Let's dive into the fascinating world of the Mediterranean diet and explore how it influences the daily eating habits of Suzy Karadsheh, a busy mom and founder of The Mediterranean Dish.
A Taste of the Mediterranean
Suzy's culinary journey began in Port Said, Egypt, where the local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Egyptian, Greek, Turkish, and Italian flavors. This cultural melting pot sets the stage for her unique approach to cooking and eating.
Savory Start to the Day
One of the most intriguing aspects of Suzy's diet is her savory breakfast. She explained, "I grew up with a savory breakfast, so we don't do sugary breakfasts in this house very much." Her go-to breakfast is a unique twist on the traditional sweet potato: she roasts sweet potatoes in advance, stores them in the fridge, and then grills them with a bit of olive oil. This is served with fried eggs, chopped cucumber and tomatoes, and feta cheese. It's a hearty and flavorful way to start the day.
The Mediterranean Grain Bowl
For lunch, Suzy keeps it simple with leftovers or a Mediterranean grain bowl. She emphasizes the importance of whole grains in the Mediterranean diet, which are a fantastic source of fiber. Her favorites include freekeh, a roasted durum wheat with a savory and smoky flavor, and farro, an ancient Italian grain. These grains are often paired with roasted veggies and hummus, creating a nutritious and satisfying meal.
Dinner: A Mediterranean Twist
Dinner is where Suzy's creativity shines. This summer, she's been enjoying fish or chicken with a Greek salad. Her fish recipe is a delicious oven-baked lemon, garlic cod, coated in a flavorful sauce and cooked to perfection. She also loves experimenting with marinades for grilled chicken, drawing inspiration from various Mediterranean countries. One day it might be harissa, a Tunisian hot chili paste, and another it could be a Greek oregano, lemon juice, and olive oil blend.
The Power of Plants
Suzy's diet aligns with the recommendations of gut health experts, who suggest aiming for 30 different types of plant foods per week. This diversity promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to overall health. Her use of herbs and spices adds an extra layer of flavor and contributes to this plant-rich diet.
A Joyful Way of Eating
What makes Suzy's approach to the Mediterranean diet so appealing is her emphasis on joy and flexibility. She said, "It's a joyful way to eat. It is not a restrictive way to eat." This mindset is refreshing and encourages a healthy relationship with food.
Conclusion
Suzy Karadsheh's daily diet is a testament to the delicious and healthy principles of the Mediterranean diet. Her creative recipes and emphasis on whole foods showcase a balanced and enjoyable approach to eating. It's a reminder that healthy eating can be a delightful and flavorful experience.
