If you are craving a Mediterranean culinary adventure, many iconic islands are teeming with a tempting array of Mediterranean dishes to delight any food lover.
While an island hopping cruise trip is perfect for endless sunshine, great company and pure soul food, with so many alluring destinations, the only question is where will you go first?
Whether you are savoring lamb kebabs on the Turkish island of Bodrum or indulging in a gyros meat dish in a specialty restaurant when cruising around fjords in Norway, your culinary journey through these islands will be the ultimate foodie getaway.
Hummus and Fava, Santorini, Greece
A world-famous staple of Mediterranean cuisine, hummus is said to have originated from either Greece or Egypt. This famous party diet food dip is best enjoyed with tortilla chips, crackers, fresh cucumber and more.
Fava, on the other hand, is the Greek version of hummus. This mild appetizer can be found in most Greek restaurants and is served drenched in salt and olive oil. The ingredients are different, but the taste is similar to hummus.
Black squid ink pasta, Eastern Sicily
Squid ink has a gentle salty flavor and gives a striking black color to dishes like pasta and rice. Black squid ink pasta is one of the most Instagrammable Mediterranean foods, so it is better to try it at least once.
Ordering this pasta dish with fresh calamari risotto is best for the ultimate food experience. To impress friends and families back home, buy ready-made squid ink spaghetti and cook delicious pasta for them.
Escaping the Cold: Discover the Hottest February Destinations for Your Next Eco-Getaway
Mediterranean Sashimi
Although you may be familiar with Japanese sushi and sashimi, the Mediterranean has created a distinctive way to enjoy the richness of the sea. Mediterranean cooks utilize a squeeze of fresh lemon and a dusting of salt and pepper, while Japanese chefs add wasabi and soy sauce.
If you’re innovative, try some uncooked oysters, such as achinos or sea urchins. Choose a subtle salmon carpaccio or tuna tartare as an appetizer if those two seem somewhat too offbeat for your palate.
Ischian Rabbit stew, Ischia, Italy
Have delicacies prepared in the searing heat of the sandy shore at Ristaurante Emanuela, or try rabbit stew in rustic agriturismos? Either of the two will be the best! You can also explore the island’s wineries, which have rich soils full of ash and limoncello or local walnut liqueurs while the sun sets.
Secure a seat at the Albergo Il Monastero, housed within the 15th-century Castello Aragonese, for a meal to remember on the island. Situated on its stunning coastline at Ischia Ponte, the castle is one of the island’s most unique features.
Marinated Grilled Octopus, Hvar, Croatia
For an island vibe with a food slant, look at the island of Hvar, just off the coast of Croatia, where the smell of pines and lavender is never too far away.
Besides its waterside charm, food is another major draw in Hvar. You need not go far to try the island’s signature dish of fish and potato stew. Other classical offerings are grilled octopus drizzled in olive oil and herbs served with local goat cheese.
Stuffed Grape Leaves, Greece
The most common cultures to use stuffed grape leaves are Arab and Greek. These are also known as domoldes or dolmadakia. In any case, the idea is still straightforward. Roasted grape leaves (available in jars) encase a mixture of rice, veggies, condiments, and occasionally chopped meat. Subsequently, the parcels are added to a large pot along with additional spice and simmered until tender, which is a genuine work of devotion.
Stuffed grape leaves can be found on menus at restaurants, supermarkets, and in delectable local markets when you travel to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine. Make the juicy Lebanese version, or attempt the Greek variation at home.
Bougata, Crete, Greece
If you visit the Greek island of Crete, you must try the most stunning Mediterranean cuisine dish, Bougata. It is made of thin hand-rolled phyllo pastry filled with custard or sweet mizithra goat cheese and served warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
The best place to order this is in Liontaria or Kirkor, the island’s capital, Heraklion. The dish is traditionally made of custard, with a side portion of ice cream during summer.
Neapolitan Tomato Sauce, Italy
Tomatoes thrive in the Mediterranean region because of its pleasant & bright climate. Italian, Spanish, and even French cuisines frequently include them. The traditional Neapolitan tomato sauce is the most appreciated. It’s excellent smeared over pizza, poured over a bowl of freshly cooked pasta, or utilized as a foundation for various recipes and meals.
Shish kebabs, Bodrum, Turkey
Nestled along the stunning Aegean coast, Bodrum is a treasure trove for Mediterranean food lovers, especially if you are fond of mouthwatering kebabs. Besides the rich history and picturesque views, Bodrum has something to satisfy every palate.
The town’s streets have a mix of well-established eateries, each serving this delectable offering in their style. Restaurants like Otanik Ocakbasi are household names, while the newcomer Kebab Guru is known for its exceptional service.
