Did you know that Mediterranean cuisine is one of the healthiest in the world? If not, check out more about the Mediterranean diet and food and why it is beneficial.
Mediterranean cuisine involves the food cooked and prepared by the people living near the Mediterranean Basin.
The blend of different flavors of different cultures in this region makes up Mediterranean cuisine.
There are quite similarities between the food prepared by different cultures, but the cuisine can be divided into three regions. First is North African, which happens to be Morocco. Spices play a primary role in the preparation of North African food.
Next is Southern Europe, which comprises Spain, France, and Italy, and their food mostly has to do with lots of herbs and wine. Finally, the Eastern Mediterranean covers Greece, Egypt, Israel, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey.
Generally, though, the Mediterranean diet consists of vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, beans, cereals, grains, fish, and unsaturated fats such as olive oil. It usually includes a low intake of meat and dairy foods. Thus, the Mediterranean diet has been linked with good health, including a healthier heart.
Even if you don’t cook traditional Mediterranean dishes, there is always a way to give your meals a bold and bright Mediterranean twist.
To do that, this is what you’ll need:
- Use quality Extra virgin olive oil regularly.
- Use and eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and legumes.
- Eat moderately lean proteins from fish and some poultry.
- Eat less red meats and sweets.
- Reduce salt and use more fresh herbs, garlic, citrus, and spices.