Indian meal plan for mediterranean diet
The Indian meal plan for the Mediterranean diet fuses the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with the healthful elements of the Mediterranean diet. It includes a variety of vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and nuts, along with healthy fats like olive oil and avocado. Fish and poultry are incorporated in moderation, flavored with Indian spices, offering a unique and nutritious culinary experience.
Meal plan grocery list
Oats
Turmeric
Cumin
Mixed vegetables
Chickpeas
Brown rice
Mixed nuts
Tandoori chicken
Roasted vegetables
Chickpea flour
Spinach
Onions
Cottage cheese
Whole wheat roti
Fresh fruits
Seeds
Fish
Quinoa
Semolina
Mustard seeds
Lentils
Yogurt
Honey
Eggplant
Meal plan overview
Experience the flavors of India with the Indian meal plan for the Mediterranean diet. This unique plan blends the healthful aspects of the Mediterranean diet with the spices and flavors of Indian cuisine.
It incorporates olive oil, legumes, and fresh vegetables, all spiced with the vibrant flavors of India, for a delightful culinary journey.
Foods to eat
- Lean Proteins: Chicken breast, turkey, lean beef, and fish like tuna and salmon to boost metabolism and reduce appetite.
- Eggs: A versatile and dense source of protein.
- Low-Fat Dairy: Greek yogurt and cottage cheese for calcium and protein.
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and black beans for plant-based protein and fiber.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, chia seeds, and flaxseeds in moderation for healthy fats and protein.
- Vegetables: Broccoli, spinach, and kale for nutrients and fiber with low calories.
- Whole Grains: Quinoa and brown rice in controlled portions.
- Ample Water: For hydration and to help with feeling full.
✅ Tip
Foods not to eat
- High-Fat Meats: Like bacon and ribeye steaks, which are high in saturated fats.
- Processed Foods: Chips, cookies, and fast food that are high in calories and low in nutrients.
- Sugary Snacks and Beverages: Candies, cakes, and soda.
- Refined Carbohydrates: White bread and pasta which lack protein and can spike blood sugar.
- Full-Fat Dairy: High in calories and saturated fats.
- Alcohol: Can contribute to weight gain and offers little nutritional value.
- Fried Foods: Generally high in calories and unhealthy fats.
- Excessive Dressings and Sauces: Often high in calories and fats.
Main benefits
The High-Protein meal plan for weight loss emphasizes protein-rich foods to enhance satiety and reduce overall calorie intake. It includes lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, and plant-based proteins. This diet aids in preserving muscle mass while promoting fat loss, providing a balanced approach to weight reduction that focuses on nutritious, filling meals with more protein.
🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown
Fat
Carbs
Protein
Fiber
Other
Food alternatives
An Indian meal plan for a Mediterranean diet can be enhanced with these alternatives:
- Turkey breast is a lean protein option that can replace chicken breast.
- Spiralized zucchini provides a low-carb alternative to pasta.
- Cashew cheese offers a dairy-free alternative to feta cheese.
- Pistachios add a unique nutty flavor compared to almonds.
- Watercress can be used instead of mixed greens for a peppery flavor in salads.
How to budget on this meal plan
Extra tips
Any healthy snack ideas?
These Indian snacks blend the flavors of India with the principles of the Mediterranean Diet:
- Grilled paneer with mint chutney
- Chickpea and cucumber salad
- Baked sweet potato chaat
- Multigrain roti with avocado raita
- Fresh fruit with a sprinkle of chat masala
- Mixed nuts with Indian spices
- Roasted chana with lime and pepper
What should I drink on this meal plan?
For an Indian-style Mediterranean diet, consider sipping on green tea for its antioxidants, buttermilk for digestive health, fresh lime water for hydration, coconut water for its electrolytes, and the occasional glass of red wine, embraced for its heart-healthy properties.
How to get even more nutrients?
Meal plan suggestion
Indian Meal Plan for Mediterranean Diet
Day 1
- Breakfast: Masala Oats - Savory oatmeal cooked with turmeric, cumin, and mixed vegetables (calories: 300, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 8g)
- Lunch: Chana Masala - Chickpeas cooked in tomato-based sauce, served with brown rice (calories: 400, protein: 15g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Handful of mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews) (calories: 200, protein: 5g, carbs: 8g, fat: 18g)
- Dinner: Grilled Tandoori Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables (calories: 400, protein: 30g, carbs: 20g, fat: 20g)
Day 2
- Breakfast: Besan Cheela - Chickpea flour pancakes with spinach and onions (calories: 250, protein: 15g, carbs: 20g, fat: 10g)
- Lunch: Palak Paneer - Spinach and cottage cheese curry, served with whole wheat roti (calories: 350, protein: 18g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)
- Snack: Fresh fruit salad with a handful of seeds (calories: 150, protein: 3g, carbs: 30g, fat: 2g)
- Dinner: Fish curry with a side of quinoa (calories: 450, protein: 35g, carbs: 40g, fat: 18g)
Day 3
- Breakfast: Vegetable Upma - Semolina cooked with mixed vegetables and mustard seeds (calories: 300, protein: 8g, carbs: 40g, fat: 12g)
- Lunch: Lentil Dal with brown rice (calories: 400, protein: 20g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Yogurt with honey and nuts (calories: 200, protein: 10g, carbs: 20g, fat: 8g)
- Dinner: Baingan Bharta - Mashed eggplant cooked with spices, served with whole wheat pita (calories: 350, protein: 6g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
Day 4
- Breakfast: Idli with Sambar - Steamed rice cakes with lentil and vegetable stew (calories: 350, protein: 10g, carbs: 60g, fat: 5g)
- Lunch: Rajma (Red Kidney Beans) curry with brown rice (calories: 400, protein: 20g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus (calories: 150, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 6g)
- Dinner: Grilled fish with a side of sautéed spinach and garlic naan (calories: 450, protein: 35g, carbs: 40g, fat: 18g)
Day 5
- Breakfast: Poha - Flattened rice cooked with peanuts, curry leaves, and vegetables (calories: 300, protein: 6g, carbs: 50g, fat: 8g)
- Lunch: Vegetable Biryani with raita (calories: 400, protein: 10g, carbs: 65g, fat: 12g)
- Snack: Fresh fruit with a handful of almonds (calories: 200, protein: 5g, carbs: 25g, fat: 10g)
- Dinner: Paneer Tikka with a side of Greek salad (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 20g, fat: 25g)
Day 6
- Breakfast: Whole grain toast with avocado and tomato (calories: 250, protein: 6g, carbs: 30g, fat: 12g)
- Lunch: Mixed Vegetable Curry with whole wheat roti (calories: 350, protein: 8g, carbs: 40g, fat: 18g)
- Snack: Roasted chickpeas (calories: 180, protein: 10g, carbs: 30g, fat: 5g)
- Dinner: Mutter Paneer (peas and cottage cheese) with brown rice (calories: 450, protein: 20g, carbs: 50g, fat: 18g)
Day 7
- Breakfast: Masala Dosa with coconut chutney - Thin rice crepes with spicy potato filling (calories: 350, protein: 6g, carbs: 50g, fat: 12g)
- Lunch: Moong Dal with spinach and whole wheat roti (calories: 400, protein: 20g, carbs: 60g, fat: 10g)
- Snack: Mixed nuts and dried fruits (calories: 200, protein: 5g, carbs: 20g, fat: 12g)
- Dinner: Vegetable stir-fry with tofu and a side of brown rice (calories: 400, protein: 18g, carbs: 40g, fat: 18g)
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⚠️ Keep in mind
Article reviewed
- Written by our editorial team.
- Published on Feb 29, 2024
- Updated on Nov 22, 2024