Greeks are thought of having an extended lifespan and having a lower rate of disease than people in other areas of the world. This is likely because of their diet, which is rich in seafood, fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and healthy fats. As the traditional Greek diet is closely related to food patterns from neighboring countries, the Mediterranean diet is centered on these cuisines. Research supports that the Mediterranean diet is associated with a reduced risk of heart attack, stroke, diabetes, obesity, and early death.
Greek food Melbourne is some of the best in the world. The flavors and spices are intense, and the food is always fresh. Greek restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. There are also many Greek cafes and bistros throughout Melbourne that offer great food at affordable prices.
This article discusses 6 traditional Greek foods that are super healthy.
1. Hummus
Hummus is a popular dip or goes well with Mediterranean dishes and Middle Eastern cuisine. It has been eaten for thousands of years not only during classical antiquity, but also during the era when Plato and Socrates were together. It is typically made by blending chickpeas, tahini (ground sesame seeds), olive oil, and lemon juice. Hummus is both yummy and nutritious.
Several studies suggest that consuming hummus can be beneficial for weight loss, blood sugar control, and heart health. This includes the fact that the main ingredient in hummus, garbanzo beans, plays a significant role due to its high protein content.
2. Melitzanosalata
In Greek, the word melitzanosalata means eggplant salad, but it is actually a dip. It's made by mixing or mashing roasted eggplants with garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice. It's similar to a dish called baba ghanoush, which is Middle Eastern in origin.
Eggplants provide an array of nutrients and antioxidants that fight against free radicals that form in the body, contributing to the impacts of aging, cancer, and chronic disease.
Eggplants contain a highly effective antioxidant called nasunin. Research indicates that nasunin can help reduce free-radical absorbability and guard brain health. Furthermore, the dip is seasoned with lemon juice and garlic, which are both frequently used in Greek cuisine and are beneficial for human health.
3. Tzatziki
Tzatziki is a popular dip and spread in Greek cuisine. It's very creamy, yet it's low in calories, with about 35 calories in 2 tablespoons. Tzatziki is made with Greek yogurt, cucumbers, and olive oil.
Plain Greek yogurt is creamier and thicker than standard Greek yogurt, since the yogurt has been strained to reduce the water content and prevent spoilage. Historically, the Greeks strained the yogurt to reduce excess water content and stave off spoilage. Straining Greek yogurt also decreases its lactose content and makes it higher in protein. Just 3.5 oz (100 g) of Greek yogurt provide 10 grams of protein.
4. Dolmades
Dolmades are stuffed grape leaves that can be served as an appetizer or main dish. They are usually filled with rice, herbs, and occasionally meat. The filling varies, changing their fat and calorie contents.
Red grape leaves may improve the ability for blood to flow in patients with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which blood has a hard time traveling through the veins. Dolmades are cooked with various herbs and spices. Herbs and spices play an important role in Greek cooking, and they also offer many health benefits.
5. Gigantes plaki
Large white beans are appropriately named gigantes, after a word that means adjective coming from the Greek and meaning bread baked in the wood-fired oven with vegetables. In order to appropriately name the dish, gigante beans are baked in tomato sauce in place of gigantes.
Beans are a good and very nutritious source of protein for anyone on a vegetarian diet. They're also high in fiber and help with weight loss.
6. Avgolemono
Avgolemono is a conventional Greek soup. It's typically made with chicken, lemon, eggs, and orzo pasta or rice. It can be thought of as the Greek version of chicken noodle soup. Chicken soup has been recommended for millennia to help treat colds and the flu.
Interestingly, some studies claim that chicken soup may not just reduce colds and flu symptoms, but perhaps also prevent them. One earlier study found hot water worked better than cold water, but chicken soup was superior at relieving a stuffy nose. However, this study was conducted to determine what was causing the soup.
To sum up, Greek foods make for the perfect post-workout or snack. Greek food is low in calories and high in proteins and healthy fats. This makes them great for bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. It's also a great nutrition for athletes, especially endurance athletes. Greek foods are also rich in minerals and vitamins.
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