If you have been searching for a diet that is rich in flavor yet still packed full of nutritional benefits, the Mediterranean diet might just be the right one for you. It is a well-known fact that the Mediterranean diet is considered to be one of the healthiest in the world while still promising heaped spoonfuls of flavor. Here is a quick guide to how you can incorporate this diet’s principles into your everyday life with as little frustration as possible. And don’t worry about getting access to Mediterranean sourced products; you can follow this diet with a bit of help from local companies such as Texas Hill Olive Co. and their amazing Texas olive oil.
What Exactly is the Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet is every foodie’s paradise, and it tastes so good that it almost feels like you’re on holiday. The diet originates in – you guessed it, the strip of land that flows alongside the Mediterranean Ocean. It has luscious hills and warm weather in the summery months, with countries such as Spain, Portugal, and Italy forming a trio of the most well-known and frequented holiday destinations.
The diet in each country is similar; hearty vegetables and fruit, fresh seafood, minimally processed foods, whole grains, and of course, the signature healthy fat of choice – extra virgin Texas olive oil. The diet typically avoids too much red meat – instead of consuming it in smaller quantities on the odd occasion. The Mediterranean diet is comprised of balance and flavor. With people in the Mediterranean living long, healthy, and vibrant lives, it is put down to the food they eat daily.
Why is The Diet So Healthy?
Taking a deeper look at the diet, it is clear why many people can manage a range of health conditions such as diabetes and weight issues when actively following this delicious lifestyle. The main reasons for its health benefits can be attributed to:
- Antioxidants – The diet consists of above-ground vegetables such as leafy greens, peppers, squash, artichokes, eggplant, and broccoli, all of which are packed full of natural antioxidants to help combat aging and oxidative damage from everyday life.
- Variety – There is no lack of choice when it comes to following this diet, the wide variety of foods you can eat adds to the overall balance.
- Healthy fats – The primary source of fat is high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). It will form the primary basis of fat in meals with the added benefits from its already superfood status.
- Whole-food-based – Preferring whole grains and plenty of fresh produce, this diet takes a whole-food-based approach to meals. Eating foods in a minimally processed state for the most nutrients possible and with little to no added sugars or saturated fats.
The real secret to this diet lies in its flavor. It’s not a diet; instead, it is a lifestyle change that one can stick to. It covers all bases, healthy ingredients, moderation and balance, and a hearty serving of flavor rolled into one beautiful package.
Rich In Olive Oil, Bold In Flavor
No Italian home is complete without a bottle of EVOO. A quick trip to any Mediterannean country will take you on a journey of flavor, most of which will include some of the best meals made with olive oil. When choosing the right olive oil, stick to extra virgin.
A glance at a recipe from Italy will tell you it is not complete without a drizzle of the finest EVOO, and you are better off sticking to a high-quality option that is packed full of flavor and health benefits.
Finding the Mediterranean in Texas
The key to the diet is farm fresh over mass-produced, with a keen eye for seasonal produce. If you are born and raised in the Lone Star State and want to recreate this diet from the comfort of your own home, look no further than the isles of fresh produce and your local farmer’s markets. You will be able to find all the right ingredients locally, and even a fine bottle of Texas olive oil too!
Farmers’ markets are the number one spot to shop for all your favorite ingredients. It is essential to stick to seasonal, fresh, and next to no processing; this way, you can ensure that every bite is healthy and packed full of flavor. Don’t forget to pick up a bottle of red wine and enjoy a glass with your dinner in true Mediterranean style.
Sourcing Local Texas Olive Oil
It’s not just about flavor when using an EVOO in your cooking. It has a lot to do with the nutrient profile found in each drop of golden liquid. Texas olive oil is a homegrown version of your favorite Italian varieties. You can find high-quality EVOO from local producers such as the Texas Hill Country Olive Co., where it is locally grown and produced along with a range of other Tuscan cooking classics such as balsamic vinegar.