What are the basic foods of the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating that’s based on the traditional cuisines of Greece, Italy and other countries that border the Mediterranean Sea. Plant-based foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, nuts, seeds, herbs and spices, are the foundation of the diet.

What is a typical lunch in the Mediterranean?

The Mediterranean diet focuses on fresh vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, fish, beans, and eggs. A chicken wrap with apples and nuts is a filling Mediterranean-inspired lunch. Almond-stuffed dates are a sweet and crunchy way to get protein and fiber.

What do Mediterranean diet people eat for breakfast?

Spain and Italy: toasted bread + soft cheese + fresh fruit or freshly squeezed fruit juice. Greece: paximadia (bread made from whole wheat, chickpea, and barley flour) + olives + cheese. Syria: tahini yogurt with chickpeas + pickles + sliced radishes. Morocco: fried egg in olive oil + soft cheese + olives + flatbread.

What are the basic foods of the Mediterranean diet? – Related Questions

Can you eat potatoes on Mediterranean diet?

What kinds of foods are included in the Mediterranean diet? You will eat mostly plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables, potatoes, whole-grains, beans, nuts, seeds and extra virgin olive oil.

Can you eat bananas on a Mediterranean diet?

Ideally, you should base your diet on these healthy Mediterranean foods: Vegetables: tomatoes, broccoli, kale, spinach, onions, cauliflower, carrots, Brussels sprouts, cucumbers, potatoes, sweet potatoes, turnips. Fruits: apples, bananas, oranges, pears, strawberries, grapes, dates, figs, melons, peaches.

Can I eat oatmeal on Mediterranean diet?

Oats are a whole grain, which is encouraged on the Mediterranean diet. Low or moderate amounts of cheese, such as brie, feta, ricotta, and Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), are also allowed. All types of fresh fruits, including bananas, are a go on the diet.

How many eggs a day on Mediterranean diet?

Based on their high cholesterol content, the Mediterranean Diet Foundation recommends to consume up to 4 eggs per week, as a healthy alternative to fish or meat [7], and the same amount (2–4 eggs per week) was indicated in the latest Italian dietary guidelines [8].

Do people in the Mediterranean eat eggs?

Eggs are not only a staple of the Mediterranean Diet, but they also play a role in weight management, muscle strength, healthy pregnancy, brain function, eye health and more.

Can you eat scrambled eggs on a Mediterranean diet?

These Olive Oil Scrambled Eggs with Feta and Tomatoes takes only 10 minutes and a handful of ingredients! It’s low-carb, gluten free, and high protein, and perfect for the Mediterranean diet.

Is peanut butter OK on Mediterranean diet?

And as plant-based protein sources that are high in good and unsaturated fats, peanuts and peanut butter are a natural fit within Mediterranean and Flexitarian ways of eating.

What is not allowed on the Mediterranean diet?

The Mediterranean diet is high in plant-based foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Foods not allowed include processed red meats, heavily processed foods, refined grains, alcohol, butter, and refined/processed/hydrogenated oils.

Can you eat bacon on Mediterranean diet?

On the Mediterranean diet, you should minimize your intake of red meat, such as steak. What about processed red meat, such as hot dogs and bacon? You should avoid these foods or limit them as much as possible.

What kind of bread can I eat on the Mediterranean diet?

You can still enjoy bread as part of the Mediterranean Diet, just swap your white bread for whole grains. Whole grain breads and pastas contain more fiber, vitamins and minerals. Whole wheat pitas are a healthier option as they are usually lower in calories.

What kind of cheese is allowed on the Mediterranean diet?

Cheese & Yogurt

Dairy products common to the traditional Mediterranean Diet include: brie, chevre, corvo, feta, haloumi, manchego, Parmigiano-Reggiano, pecorino, ricotta, yogurt (including Greek yogurt).

What snacks can you have on the Mediterranean diet?

Mediterranean Diet Snacks Ideas
  • Nuts and Dried Fruits. Nutrition-rich nuts are filled with fiber, antioxidants, protein, unsaturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Fruits and Vegetables.
  • Legumes like Beans and Chickpeas (yes, HUMMUS!)
  • Greek Yogurt.
  • Early Harvest EVOO and Za’atar Snack.

Can I have popcorn on the Mediterranean diet?

Is popcorn allowed on the Mediterranean diet? Yes, popcorn is a wonderful snack since it’s a whole grain. But top it with a drizzle of olive oil instead of butter. And try seasoning it with herbs and spices instead of too much salt.

What desserts can you eat on the Mediterranean diet?

Please enjoy!
  • Mediterranean Diet Desserts. Greek Almond Cookies.
  • Basboosa (Lebanese Semolina Cake)
  • Italian Fruit Salad.
  • Breakfast Torta with Jam.
  • Italian Chocolate Coffee Cake.
  • Greek Lemon Olive Oil Cake.
  • Rosemary Olive Oil Teacakes.
  • Cinnamon Walnut Apple Cake Baked with Olive Oil.

What is the fastest way to lose weight on the Mediterranean diet?

How to Lose Weight on a Mediterranean Diet – 5 Tips
  1. Eat your main meal early in the day.
  2. Eat vegetables as a main course cooked in olive oil.
  3. You should drink water mostly and sometimes tea, coffee and wine (for adults)
  4. Consume the right amount of olive oil.
  5. Move.