Make This Zesty, Summery Corn Salad To Use Up The Season's Best Produce

As Fries

You can craft your very own fries using fresh avocados by coating them in crispy bread crumbs and baking them for a bit. From there, pair them with your favorite dipping sauce or even the spicy aioli that goes along with our easy recipe for Gluten-Free Baked Avocado Fries!

On Toast

We all know and love avocado toast. It's the perfect fare for breakfast, lunch, or dinner that packs a nutritious punch! The most basic way to eat avocado on toast is mashing it with some salt and pepper, but we like to get fancy with it and add veggies, cheese, and homemade dressings like the balsamic-based one included in our Avocado Toast with Balsamic Dressing recipe. You can use any type of bread for this, but toasted sourdough is simply *chef's kiss*.

In Desserts

Avocado desserts are so underrated. You can find recipes for avocado browniesand even healthy ice creams! Our go-to is this Mint Chocolate Chip Avocado Ice Cream served in an adorable avo-shaped chocolate bowl. With sweets like these, you'd never even guess there was avocado included.

In Smoothies

Like frozen bananas add creaminess to any smoothie, avocados can, too! Freezing some slices before blending them creates such a satisfying texture. Try it out using our recipe for Cosmic Brownie Protein Smoothies! These protein-rich drinks deliver a dose of nostalgia in the tastiest way ever.

Stuffed

Eating avocado by itself doesn't always spark joy, which is why it's a good idea to bulk 'em up with fillings! Stuffed avocados are a great way to go for an easy lunch or dinner. Just take our Vegan Stuffed Avocados or Shrimp Stuffed Avocados for a spin to see what the hype is all about.

As Pasta Sauce

Pack your next pasta recipe full of vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, and more using some avocados for the sauce! This Creamy Avocado Pasta makes the whole shebang super easy, since all of the sauce ingredients only need a quick blend in a food processor. It's oh-so creamy, plus the sauce can be used for any kind of pasta combo you'd like.

Breakfast Ideas For Your Mediterranean Meal Plan

Healthy Smoothie Bowls with Almond Granola

Starting the day off with a fresh and cooling smoothie bowl is always a good idea. The almond granola from this recipe is a must-make, but from there, you can add any kind of fruits you desire. (via Brit + Co)

Tropical Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Cookies? For breakfast? Count us in. These breakfast cookies take on tropical flavors thanks to banana, pineapple, and mango. Getting in those good fruits will definitely help you glow from the inside out when you incorporate them into your Mediterranean diet meal plan. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Potato Breakfast Casserole

This veggie-packed breakfast casserole ensures you kick off the morning with tons of nutrition. The best part is it's meal prep-friendly, so you can eat on the leftovers all week long. (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Berry Fruit Salad

Serve this colorful berry fruit salad alongside something more savory or eat it on its own – either way, it's bound to be delish. It's topped off with lime juice and poppy seeds to keep every bite interesting. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Goat Cheese Grits with Garlic Butter Mushrooms + Spinach

Goat cheese is undeniably Mediterranean, so when you whip it into some morning grits and toss some mushrooms and spinach into the mix, you've got yourself an easy, fueling breakfast. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Mediterranean Meal Plan Lunches

Greek Salad

Every bit of this salad is super fresh, making it an excellent dish for summertime lunch breaks. Each element balances the other out beautifully! (via Brit + Co)

Roasted Sweet Potato Sandwich

Pile on some sweet potato slices, peppers, sprouts, and fresh basil onto pieces of whole grain bread for an irresistibly easy Mediterranean lunch! Smothering hummus between it all adds a dose of protein that'll keep you satisfied until dinnertime. (via The Edgy Veg)

Whole Grain Salad

This delectable mix of quinoa, carrots, fennel, and onion is an easy lunch-ready side dish you can prep ahead of the week to ensure you have something nourishing on-hand. Bulk it up by adding some tinned fish or grilled chicken to keep you fuller for longer! (via Clean Cuisine)

Avocado Toast with Roasted Asparagus

Avo toast will always have our hearts. This iteration includes roasted asparagus and whole grain bread, which work wonderfully together. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Mediterranean Roasted Red Pepper Pizza

Make your pizza pie Mediterranean-style by piling on mounds of red peppers, olives, and artichokes! Pizza makes an easy lunch, especially if you use ready-made dough. The coolest part is customizing the toppings to your liking. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Dinner Ideas For Your Mediterranean Meal Plan

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers

Dinnertime typically warrants something warmer, so these skewers are sure to please. They're lightly seasoned with some lemon juice and Mediterranean herbs to up the flavors. Pair 'em with grilled peppers and zucchini to balance it all out. (via Brit + Co)

Pastitsio

This baked Greek pasta dish is surprisingly easy. As long as bechamel sauce is involved (in this case, there's plenty), we're there. (via Brit + Co)

Grilled Peach + Chicken Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Having a blend of veggies and fruits is a staple of Mediterranean diet meals, and this hearty salad has it all. The grilled peaches make it all super juicy, while the lettuce and cukes supply the crunch. The lemon dressing is slightly sweetened with honey, and it's to die for! (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Mediterranean Pasta

Top your go-to boxed pasta with some black olives, tomatoes, capers, and vegan feta, and you're well on your way to chowing down on a super easy dinner. Anyone can make this recipe in a pinch! (via This Wife Cooks)

Loaded Shawarma-Spiced Fries with Crunchy Veg Salad + Lemony Tahini

These homemade loaded fries will make you feel like you're eating Mediterranean street food, without ever leaving your place. The creamy tahini sauce truly perfects this shareable dish! (via The First Mess)

Mediterranean Meal Plan Desserts

Raw Coconut Cheesecake Bites

Dates, macadamia nuts, and cashews bulk up these sweet lil' bites with loads of nutrients. They're certifiably irresistible! (via Brit + Co)

Chocolatey Zucchini Bread

Okay, so, this baked bread loaf does include some chocolate, but it also has lots of zucchini. We love a healthy dessert! (via Brit + Co)

Vegan Orange Olive Oil Cake

Smooth olive oil balances out the fresh orange zest and juice in every single bite of this healthy cake. It's unbelievably moist and tender, perfect for pairing with a small scoop of vegan ice cream! (via Earthly Provisions)

Strawberry Chia Seed Pudding

This chia pudding is packed with fiber from the strawberries and chia seeds, making it the perfect guiltless bite to indulge in at the end of the day. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Homemade Freeze Pops

Cool yourself down by prepping these fruity pops. Any frozen fruit is game for this easy dessert recipe, so feel free to freestyle your own flavors! (via Crowded Kitchen)

Weekly Horoscope Themes For July 1-7

This week presents opportunities to explore our relationships and things that bring happiness. The love planet Venus is in the sign of Cancer, and it will be our guiding celestial body, shedding light on where we are in our journey regarding relationships and emotional security. Like last week, the best course in navigating Cancer season is to align primarily with your heart and intuition to help narrow down the root of your needs.

Listen carefully before reacting.

We begin the week by focusing on deepening our emotional connections and commitments, as Venus is in sextile with Juno on July 1. If you are in a relationship, your union will turn toward harmony as you engage in heartfelt discussions while factoring in compassion for past misunderstandings. If you're not in a relationship and need to make amends with anyone else who pulls your heartstrings, you can get to the source of your disconnect. If this isn't possible, write a letter, journal, or meditate on what you desire to release to attract peace.

Energetically, you will experience a breakthrough in your love story as you open your heart.

The veil begins to lift as Neptune's retrograde starts on July 2. It will remain in this backspin motion until October 11. You are encouraged to reflect on your spiritual beliefs and intentions in life. Slow down and assess your approach to living your authentic self while becoming aligned with your soul. This retrograde period also invites you to reassess your dreams and bring the truth to light regarding unresolved matters. On the same day, Mercury enters Leo, infusing you with the ability to articulate your ideas with confidence and charisma. If you're also in need of star power in your relationship, this day will fully support you if you wish to initiate a conversation regarding structure and intention with Venus in trine to Saturn. Prioritize your responsibilities while narrowing down what's needed to create stability in your love life. It will also be favorable to solidify your bonds and make practical investments.

On July 3, be mindful of intense communications and power struggles as Mercury opposes Pluto. This aspect may bring hidden tensions to the surface, urging you to navigate through deep psychological insights and potential conflicts. Then, the New Moon in Cancer on July 5 marks a powerful new beginning in matters of home, family, and emotional security. Set intentions for nurturing relationships and creating a supportive environment for personal growth. Factor intuition and perform a manifestation ritual involving what you desire within your emotional security.

Healing in relationships takes center stage on July 6 with Venus square Chiron. This planetary duo highlights vulnerabilities and past wounds, encouraging you to hold a compassionate space for yourself and others. This day will show how to step into your self-acceptance regarding unresolved issues. Let go and believe in your light as you focus on the good you have done solo or in a partnership. Observe your relationship dynamics with empathy and openness to facilitate healing and growth. July 7 brings surprises and opportunities for excitement in both love and creativity with Venus sextile Uranus. Expect a flash of insight or inspiration that will ignite innovation and spontaneity in your relationships and artistic endeavors. Mercury sextile Jupiter on the same day will boost your mental agility, bringing optimism and positive communication. This aspect supports learning, travel, and sharing ideas, making it an excellent time for broadening your perspective and seeking new opportunities. Overall, this week invites deep emotional insights, healing in relationships, and expansive growth in creativity and communication. Stay open to new experiences and embrace the transformative energies at play.

Key Transits This Week

• 7/1 Venus sextile Juno
• 7/2 Neptune Retrograde, Mercury enters Leo, Venus trine Saturn
• 7/3 Mercury opposite Pluto
• 7/5 New Moon in Cancer
• 7/6 Venus square Chiron
• 7/7 Venus sextile Uranus, Mercury sextile Jupiter

Read Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs For Your Weekly Horoscope

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Prepare to set your priorities in order, Aries. This week, you can strengthen your family bonds and find security in your home life. Mercury's shift into Leo will power up your creativity and stimulate endless sweet nothings with your beloved. Rekindling the fire in your love life will begin as you solidify your terms. Midweek, be mindful of your choice of words or messages when Mercury opposes Pluto. Be the observer in this scenario and avoid jumping to conclusions. Then, the New Moon in Cancer will open a new chapter for you that invites intentions for nurturing domestic harmony and emotional well-being. This cosmic event will seal the deal of powering up your manifestation game when you set a new and intentional path involving your emotional comfort and security.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Expect to be a busybody this week, Taurus. This is your time to focus on your genuine connections while powering up your self-expression. As Venus textiles Juno, your social calendar will be filled, or you will experience fun-filled conversations with friends or siblings as Venus sextiles Juno. If single, go to a local fair or singles event – it can be your lucky week to make a connection. As Neptune retrograde happens, this is your time to reflect on your aspirations and to get involved with the community. Focus on service to get inspired. Make practical decisions regarding your spending and learn how to budget for your future when Venus trines Saturn. The New Moon in Cancer prompts fresh starts in learning new skills or communication ventures.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

What does security mean for you, Gemini? Your focus this week will be on how you can claim financial stability while powering up your self-worth. Venus sextile Juno encourages discussions and investments, ensuring security in your material resources. Name your terms. Reflect on your personal beliefs and communication style as Neptune retrogrades, scoping your ideas with philosophical ideals and enhancing self-expression. It is time to accept the life you have built and analyze what needs to change. As Venus trines Saturn this week, you will make sense of your past ideas and be able to utilize them for financial gain. Revisit the root of your passions to help you get started. As an extra boost to your future venture, the New Moon in Cancer initiates a new path for you to pursue stability while gaining confidence in pursuing your goals that align with your heart.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Your birthday month continues, Cancer! Who do you want to be? The early part of the week will grant you cosmic stardust to help you express your true self while nurturing your emotional well-being. As Venus sextiles Juno, your charisma will level up, and your connections will deepen with your local connections. Your voice will strengthen as you communicate from a heartfelt space. The Neptune retrograde will reset your approach to life and help you reignite your sacred self. Begin a meditation practice, go to a sacred place, or start setting goals that involve travel or enhanced study. You also turn over a new leaf as the New Moon shines in your sign, igniting a fresh start in your personal growth and confidence. Believe in your light, and know you shine even stronger as you remain open and receptive to the Universe

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Are you ready to roar loud and proud, Leo? This week will be cathartic regarding how you approach your unhealed insecurities as Venus sextiles Juno, and your intuition and connectedness to the Universe will magnify. You will understand the root of what needs healing and acceptance. Mercury's presence in your sign will power up your voice and grant you the confidence you need to pursue your dreams. The Neptune retrograde upgrades your understanding of how your energy works. Begin your process of inner work or self-care practices that involve vulnerability and energy work. The New Moon in Cancer infuses renewal into your dreams and subconscious realms. Slow down and become selective in how you extend your energy. Know and fall in love with yourself again.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

Are you in love, Virgo? Get ready to open your heart and deepen your connections. It's time to ignite the spark back into your life, and it all begins from the inside. Venus sextile Juno will grant you the space to build solidity in your connections with friends and networks. This week will be golden as you take a chance. A Neptune retrograde in your relationship sector will lift the veil regarding your commitments with partners. Truthful exchanges lead to progression in your story. If you feel stagnancy regarding your aspirations, things will change as the New Moon in Cancer revamps your vitality to pursue your goals. Like a boss, step out of your comfort zone and try a new approach to attract the desired changes.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Get ready to witness a paradigm shift, Libra. Expect to feel magnetic and inspired to take on challenges that will get you one step closer to your goals. Your love planet, Venus, in sextile with Juno, will revamp your profession and elevate you to a different status. As Neptune retrograde begins, it prompts you to slow down and review your daily routines and working environment. What needs to change? As you cater to your mind, body, and spiritual needs, you will witness positive changes in your life. Luckily, the New Moon in Cancer will spark a fresh opportunity in your career. It's time to launch a project, extend a pitch, or step into a more defined position. You are ready.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Do you believe in magic, Scorpio? This week, witness the quintessential upgrades in your connectedness to life and love. Whatever you set your eyes on, your life will begin to pan out better. Venus sextile Juno will extend support and authentic connections with friends or networks. Reach out and express your passions. Neptune retrograde will slow down your processes and enable you to see clearly what you truly desire in love and creative pursuits. Still yourself and observe your inner world to help clear out any unresolved dealings. A new wave of inspiration awaits regarding your personal development and self-improvement. The New Moon in Cancer will empower you to elevate your life by exploring new paths of spirituality and approaches to life. Step out of the mundane, open your heart, and explore the unknown.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Wearing your heart on your sleeve isn't your kryptonite, Sagittarius. It is your strength and outlet in forming bonds with others. This week will extend an open window for you to deepen connections with those who genuinely care for your well-being. Venus sextile Juno will extend its support for you to name your terms with authority figures, and by truthfully expressing your needs, it will lead to promotional opportunities or knowing where you stand in your career. Build your case. Neptune retrograde marks the beginning of you retracing your family connections, reflecting on emotional wounds, and rebuilding your sense of self. The New Moon in Cancer will let you focus on your inner needs and root down your intentions moving forward.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

Lost in translation lately, Capricorn? The good news is that this week, you will have the opportunity to clear the air or hash it out with those you are wondering about. Mercury in Leo will grant cosmic support to you to narrow down the details of what has been confusing you about intimacy or resources. Allow your intuition to be your guide. Neptune retrograde will allow you to slow down your mental processes and help you connect with receptive messages from the Universe. Anything that has been hovering in your imagination will be retrieved seamlessly. Start writing or begin an artistic endeavor to consolidate results. The New Moon in Cancer grants you the chance to turn over a new leaf in committed partnerships. Focus on harmony and integrate empathy in the course of your new chapter.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

If only people can get inside your head and keep up with your brilliance, Aquarius. You will have to fly solo this week and keep doing you. Venus sextile Juno will power up your productivity and ability to strategize your long-term plans, financially or romantically. Take notes about your plans and share them with those you can trust later. Things are about to get interesting as Neptune retrograde will compel you to dial down your spending habits and break free from illusions such as materialism. Focus on the bigger picture and avoid divulging into frivolity. The New Moon in Cancer extends a new approach to your health and daily routines. Now is your chance to begin a wellness goal and rebalance your approach to life.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

Are you ready to take a chance on your heart, Pisces? This week is brimming with signs from the Universe that you have the green light to focus on your desires. As Venus sexiles Juno, your dreams become the source of your strength, and you hold the key to making it happen. It all begins in a single word or step. Neptune retrograde in your sign will enable you to be the channel of your life decisions while helping you face your fears involving who you are and your plans. The New Moon in Cancer initiates new beginnings in your creative endeavors or love story, hinting you to factor in your joy as the source behind your motivation. You have come so far in your journey, and remind yourself that you deserve all the happiness in the world and more. Believe.