Phenomenal flavor, striking colors and signature freshness best describe the medley of taste that makes Mediterranean cuisine a go-to dish for the discerning diner.
So what exactly is Mediterranean cuisine? And why is it so popular? First and foremost… Mediterranean food is visually appealing, brilliantly delicious and most importantly… It’s good for you too! With this in mind, it’s no wonder why a Mediterranean menu is so sought-after.
Mediterranean cuisine is made from the freshest ingredients that include wholesome fruits, vegetables, whole grains and breads, legumes, seafood, nuts and seeds and olive oil. Considering the food we’re referring to spans the Mediterranean Sea – countries of influence include Spain, Greece, Southern Italy and Turkey. This makes for an eclectic origin with a vast assortment of dishes, inspired by everything from European pastas and wines to Middle Eastern yogurts and flatbreads.
Fresh products, pronounced flavors and simple preparation are the cornerstone of Mediterranean cuisine. For the most part, it consists of plant food and minimally processed ingredients where herbs and spices are essential ingredients.
Characteristics of Mediterranean Cuisine
- It is generally plant-based.
- Meat products are also seldom used and consumed in moderation.
- Always contains a variety of fresh ingredients
- sweet products are used sparingly
- A common ingredient is olive oil
- Herbs and spices, onions and garlic are used as an alternative to salt
Healthy & Happy
Choosing mediterranean food as part of your daily lunch menu will not only present a much desirable freshness, color and variety to your every day eating but also welcome a number of health benefits to give you that extra bounce in your step
Did You Say Healthy Fat!?
A number of studies have proven that adopting a Mediterranean lunch diet can reduce the risk of heart disease.
This is due to the healthy fats such as monounsaturated fats present in the food. These types of fats have positive effects on cholesterol and can be found in olive oil, nuts and avocado.
In addition, you will also find a healthy amount of omega-3 in Mediterranean cuisine. This type of healthy fat promotes lower triglycerides which help control blood pressure.
Improved Digestive System
By eating the correct amount of fruits, veggies, and grains in a Mediterranean diet, you’ll get soluble and insoluble fiber:
When fiber is a regular part of your diet it can help your digestive system by balancing your intestinal flora and ultimately making you feel full for longer and limiting the absorption of grains, carbohydrates and bad cholesterol.
Trove of Antioxidants
An important source of antioxidants for your body comes from consuming the fruits and vegetables found in a mediterranean diet:
Foods such as oranges, red fruit, red wine, flax and sunflower seeds, as well as chickpeas and lentils are part of this cuisine and will add value as antioxidants for the body.
Some of the most important health benefits of an antioxidant-rich diet come from strengthening the immune system and even reducing the signs of aging.
Protection Against Type 2 Diabetes
Studies indicate that low carbohydrate consumption in this diet can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by as much as 30%.
Most of the food in this diet has a low to moderate glucose index meaning fruits, veggies, fish and nuts.
These foods keep your blood sugar levels stable and limit episodes of hyperglycemia, which reduces the risk of diabetes.
Food for Thought!
Based on a series of studies we now know that people who enjoy a Mediterranean diet are at a 33% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease due to the nutrients and vitamins present in the food. It’s also now known that this cuisine lessens the risk of developing neurodegenerative disease.
19 Cleveland would love for you to discover this eclectic and generously delicious cuisine so you can include it in your diet. This is why we’re so thrilled to share the health benefits, essential ingredients and of course… our Mediterranean Lunch Menu for you to browse.