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Mediterranean diet plan for one person

Tailoring the Mediterranean diet for one? It's all about scaling down those heart-healthy recipes to single servings. You'll enjoy a diverse menu of fish, legumes, and fresh produce that's not only good for your heart but also perfect for solo cooking adventures.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Olive oil
  • Whole grain bread
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Oats
  • Lentils
  • Chickpeas
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Greek yogurt
  • Feta cheese

  • Eggs
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Chicken breast
  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Bell peppers
  • Onions
  • Garlic

  • Carrots
  • Eggplant
  • Zucchini
  • Apples
  • Oranges
  • Grapes
  • Berries
  • Figs
  • Dates
  • Red wine
  • Herbal teas

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Article Reviewed
• Written by Zuzanna Kędziora
• Published on April 29, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

Tailoring the Mediterranean diet plan for one person means focusing on fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a variety of foods that are both heart-healthy and delicious. Single-serve recipes ensure that you can prepare quick and easy meals without worrying about leftovers.

This diet is ideal for maintaining portion control while enjoying the diverse flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or prefer vegetarian options, there's plenty to choose from that suits a solo diner.

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Foods to eat

  • Whole Grains: Brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa.
  • Vegetables: A variety of fresh, seasonal vegetables such as tomatoes, bell peppers, and leafy greens.
  • Fruits: Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and berries for snacks and desserts.
  • Proteins: Fish, poultry, and legumes like beans and lentils.
  • Healthy Fats: Olive oil as the main cooking fat; avocados and nuts for additional fat sources.
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You should think of the Mediterranean diet as a package deal, filled with many tasty, healthy choices.

Marc Gillinov, M.D., Steven Nissen, M.D.

Foods not to eat

  • Red Meat: Limit red meat intake to a few times a month.
  • Refined Grains: White bread, pasta made from refined flour, and other heavily processed grains.
  • Sugar-Sweetened Beverages: Sodas and other drinks high in sugars.
  • Highly Processed Foods: Fast food and processed snacks that are high in additives.
  • Industrial Oils: Avoid cooking with oils that are heavily processed such as canola or soybean oil.

Main benefits

The Mediterranean diet plan for one person is flexible and easy to adapt, focusing on fresh vegetables, fruits, and seafood, which are perfect for single-portion meals. It encourages the use of olive oil and nuts, providing heart-healthy fats. This diet also promotes longevity and has been linked to reduced risks of heart disease and cancer.

Mediterranean diet plan for one person graph

📊 Recommended food breakdown (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

For a Mediterranean diet plan for one person, it’s wise to purchase vegetables and fruits in season to save money and enjoy peak flavor. Buying whole grains and legumes in bulk can also reduce costs significantly. Consider using herbs and spices to enhance flavors instead of opting for pricier ingredients.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

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7-Day Meal Plan for Mediterranean Diet

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt topped with mixed berries and almonds
  • Lunch: Quinoa salad with spinach, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted vegetables (bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and eggplant) seasoned with garlic and herbs
  • Snack: Sliced apples with a handful of walnuts

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with sliced figs and a sprinkle of cinnamon
  • Lunch: Chickpea salad with kale, carrots, bell peppers, and a lemon-tahini dressing
  • Dinner: Lentil soup with whole grain bread on the side
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with honey and chopped walnuts

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach, onions, and garlic, served with whole grain toast
  • Lunch: Mediterranean tuna salad stuffed in half a bell pepper, served with cucumber slices
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa pilaf and steamed broccoli
  • Snack: Orange slices with a handful of almonds

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Whole grain toast topped with mashed avocado and sliced tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil
  • Lunch: Greek salad with lettuce, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, red onions, feta cheese, and olives, dressed with olive oil and red wine vinegar
  • Dinner: Zucchini noodles with marinara sauce and grilled salmon
  • Snack: Feta cheese with sliced dates

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Yogurt parfait with Greek yogurt, granola, and mixed berries
  • Lunch: Stuffed bell peppers with brown rice, black beans, corn, and salsa
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with roasted carrots and quinoa
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Omelette with spinach, onions, and feta cheese, served with whole grain toast
  • Lunch: Mediterranean lentil salad with kale, cucumbers, bell peppers, and a lemon-tahini dressing
  • Dinner: Grilled tuna steak with sautéed kale and quinoa pilaf
  • Snack: Sliced cucumber with Greek yogurt dip

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Overnight oats with almond milk, chopped walnuts, and diced apples
  • Lunch: Quinoa and kale salad with roasted chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, dressed with olive oil and lemon juice
  • Dinner: Baked eggplant stuffed with lentils, tomatoes, onions, and garlic, topped with crumbled feta cheese
  • Snack: Mixed grapes with a handful of almonds

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.