Ultimate Mediterranean Diet Foods List

Ranked the No. 1 dietary pattern of the year for the last six years by U.S. News & World Report, the Mediterranean diet is far from novel. The centuries-old way of eating is native to the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea (similar to the pre-globalization diets of many regions); however, it's only become the subject of scientific nutrition deep-dives in the last 70 or so years.

A great body of evidence shows that this customizable way of eating—brimming with plant-based foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, whole grains and optional moderate amounts of wine, may help you live longer and stave off chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. In fact, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found a whopping 30% lower incidence of heart attacks, strokes and deaths from heart disease in high-risk individuals who followed a Mediterranean diet over a five-year period than in those who ate a low-fat diet. (Learn more about how to get started eating a Mediterranean diet.)

One key component of the Mediterranean diet is the emphasis on foods that may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are at the root of many chronic diseases. These foods include omega-3-rich fish, fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds and healthy oils. The dietary pattern is particularly rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help decrease bad LDL cholesterol and raise good HDL cholesterol—a win-win for the cardiovascular system. Plus, the heightened emphasis on plant-based foods helps ensure a bounty of fiber and phytonutrients.

The prominence of plant foods in the Mediterranean diet leaves little room for highly-processed foods, added sugar and saturated fat. And although full-fat dairy is still consumed in moderation, red meat and sweets are limited to a few times per month. Wine is enjoyed in moderation with dinner; however, when it's not poured, water is the beverage of choice.

Beyond specific food groups, a large part of the Mediterranean diet's benefits are based on healthy habits associated with the diet: cooking meals at home (and enjoying them with company), living an active lifestyle and practicing mindful eating with reasonable portion sizes.

At its core, the culinary landscape around the Mediterranean diet is quite simple. It hinges on preparing fresh, seasonal foods simply to let the quality and inherent taste of each ingredient shine. This makes it easy for the Mediterranean diet principles to be applied to many different foods and types of cuisine, so long as there is ample produce, whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. Remember, canned, dried and frozen foods count here as well! Here is a non-exhaustive list of foods to include on your Mediterranean diet-friendly shopping list.

The Ultimate Mediterranean Diet Shopping List

Extra-Virgin Olive Oil

Varying dietary patterns make up the overall Mediterranean diet, but olive oil is at the core of each one. Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in tocopherols, carotenoids and polyphenols, giving it antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This kitchen staple is as versatile in cooking as it is for everyday staples, such as dips, spreads and salad dressings. When shopping for a high-quality olive oil, look for one in a dark bottle. Light and heat can cause the delicate fats to go rancid, and the tinting helps protect it. Once you bring your oil home, store it in a cool, dark place to preserve its quality. (Learn more about the health benefits of olive oil.)

Fruits and Veggies

Locally-sourced, seasonal produce takes center stage in the Mediterranean diet eating pattern. Dark leafy greens such as kale, chard, beet greens, mustard greens, cassava leaves and collard greens are often added to frittatas, beans and lentil soups. Wild greens like arugula, chicory and dandelion are also popular in both cooked and raw dishes. You can include basically any vegetable you prefer, like artichokes, beets, broccoli, cucumber, eggplant, mushrooms, radishes, carrots, bell peppers, okra, squashes, green beans and onions. Frozen and canned vegetables are great options, too, if you're worried about food waste—just be sure to check the label for added sugar, sodium and fat. Garlic, in particular, is a mainstay in many recipes; it's used as a versatile flavor agent in everything from sauces and soups to grain dishes (and it packs some impressive health benefits).

Fruits common to the Mediterranean diet include apples, apricots, avocados, berries, citrus, dates, figs, grapes, stone fruit and pomegranate. Lemons are often used to squeeze over fish, veggies, soups and beans for a fresh finish. However, all fruits can be included, since the principle is to add more fruits rather than specific ones.

Pictured recipe: Cauliflower Rice Bowls with Grilled Chicken

Herbs and Spices

Aromatic herbs and spices are great ways to up the flavor of your meals without adding more salt or sugar. These plant-based seasoning agents reduce the need for to add excess salt, plus they provide health-promoting antioxidants. There are so many spices that can add complex layers of flavor, the world is your oyster. Choose ones you like and will use regularly, whether that's coriander, cumin, oregano or cinnamon. Use fresh herbs like basil to make homemade pesto, or a bunch of parsley to form the base of a zesty gremolata.

Fresh, Frozen and Canned Seafood

Fish and shellfish are key sources of protein and healthy fats in the Mediterranean diet. Omega-3–rich fish such as tuna, sardines and salmon are enjoyed fresh or canned. Mussels, clams and shrimp are often featured in pasta and grain dishes, or simply served with lemon, olive oil and herbs. The Mediterranean diet encourages seafood consumption twice per week.

Whole Grains

Whole grains are an important part of the Mediterranean diet. Farro is one of the traditional grains used in both hot dishes and cold salads in Italy. Another classic grain is bulgur, which is made from cracked wheat berries and used in pilafs and tabbouleh. Couscous, pasta and barley are also commonly found in different regions. When shopping for whole grains, look for the term "whole" or "whole grain" on the front of the package and in the ingredient list—it should be the first ingredient listed.

Legumes (Dried and Canned)

One of the pulses popularly consumed in the Mediterranean diet is the chickpea, which is whipped into hummus, formed in falafel and tossed into salads. Lentils are also commonly used in soups and stews for tasty one-pot meals packed with fiber and protein. Black-eyed peas, kidney beans and cannellini beans are often tossed into salads with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh squeeze of lemon.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are enjoyed as a satisfying snack thanks to their trifecta of fiber, protein and fat. A common condiment used in Middle Eastern countries is tahini, which is made from ground sesame seeds. Most famously used in hummus, this versatile condiment also makes salad dressings sing. Use it in sauces or dressings to spoon over roasted veggies or grain bowls.

Pickled or Fermented Condiments like Kimchi, Olives and Capers

Table olives are enjoyed as a simple snack, or to complement a tray of crudités. Kalamata olives are among the most popular and are often tossed into salads and pasta, or blitzed into tapenade. Olives are rich sources of antioxidant polyphenols and heart-healthy fats. Brined or dried, capers are praised for their briny bite and the way they effortlessly punch up the flavor of pasta, baked fish and dressings. Other pickled or fermented condiments like sauerkraut, kimchi and preserved lemons are fun ways to add flavor as well.

Canned Tomatoes

Whole, diced, stewed or concentrated into a paste, both canned and fresh tomatoes are everyday staples in the Mediterranean diet. Canned tomato products are particularly rich in lycopene (due to the heating process), which may help protect against certain cancers. A few tomato-centric recipes to try include shakshuka, stuffed vegetables, stews, curries, baked fish with tomatoes and, of course, marinara sauce.

Pictured Recipe: Shakshuka (Eggs Poached in Spicy Tomato Sauce)

Yogurt and Cheeses

The Mediterranean diet encourages savoring small amounts of dairy, alongside plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. In addition to providing extra protein to plant-centric meals, yogurt is fermented and rich in gut-healthy probiotics. Cultured cheeses (made from milk and natural cultures) are rich in flavor and can be lower in sodium and additives compared to some of the more processed varieties commonly available in the U.S.

Beyond being used in the classic Greek salad, feta cheese often accompanies stews and fish dishes. Halloumi cheese is known for its firm texture, which makes it suitable for grilling and frying. Harder cheeses like Pecorino Romano and Parmigiano-Reggiano are often grated into pasta, while Manchego can be baked into egg dishes.

Red Wine

Wine is encouraged on the Mediterranean diet but it's generally consumed in moderation (one 5-ounce pour daily is the standard). Red wine, in particular, contains antioxidant polyphenols, particularly resveratrol, which may help increase HDL cholesterol and decrease LDL cholesterol levels (learn more about the health benefits of wine).

The Bottom Line

At its core, the Mediterranean diet paves the way for a minimally-processed way of eating. The overall culinary landscape is rooted in preparing fresh, seasonal ingredients with plant-based flavor agents (olive oil, citrus, herbs and spices), whole grains and lean proteins.

However, following the Mediterranean diet is as much a lifestyle as it is an eating pattern. Take time to cook meals at home (and enjoy them in the company of others) and be mindful of portion sizes and waste. Adopt these basic principles and stock up with items off our shopping list, and you're on your way to experiencing the numerous health benefits of the Mediterranean diet.