1: Top 10 Essential Mediterranean Dishes

2: 1. Hummus - A creamy blend of chickpeas, tahini, and olive oil

3: 2. Falafel - Crispy chickpea fritters served with tahini sauce

4: 3. Moussaka - Layers of eggplant, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce

5: 4. Spanakopita - Flaky phyllo pastry filled with spinach and feta cheese

6: 5. Tzatziki - Yogurt, cucumber, and garlic dip served with pita bread

7: 6. Paella - Spanish rice dish with saffron, seafood, and chorizo

8: 7. Tabouleh - Fresh parsley, mint, and bulgur wheat salad

9: 8. Shakshuka - Poached eggs in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce