I’ve spent years exploring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, especially the alluring notes of Turkish and Lebanese cooking. Along the way, I’ve assembled a pantry that makes it easy to whip up healthy, mouthwatering dishes. Below, you’ll find my go-to staples—organized by category—to help you create your own Mediterranean pantry at home. I’ve also included some of my favorite spice blends and a few dishes where they truly shine!
Fresh Herbs & Aromatics
Parsley, Mint, Cilantro, Dill, and Basil
These are the core fresh herbs you’ll find in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. They add brightness, color, and a distinctively fresh flavor.
📌 Use in: Tabbouleh (Lebanese classic), Turkish Shepherd’s Salad (Çoban Salatası), or scattered on top of grilled fish.
Rosemary, Thyme, and Oregano
Mediterranean cooking wouldn’t be the same without these woody, earthy herbs.
📌 Use in: Roasted vegetables (drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and toss with thyme or rosemary before roasting) or to marinate chicken or lamb.
Garlic and Onions
The foundation of countless Turkish and Lebanese dishes, garlic and onions create depth and a savory base.
📌 Use in: Classic hummus, sautéed with spinach for a quick side, or in stew-like dishes such as Lebanese lentil soup
Spices, Seasonings & Blends
Sumac
Tangy and slightly fruity, sumac is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern flavor.
📌 Use in: Fattoush salad dressing, sprinkled over grilled chicken or fish for a vibrant, zesty kick.
Za’atar
A beloved blend typically made with dried thyme, sumac, and sesame seeds.
📌 Use in: Brush flatbread with olive oil and sprinkle za’atar on top; also fantastic on roasted vegetables or avocado toast.
Aleppo Pepper (Pul Biber)
Milder than traditional chili flakes, with a slightly sweet and smoky flavor.
📌 Use in: Turkish lentil soup (Mercimek Çorbası), sprinkled over eggs, or mixed into marinades.
Baharat
This warm, aromatic spice mix (commonly cinnamon, black pepper, cumin, and more) is used across the Middle East.
📌 Use in: Meat rubs for kebabs, spicing up roasted eggplant, or stirred into tomato-based stews.
Cumin & Coriander
Earthy, savory, and perfect for layering flavors.
📌 Use in: Falafel mix, lentil soups, and spiced grains (like bulgur or couscous).
》 Delicious Blend Suggestion: Lebanese 7-Spice (Baharat) – Combine ground allspice, cinnamon, black pepper, coriander, cumin, fenugreek, and cloves for a fragrant mix that transforms everything from rice dishes to meat marinades.
Pastes & Liquid Flavor Boosters
Tomato Paste & Harissa
Tomato paste provides a concentrated depth to sauces and soups.
Harissa (a North African chili paste) brings heat and complexity—perfect for spicing up Turkish or Lebanese-style meats.
📌 Use in: Stews, shakshuka, or mixed into spreads like hummus for an extra kick.
Pomegranate Molasses
Tart, sweet, and totally unique to Middle Eastern cuisine but also used in Turkish cuisine.
📌 Use in: Fattoush salad dressing, drizzle over roasted vegetables, or glaze chicken or lamb skewers.
Tahini
A sesame paste that’s nutty and creamy, essential in hummus and baba ganoush.
📌 Use in: Dressings for salads, drizzled over roasted cauliflower, or stirred into sauces for a rich finish.
Olives & Oils
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
The crown jewel of the Mediterranean diet: it’s fruity, rich, and loaded with health benefits. Always choose a high-quality oil for drizzling or salad dressings.
📌 Use in: Drizzle on salads, finish a soup, or even bake vegetables and fish.
Kalamata Olives & Other Brined Olives
Salty and meaty, these olives add Mediterranean flair to any dish.
📌 Use in: Greek salads, tapenades, or on top of Turkish pide bread.
Grains, Legumes & More
Bulgur Wheat, Couscous & Rice
Bulgur is a Middle Eastern staple used in tabbouleh or kibbeh.
Couscous is quick-cooking and perfect for a fast side dish.
Short-grain rice (like Egyptian rice) is often used in Turkish pilafs.
📌 Use in: Tabbouleh, pilafs, or stuffed vegetables like dolmas and stuffed peppers.
Chickpeas & Lentils
High in protein and fiber, chickpeas and lentils are essential for the plant-based side of Mediterranean cooking.
📌 Use in: Hummus, falafel, lentil soups, or salads.
Feta Cheese & Labneh
While not strictly “pantry,” these dairy staples deserve mention for their tangy, creamy qualities.
📌 Tip: Use in: Crumble on salads or blend labneh into dips.
Some Favorite Dish Ideas
1. Turkish-Style Lentil Soup (Mercimek Çorbası)
Combine red lentils, onions, garlic, tomato paste, and a bit of cumin and Aleppo pepper. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
2. Lebanese Tabbouleh
Use bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and onions. Toss with fresh lemon juice and high-quality olive oil. Add a sprinkle of sumac or drizzle with pomegranate molasses for a tangy twist.
3. Baba Ganoush
Roast or grill eggplants until smoky, then blend with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Swirl in some olive oil and enjoy with pita bread.
4. Za’atar Flatbread
Brush a pita or flatbread with olive oil, sprinkle generously with za’atar, and bake until the bread is lightly crisp. Serve with olives and feta.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Baharat
Marinate chicken cubes in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and a spoonful of baharat. Grill until juicy and serve with a side of yogurt dip or tahini sauce.
A Note on Quality & Sourcing
Whenever possible, I choose organic or locally sourced ingredients—fresh produce and high-quality pantry items really make a difference in flavor. For example, look for cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil and brined olives without artificial preservatives. Invest in fresh spices each season; stale spices can dull your dishes.
Bringing the Mediterranean Into Your Kitchen
With these Mediterranean essentials on hand, you’ll be set to create flavorful, healthy meals inspired by Turkish, Lebanese, and broader Middle Eastern cuisine. Remember:
✅️ Keep your spices fresh and organized.
✅️ Stock up on extra virgin olive oil, pomegranate molasses, tahini, and a variety of olives.
✅️ Lean on whole grains (bulgur, couscous, rice) and proteins (beans, lentils, lean meats) to round out your meals.
By mixing and matching these pantry staples, you’ll be able to craft mouthwatering dishes that evoke the warm, sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean—right in your own kitchen!
👩🍳 Chef’s Suggestion: Build a Mediterranean pantry that’s brimming with fresh herbs, vibrant spices, and authentic Middle Eastern ingredients to effortlessly cook healthy Turkish and Lebanese recipes any night of the week. Enjoy the journey and savor every bite!