Here's what you probably already know about the Mediterranean diet: It's filled with tons of healthy fish, vegetables and grains, it's great for your heart (and body overall) and it's ideal for those of you who love carbs. And guess what? All of these things are true.
Mediterranean diets have been linked to all kinds of health benefits, including lowering the risk of Alzheimer's disease, improving brain health and preventing certain artery diseases. And with a rich selection of ingredients to choose from like olive oil, greens and whole grains, to name a few, there are plenty of meal (and snack) possibilities. For drinks, red wine is a Mediterranean diet favourite.
Ranked as one of the healthiest ways to eat, this diet has also been linked to weight loss and puts an emphasis on eating wholesome fresh foods.
And in case you missed it, last week we packed tofu.
Here's what you need to buy this week, while the other necessary ingredients (like pepper, salt and oils) are likely already in your kitchen.
- Quinoa
- Red onion
- Lemons
- Kalamata olives
- Cucumber
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Feta
- Chicken
- Tomatoes
- Basil leaves
- Penne pasta
- Garlic
- Brown lentils
- Thyme
- Parsley
- Dab fish
- Bacon
- Pine Nuts
- Halibut
- Chicken stock
Pack It: Mediterranean Recipes
Monday: Mediterranean Salad
Instead of using a traditional bed of greens, this salad uses quinoa and fresh lemon juice. Get the full recipe from Skinny Taste here.
Tuesday: Mediterranean Pasta
With kalamata olives, feta cheese and zucchini, this is a fun twist on a typical pasta dish. Get the recipe from Live Better America here.
Wednesday: Mediterranean Lentil Soup
Lentils are a Mediterranean diet staple. This recipe uses brown lentils and seven other ingredients you probably have in your kitchen. Get the recipe from My Halal Kitchen here.
Thursday: Mediterranean-Style Dab
Mediterranean diets heavily focus on vegetables and fish, as opposed to meats. This recipe includes olives, tomatoes and pine nuts. Get the recipe from Jamie Oliver here.
Friday: Mediterranean Fish And Couscous
Have it for dinner or chop up the fish and make a couscous salad. This recipe takes about 30 minutes to make. Get the recipe from Kitchen Daily here.
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