A Mediterranean pantry scene displaying fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts, and dried herbs arranged on a wooden surface.
Cuisines Guide

Pantry Guide: Mediterranean

Mediterranean recipes in the Handcrafted Curations collection feature fresh produce, whole grains, legumes, olive oil and herbs. Local ingredients and traditions shape dishes across the region.

A Mediterranean pantry scene displaying fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, olive oil, nuts, and dried herbs arranged on a wooden surface.

Pantry Context

FAO describes wide regional variation across Mediterranean food traditions. Its overview highlights fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes and olive oil, alongside moderate amounts of seafood, poultry, dairy, meat and eggs. These traditions also include how food is grown, prepared and shared.

Core Ingredients

Several linked recipes pair olive oil, herbs and citrus with vegetables, grains and seafood. Other dishes feature chickpeas, quinoa, almonds, saffron, za'atar and grilled halloumi.

How To Use

Try the linked chickpea salad with cucumber, peppers, olives and feta. Quinoa works in a salad or stuffed pepper, and orzo pairs well with roasted vegetables. Grill halloumi and finish it with citrus. Za'atar seasons both grilled eggplant and shrimp. Choose rice by the texture you want: long-grain varieties cook up fluffy, while medium- and short-grain rice are softer and stickier.

Storage

Store dry beans in a hard, closed container in a cool, dark place. Keep dried herbs and produce in containers that limit moisture and pests, then store them in a cool, dry, dark spot. For white rice, use a tightly sealed container and check for insects or discoloration before putting it away.

HC Recipes

The recipes below put these ingredients to use in salads, bowls, seafood dishes, pasta and more.

HC Recipes That Use This