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Images of Ikaria, Greece appear courtesy of Blue Zones.
In fact, people there live 10 years longer on average than those in the rest of Europe and America. One in 3 lives into their 90s. And they also have much lower rates of cancer and heart disease. They suffer less depression and dementia. And they are active well into their 90s.
One of the keys to their happy life is the Mediterranean way of eating. They do not follow a “diet.” Rather, they and other Mediterranean cultures are living a healthy life. Eat Like the GreeksThe Mediterranean diet involves:
It’s not about just the food, but also the act of making meals and enjoying them among family and friends. The act of cooking, eating and cleaning up a meal is something that is done with others.
A large recent study showcased the value of the Mediterranean way of eating. The results were so telling that researchers stopped the study early so the control group could also enjoy the diet’s benefits. Some of the researchers even started eating that way, too.
Groups like the American Heart Association and The American Diabetes Association even back this approach to eating.
But keep in mind, eating this way is not a cure-all. You can still pack on the pounds if you eat too much. Exercise should still be a priority in a healthy life.
You don’t have to take a trip for a taste of the Greek life. Try this recipe to enjoy Mediterranean food at home:
Chickpeas with Sun-Dried TomatoesPrep Time: 15 minutesServings: Four
Ingredients1 red onion, small, sliced into rings2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, diced1 medium tomato, chopped2½ cups chickpeas, canned, rinsed and drained1 tablespoon olive oil½ cup low-sodium vegetable stock1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and diced
DirectionsWarm the oil in a large, nonstick frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and rosemary and cook, stirring frequently, for two to three minutes or until tender. Add the stock stock and chopped tomatoes. Cook for three to four minutes, or until all the liquid has evaporated. Stir in the chickpeas, sun-dried tomatoes and vinegar. Cook for one to two minutes, or until heated through.
Originally published March 16, 2015: Revised 2019
Why aren't the nutritional facts included?
Ross Blackstone , are you reading my mind? One of my next Quick Bites video blogs is on making your own hummus. It is sooooo easy to do and , yes, it is healthy. Hummus is a good source of monounsaturated fats, which are the good fats. If you want a little extra flavor up the garlic, add fresh herbs or even sub in edamame. Just like everything else, it is all about portion control.
Tammy, maybe you can help solve an ongoing debate I've been having with my friends. Hummus: Healthy or not?? I love it, but can't imagine that it's healthy with Tahini.... right?? (I've tried to make it at home with just a little bit of olive oil, but of course it doesn't taste as good =)