You may have heard the buzz about the Mediterranean diet being hailed as one of the best in the world. Maybe you’re wondering why, or perhaps you’re just looking for the best Mediterranean diet cookbook on the market.

We’re here today to tell you all about why you should consider the Mediterranean way of eating, and why The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen is a literary treasure trove of recipes that are perfect for anyone looking to delve into this incredibly heart-healthy diet.

What is the Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean diet is a way of eating inspired by the traditions of cultures living around the Mediterranean Sea, and it’s big on whole, minimally-processed foods like fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, as well as healthy fats like olive oil. Because this diet is so rich in plant-based foods, it’s both nutritious and environmentally sustainable.

Here are the main focuses of the Mediterranean diet:

1. Healthy Fats: While other diets may shy away from fats, that’s not the case with the Mediterranean diet at all! In fact, this diet encourages eating healthy fats (specifically unsaturated fats) like those found in olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish. The reason is that these fats are known for their heart-protective benefits, and it doesn’t hurt that they’re also a staple of Mediterranean cooking.
2. Whole Grains: Whole grains can be found in whole-grain bread, brown rice, and barley. The Mediterranean diet prioritizes these over the refined grains found in things like white bread, white rice, and flour tortillas. Whole grains are loaded with fiber, which helps with digestion and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
3. Lean Proteins: The Mediterranean diet doesn’t shy away from meats either, but it does emphasize the need for lean sources of protein like fish and poultry. There’s a big emphasis on seafood in particular, because it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Red meat can be consumed on this diet, but less frequently and in smaller portions.
4. Plant-Based Foods: Perhaps the biggest part of the Mediterranean diet comes in the form of veggies, fruits, legumes, and nuts, because they contain loads of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to benefit your overall health and prevent disease.
5. Moderate Dairy: In the Mediterranean diet, dairy products are eaten very moderately, and when they are, it’s usually in the form of cheese and yogurt as a way to add a source of protein and calcium.
6. Flavorful Herbs and Spices: Instead of being salt-heavy, Mediterranean dishes gravitate toward the use of herbs and spices to add flavor. It’s a great way to create flavorful foods that are also rich in nutrients.
7. Wine in Moderation: The Mediterranean is known for its world-renowned wines, so you can’t have a Mediterranean diet without a little red wine! With an emphasis on moderation and enjoyment, specifically with meals, a little wine consumption is encouraged because of its association with improved heart health.
8. Sweets and Red Meat in Moderation: Don’t want to give up sweets or red meat? You don’t have to on the Mediterranean diet. Just be sure to make them very occasional treats rather than daily staples of your eating habits.

With the Mediterranean diet, it’s not just about what you eat, but how you eat. Meals are to be enjoyed slowly, with family and friends as often as possible, and in a relaxed environment. This part of the Mediterranean lifestyle is believed to contribute not only to improved quality of life, but also to the diet’s health benefits, like lower risk of heart disease, optimal blood pressure, and better weight management.

Photo: Amazon

Why We Love The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook

We love this #1 best-selling cookbook for a few reasons.

In line with the Mediterranean diet, it focuses its recipes on healthy fats, whole grains, lean proteins and plant-based foods. It features over 500 kitchen-tested, easy-to-follow recipes from Turkey, Lebanon, Morocco, Egypt, and so much more. It also contains in-depth chapters on healthy ingredients like beans and veggies, and prioritizes seafood over lean meat and poultry. 

Rather than focusing on restrictive eating like so many other diets, the Mediterranean diet is all about healthy choices. Aligned with this notion, the book covers detailed info on wholesome ingredients you can find in almost any supermarket, from whole grains to spice blends, and so much more. It’s also got some amazing insight on meal planning, entertaining guests, and even a guide to building a comprehensive Mediterranean pantry!

Most of the healthy recipes found within this incredible book take less than 45 minutes to make, which makes it perfect for home cooks seeking busy weeknight dinner recipes.

Looking to explore new recipes or just want to stick to a Mediterranean meal plan? The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook has got you covered. It keys into the small changes you can make to achieve good health, as well as how to simply enjoy life with good food and great company. If you’re new to Mediterranean cooking, this comprehensive cookbook is the ultimate guide to building a Mediterranean-style eating plan.

Embrace the Mediterranean Lifestyle

The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook is a whole lot more than just a collection of recipes. It’s a celebration of the Mediterranean way of living and a sharing of traditional cuisine with the world. With its focus on whole foods, balanced meals, and bold flavors, this comprehensive guide gives you a practical look into how to improve the health and well-being of the entire family. 

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