What Defines Mediterranean Food?
Mediterranean-inspired cuisine comprises healthy meal choices.
Mediterranean food is among the most varied cuisines worldwide due to a rich flavor from the fusion of herbs and spices. And, we can't fail to mention the freshness stemming from the combination of grains and legumes.
The best part? It's among the healthiest meals you can have for sustainable living. Let's go on a magical culinary ride and discover the delightful assortment of healthy food that defines the Mediterranean diet.
What Is Mediterranean Food?
As the name suggests, Mediterranean food has roots near the Mediterranean Sea, where olive trees grow in abundance. Meal preparation typically involves the methods used by the people around the Mediterranean region, including Morocco, Spain, Italy, France, Greece, Israel, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria and Turkey.
Naturally, people from different cultures will have a unique way of preparing and cooking food. All these different flavors from the various societies blend to make up the Mediterranean cuisine. And while there may be some similarities, the foods generally fall into 3 distinct regions:
- North African or the Morocco region. Spices play a central role in food preparations here.
- Southern Europe, including Spain, Italy and France. The preparation of dishes uses a lot of herbs.
- Eastern Mediterranean, where Greece, Israel, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria and Turkey lie. The staple foods for these cultures include vegetables, fruits and grains such as rice.
Main Features
Mediterranean servings usually include fresh foods and great flavors. Meal preparations are simple, with plant food, spices and herbs as popular ingredients.
Common foods on a Mediterranean menu include vegetables, legumes, fruits and lots of olive oil. The consumption of dairy, eggs and meat is moderate, with plates typically featuring dairy-free products and small servings of eggs and meat.
Here are the main characteristics of Mediterranean food:
- The most consumed food is plant-based.
- Olive oil is a top ingredient.
- Food additives include spices, herbs, garlic cloves and onions, rather than salt.
- Sweet products are in moderation.
- It typically requires the use of local products to optimize flavor.
- Preferably, the food consumed should be straight from harvesting for optimal freshness.
Are you looking to try Mediterranean cuisine and possibly be a staunch lover of this food? This Mediterranean-inspired menu from Bonapita embodies the definition of the Mediterranean diet. There's something for every palate, with multiple options for meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans, not forgetting a kids menu for the little ones — we can bet that meal times will be enjoyable for everyone.
To Sum It All Up
Mediterranean food is among the most delicious cuisines worldwide as it has an assortment of foods that give off an exquisite taste, unmatched freshness and rich flavors. And although there isn't one particularly healthy food than the rest, the above guide should serve as an inspiration for your next meal plan. Bonapita is here to deliver sumptuous mediterranean meals right to your doorstep whenever you're ready — Order online today!
