These Mediterranean-Inspired Breakfasts Are Perfect For Busy Mornings or Weekend Brunch

The Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its weight-loss and health benefits, largely stemming from the very long list of colorful, nutrient-rich foods that serve as its foundation. Instead of eliminating any one group of foods from your diet, you'll focus on filling every plate with fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats — yes, even at breakfast. If your current morning routine includes more fast food than fresh food, the recipes in this roundup — ranging from naturally sweetened oatmeal to savory egg muffins — can help inspire you to meal plan and prepare healthy dishes at home.

01
Chia and Hemp Seed Superfood Oatmeal
Delightful Mom Food

Chia and Hemp Seed Superfood Oatmeal

This filling breakfast is packed with fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fatty acids. To save time on weekday mornings, mix the ingredients and let them refrigerate overnight, then top the oatmeal with fresh fruit the next day.

Get the recipe: chia and hemp seed superfood oatmeal

02
Kale, Caramelized Onion, and Gouda Egg Muffins
POPSUGAR Photography | Nicole Perry

Kale, Caramelized Onion, and Gouda Egg Muffins

This veggie-filled grab-and-go breakfast is much healthier than any egg muffin you'll find in a drive-through.

Get the recipe: kale, caramelized onion, and gouda egg muffins

03
Easy Bruschetta
Show Me the Yummy

Easy Bruschetta

This colorful bruschetta would make a tasty addition to Sunday brunch. Top it with a poached egg for a more balanced meal.

Get the recipe: easy bruschetta

04
Poached Eggs With Tomato, Swiss Chard, and Chickpeas
POPSUGAR Photography | Lizzie Fuhr

Poached Eggs With Tomato, Swiss Chard, and Chickpeas

Eggs are one of the healthiest animal-based proteins included in the Mediterranean diet and served in a spicy tomato sauce, they're delicious.

Get the recipe: poached eggs with tomato, swiss chard, and chickpeas

05
Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Breakfast Bake

If you like something sweet for breakfast, try making a pan of this protein- and fiber-rich bake, then reheating it on weekday mornings.

Get the recipe: apple cinnamon quinoa breakfast bake

06
Chickpea Avocado Salad
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Chickpea Avocado Salad

This salad is extra filling when served on a piece of whole-grain toast or a muffin, and it's ready in 15 minutes.

Get the recipe: chickpea avocado salad

08
Chocolate Almond Coconut Protein Balls
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Chocolate Almond Coconut Protein Balls

Three of these quick snacks contain nearly eight grams of protein. Pop a few after your morning workout.

Get the recipe: chocolate almond coconut protein balls

09
Avocado Sweet Potato Toast
POPSUGAR Photography | Maria del Rio

Avocado Sweet Potato Toast

If you're going to eat a starch (and you can in moderation!), make it these thinly sliced, toasted sweet potatoes loaded with protein and healthy fats.

Get the recipe: avocado sweet potato toast

10
Turkish Egg and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl
Half Baked Harvest

Turkish Egg and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Grain bowls, but make them breakfast. This savory dish is loaded with greens and fiber, and you can swap toppings for a fresh take every time.

Get the recipe: Turkish egg and quinoa breakfast bowl

11
Mexican Beans Avocado Toast
Cotter Crunch

Mexican Beans Avocado Toast

This vegan avocado toast replaces eggs with smashed pinto beans, seasoned with Mexican herbs and spices. (Bonus: plant-based proteins are often more budget-friendly.)

Get the recipe: Mexican beans avocado toast

12
Slow Cooker Banana Steel-Cut Oatmeal
POPSUGAR Photography | Jenny Sugar

Slow Cooker Banana Steel-Cut Oatmeal

With just five minutes of prep, you can have five days' worth of oatmeal, and each serving is under 300 calories.

Get the recipe: slow cooker banana steel-cut oatmeal