Try these classic dishes today
You are probably well-aware of the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet being recommended by doctors and dietitians worldwide. Traditional, procured fresh, involving minimal processing of food, brimming with attributes that pander to our senses, it is not for nothing that Mediterranean has been accepted as the ‘gold standard’ for eating patterns that provide a lifetime of health and wellness.
For health benefits or plain great taste, the Mediterranean diet is already a favourite and here to stay having caught the fancy of millions everywhere. But, what’s the deal with Mediterranean seafood? Did you know that this too ensures a healthy body other than providing a sensual culinary extravaganza? According to a study published by Division of Agriculture, Research and Extension, University of Arkansas System
- Fish and shellfish are important sources of healthy protein for Mediterranean populations.
- Cold water fish such as tuna, herring, sardines, and salmon are rich in essential heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.
- Shellfish and crustaceans, including mussels, clams, and shrimp, have similar benefits.
- Fish and shellfish are not typically battered and fried in Mediterranean countries like they are in the United States.
It is interesting to note that in the Mediterranean diet there is greater emphasis on consuming fish and seafood vis-à-vis meat, poultry, or eggs.
Fish is laden with protein and Omega 3. Omega 3 is full of benefits as an essential component of our cell walls and for keeping the heart, lungs, blood vessels and immune system running well.
As for protein, there are more than a dozen science-backed reasons emphasising why we must consume it every day.
Apart from proteins and healthy fats, seafood packs quite a punch with vitamins and minerals.
The Mediterranean diet recommends eating fish twice weekly at the very least. Dishes with fish like tuna, herring, salmon, and sardines and seafood with crabs, lobsters, and shrimp are popular choices. Here, we have a brief roundup of some delicious Mediterranean seafood dishes that you may be ready to try if you already haven’t. They’re all bursting with goodness and laden with great smells and flavours.
Mediterranean Salmon: A simple recipe with salmon as the hero, this dish is seasoned with lemon, garlic, and herbs like balsam, basil, and cilantro, and then put into the oven for a nice broil until the fish is flaky and brown on both sides. It is served with roasted vegetables, legumes, or a salad to make it a complete meal.
Mediterranean Fish Stew: This wholesome stew is brimful with flavour from the fish, tomatoes, olives, and herbs in it. Quick and easy to make, it’s great for any night of the week. A big splash of lemon juice adds to its flavour and aroma. Made with any firm white fish, it is served with toasted garlic bread on the side.
Mediterranean-Style Crab Cakes: This delicacy carries the distinctive taste of crab meat – plump and sweet, that is held by a binder that does not subdue its flavour. Succulent and luscious, these are enhanced with the addition of yogurt and diced vegetables. They are great for any meal and may be served with a salad or roasted potatoes.
Crispy Baked Tilapia: When you’re in the mood for a crispy fish dish, you cannot miss the Crispy Baked Tilapia. Here, Tilapia fillets are coated well in a mixture of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Then they are nicely baked until golden brown all over. It is usually served with a side salad or a plate of roasted potatoes.
Before we wind up, a suggestion – If you’re in Kolkata or thereabouts and feel like tucking in some soul-stirring Mediterranean food, you don’t have to take the next flight out to the region or make a booking in some exclusive Mediterranean restaurant. All you need to do is take a ride down to Chapter 2 off Southern Avenue. From Tuscan Butter Salmon, Prawn Risotto, Crab Cake to Poached Salmon, you can enjoy them all and more in a sumptuous retro environment. There’s a whole menu of coastal staples waiting to be savoured.
