15 Mediterranean Grill Recipes To Try

Grilling under the Mediterranean sun has been a tradition for centuries, bringing families together over smoky, flavorful feasts.

From the shores of Greece to the bustling markets of Morocco, every region has its own twist on charred perfection. These recipes bring bold spices, fresh ingredients, and ancient cooking techniques straight to your backyard. Get ready to fire up the grill and taste the magic of the Mediterranean!

1. Souvlaki

Picture this: juicy chunks of marinated pork or chicken, threaded onto skewers and grilled until golden. Souvlaki is Greece’s street food superstar, loved by locals and tourists alike.

The secret lies in the marinade, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano work their magic overnight. Serve with warm pita, tzatziki, and a squeeze of fresh lemon for an authentic taste of Athens.

2. Shish Taouk

Yogurt isn’t just for breakfast anymore! Shish taouk marinates tender chicken in a creamy blend of yogurt, garlic, and warm spices like paprika and cumin.

This Levantine favorite stays incredibly moist on the grill thanks to that tangy yogurt bath. Pair it with garlic sauce, pickles, and flatbread for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

3. Adana Kebap

Love a little fire with your feast? Adana kebap brings the heat and heart straight from southern Turkey. Hand-minced lamb blends with bold red pepper paste, creating a spicy aroma that teases before it even hits the grill.

Each skewer is molded by hand, then kissed by hot charcoal until smoky, juicy perfection. One bite delivers that irresistible mix of spice, char, and pure grill-side satisfaction.

4. Sis Kofte

Think of sis kofte as meatballs that went to grill camp and came back cooler. Ground lamb or beef gets mixed with onions, parsley, and spices, then shaped onto skewers.

The result? Juicy, flavorful kebabs with a slightly crispy exterior. They’re perfect tucked into lavash bread with grilled peppers and tomatoes, creating a handheld feast you won’t forget.

5. Sis Kebap

When simplicity meets perfection, you get sis kebap. Cubes of lamb or veal are marinated in olive oil, onion juice, and a hint of black pepper before hitting the grill.

No fancy tricks here – just quality meat and high heat creating caramelized edges and tender centers. Serve alongside grilled tomatoes, peppers, and rice pilaf for a classic Turkish dinner that never goes out of style.

6. Cop Sis

Good things come in small packages, and cop sis proves it! These tiny veal or lamb skewers pack serious flavor despite their bite-sized appearance.

Originally from Anatolia, they’re seasoned simply with salt and pepper, letting the quality meat shine through. Perfect as appetizers or part of a mixed grill platter, they disappear faster than you can say “more, please!”

7. Arabic Mixed Grill

Why choose one when you can have them all? Arabic mixed grill is the ultimate carnivore’s dream, featuring lamb chops, chicken, kofta, and more on one glorious platter.

Popular in Levantine and Gulf restaurants, this feast showcases different marinades and cuts working in delicious harmony. Share it family-style with rice, hummus, and fresh salads for an unforgettable gathering.

8. Grilled Halloumi

Cheese on the grill? Absolutely! Halloumi is Cyprus’s gift to grilling enthusiasts everywhere, with a high melting point that lets it get beautifully charred without turning into a puddle.

Those crispy, golden grill marks contrast perfectly with the squeaky, salty interior. Drizzle with honey or serve with watermelon for a sweet-savory combo that’ll blow your taste buds’ minds.

9. Grilled Octopus

Ever seen a superhero movie where the hero transforms? That’s octopus on the grill – from rubbery to ridiculously tender with just the right technique.

Greeks have mastered this art: boil first, then grill with olive oil until the edges crisp up like magic. The smoky, slightly sweet flavor paired with lemon and oregano transports you straight to a seaside taverna.

10. Arrosticini

From the mountains of Abruzzo comes arrosticini, tiny lamb skewers that are basically Italian comfort food on a stick. Shepherds created these portable snacks centuries ago, and they’re still wildly popular today.

The lamb is cut into small cubes and grilled over a special long, narrow grill called a fornacella. Simple seasoning lets the sweet lamb flavor shine through beautifully.

11. Pinchos Morunos

Centuries of flavor meet on a single skewer with pinchos morunos, where Spain’s Moorish roots still sizzle. Tender pork bathes in a paprika, cumin, and coriander marinade that fills the air with warm, exotic spice. The name translates to “Moorish skewers,” a nod to the cultural blend behind every bite.

Grill until smoky and golden, then grab crusty bread to catch those irresistible, juice-soaked drips. One bite, and you’re hooked.

12. Grilled Sardines

Small but mighty, sardines become superstars when kissed by flame. Coastal communities from Morocco to Spain have grilled these silver beauties for generations, keeping the preparation wonderfully simple.

Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt, and grill until the skin crisps perfectly. Eat them whole – yes, bones and all – for maximum nutrition and authentic Mediterranean vibes.

13. Orata Alla Griglia

Italians know that sometimes the best recipes are the simplest ones. Orata alla griglia features whole seabream grilled with nothing more than olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs.

The skin gets wonderfully crispy while the flesh stays moist and flaky. This elegant dish proves you don’t need complicated sauces when you start with quality ingredients and respect the grill’s power.

14. Escalivada

Not all grill heroes wear capes – some are vegetables! Escalivada celebrates Catalonia’s love for fire-roasted veggies like eggplant, bell peppers, and onions.

Grill them until the skins blacken and blister, then peel and dress with olive oil and garlic. This smoky, silky side dish works perfectly with grilled meats or spread on crusty bread as a vegetarian delight.

15. Grilled Bell Peppers

Want peppers that taste like sunshine? Toss them on the grill and let the magic happen. Flames coax out their natural sweetness, turning every colorful slice into smoky, caramelized perfection.

Once the skin blisters and peels away, drizzle them with olive oil, add a whisper of garlic, and inhale that mouthwatering aroma. Serve as a side, tuck into sandwiches, or toss into salads – every bite bursts with Mediterranean joy.