17 Great Mediterranean Diet Desserts

Are you trying to eat a little healthier? Perhaps you are trying a Kitchen Chalkboard favorite, the Mediterranean diet? Although truthfully, diet is a bit of a misnomer. When you eat this way, there isn’t a strict list of what to eat. Instead, there are guidelines to follow. Flexibility is the beauty of this way of life, and once you understand the simple rules, it is easy from there. No need to deprive yourself; you can have some Mediterranean diet desserts.

Wondering if ice cream is allowed on the Mediterranean diet? Or is chocolate allowed on the Mediterranean diet? Read on for everything you need to know to enjoy Mediterranean diet desserts.

Let’s go to the Chalkboard.

What Are The Guidelines Of The Mediterranean Diet?

Again, this isn’t a diet; it’s more of a lifestyle. Desserts are ok to eat! Here are the guidelines. If you want to learn more about the diet, start with The Mediterranean Diet for Beginners.

• Eat primarily plant-based food (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes) 
• Healthy fats are good
• Eat fish 2-3 times a week
• Limit processed foods
• Limit your intake of sweets
• Meals are to be eaten with family and friends and enjoyed
• Physical activity is to be plentiful

How To Choose Mediterranean Diet Desserts?

When looking for sweets and treats to eat while on the Mediterranean Diet, you want foods that aren’t too high in sugar, remember, you are trying to limit your intake of sweets. 

Desserts that include fruits are great since you are eating more plant-based foods. Not too many artificial ingredients, either.

17 Mediterranean Diet Desserts Recipes

Fruit-Based Mediterranean Diet Desserts

Poached Pears

Red wine is encouraged (in moderation, of course) on the med diet. These pears are poached in wine and delicious to boot. This recipe from The Flavor Bender has a great tutorial and offers lots of options to allow you to customize the dessert to your liking.

Walnut Stuffed Figs

You must try this Albanian specialty. It is delicious and simple with just four ingredients. The softness of the figs and the crunch of the walnuts pair beautifully. 

Fruit Crisp

Whole grains are a big part of the Mediterranean diet, and A fruit crisp contains lots of oats from whole grains. Almost any fruit will work for this dessert, and The Kitchn has a tutorial on making the best versions.

Clafoutis

This French dessert, pronounced klah-foo-TEE, is similar to a custardy pancake. This version, made by the Mediterranean Dish, substitutes raspberries for the standard cherries. It also uses a blender, so the whole thing comes together in a snap.

Watermelon In Honey Syrup With Cinnamon Yogurt

Watermelon is often relegated to picnics and BBQs. But when paired with the syrup, it’s elevated to a whole new level. 

Fruit Salad

The best palate cleanser after a meal is a fruit salad. If you want to take the flavors up a notch, add a honey-lime dressing as Downshiftology does. 

Mascarpone Stuffed Figs

If you are looking for a unique dessert with a beautiful presentation, this is it. Mascarpone stuffed figs from Eating Well are a must-try. 

Mediterranean Diet Desserts Featuring Chocolate

Dark Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Chocolate is allowed on the Mediterranean diet in moderation, and dark chocolate, which is higher in antioxidants, is preferred. Melt some chocolate in the microwave and then dip fresh strawberries for an elegant treat.

Dark Chocolate Almonds

Nuts are a great source of protein and minerals. Combine that with the antioxidants that dark chocolate provide, and you have a filling dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth. 

Tahini Brownies

If you aren’t familiar with tahini, it’s a paste made from sesame seeds that hummus’s basis. The nutty flavor is an excellent complement to brownies. This recipe from The Mediterranean Dish is easy to prepare and uses ingredients you likely have in your pantry.

Simple Mediterranean Diet Desserts

Pavlova

Made from five simple ingredients you likely have on hand, the Pavlova is a great dessert. It’s crunchy, chewy, and soft at the same time. If you like textures, you will like this! Top it with curd and fresh fruit. 

Melopita

All of the flavor from this Greek dessert comes from honey and ricotta cheese. There isn’t too much sugar, but you don’t miss it. If you have a springform pan, use it. 

Frozen Yogurt

You may be wondering, is ice cream allowed on the Mediterranean diet?  And technically, yes, you can have ice cream on the Mediterranean diet. But for a healthier twist, try frozen greek yogurt. A significant drawback to frozen yogurt is that it often has high levels of added sugar. Making it at home helps you to control the ingredients. Registered Dietician Carrie Walder takes you through how to make it step by step.

Olive Oil Cake

Healthy fats are encouraged on the Mediterranean diet, and olive oil is one of the most beneficial. If you need a make-ahead dessert this is it! The olive oil keeps it moist for days. 

Halvah

This middle eastern candy made from tahini is part savory and part sweet. It’s undoubtedly filling, and the flavor possibilities are endless! There is a fair amount of sugar, but a little bit of Halvah goes a long way.

Almond Stuffed Dates

This dessert is salty and sweet. Place two almonds inside a date and secure with a toothpick. You can take this dessert to the next level like Wholesomelicious did and cover it with dark chocolate, flaky salt, and coconut flakes. They are out of this world!

Khoshaf 

This Middle Eastern delicacy is served in family homes during Ramadan. This version from Amira’s Pantry requires no cooking or special skills. Simply combine dried fruit and nuts with syrup. If you can’t find orange blossom water, vanilla will work just as well. 

What Do You Think?

Have you tried any of these Mediterranean Diet Desserts? Let me know in the comments below; I’d love to hear.

Want to learn about the newest version of this European take on eating? We’ve written everything you need to know about the Green Mediterranean Diet.  Stuck in a breakfast rut? Here are plenty of Mediterranean Breakfast ideas to bust you out.

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