- A handful of pistachios and a fresh fruit (e.g., peach or plum).
Lunch:
- Whole-grain pasta with a tomato-basil sauce, olive oil, and grilled vegetables.
- A small side of arugula salad.
Snack:
- A small piece of dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) with a few almonds.
Dinner:
- Baked cod with olives, capers, and cherry tomatoes.
- A side of steamed green beans and roasted sweet potatoes.
Day 5
Breakfast:
- Smashed avocado on whole-grain toast, topped with sliced cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Snack:
- A boiled egg and a handful of grapes.
Lunch:
- Grilled chicken wrap in whole-grain pita with mixed greens, hummus, and tzatziki sauce.
- A side of fresh cucumber slices.
Snack:
- Fresh fruit smoothie with almond milk, banana, and spinach.
Dinner:
- Grilled lamb chops with a lemon-oregano marinade.
- A side of roasted carrots and a small serving of couscous.
Tips for Success:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Include herbal teas and limit sugary beverages.
- Use olive oil as the primary fat for cooking and dressing.
- Opt for fresh, seasonal ingredients whenever possible.
- Moderate your portions of wine (1 glass per day for women, 2 for men) if desired.
This plan can be adjusted to suit your preferences and dietary needs!