Boasting both flavor and nutrition, the Mediterranean diet continues to rise in popularity, with studies showing annual growth rates of 7-8% in the U.S. And with research tied to weight loss, the prevention of heart attacks, and the reduction of other medical risks, the foods associated continue to take center plate!
From olives and feta to seafood, here’s some insight into the lifestyle behind the food and how you can incorporate options into your menu.
Sea the Trends
Geographically, the Mediterranean is considered the countries that border the Mediterranean Sea or those that are in the Mediterranean Basin. Even though cooking styles can differ in every country, some components of the diets in the Mediterranean region include plant-based recipes with a lot of vegetables, cooked in olive oil, and featuring fruits, nuts, legumes, and some fish or dairy. When we think of the word “diet,” we think specifically of the food choices we make. In some of these Mediterranean countries, diet is a central aspect of their way of living.
Zebec™, a specialty Mediterranean brand, named after the 16th-century Mediterranean sailing ship used for commerce and trading, captures the authentic spices, flavors, and culinary influences of the region. One way to highlight the traditions of the Mediterranean in your own dishes is to start at the base with Zebec Greek Seasoning.
To give off that never-ending vacation by the sea taste and feeling, Zebec Greek Seasoning is ideal for spicing up meats and seafood, rice, pitas, salads, and serving as the partner in flavor for dressings, marinades, and dips. Be as bold as the blend itself and zest up your Bloody Mary recipe or your in-house side of fries with some Greek-inspired flair.
Pack the Protein
Though this lifestyle focuses on plant-based proteins, it also highlights entrées featuring fish and seafood. For premium seafood, consider including Bay Winds® fish, shrimp, or scallops to your dishes. Sourced using sustainable methods, each species selected for this elite brand aligns with the mentality of the Mediterranean mindset — high quality, great taste, and inspired by the seaside!
Consider cooking the shrimp in a tomato-wine sauce topped with feta and herbs, and served with crusty bread for a Greek Shrimp Saganaki-inspired meal, or baking Bay Winds fish with tomatoes and olives mixed with capers and herbs for a delectable bite with a herbaceous spice.
Sail into Flavor
The main premise of Mediterranean flavor and ingredients is adding a bold spice with fresh produce and a meal packed with nutrients that together, take flavor to the next level. Some common spices from the Mediterranean palate include basil, bay leaf, coriander, cumin, dill, fennel, garlic, mint, and oregano (just to name a few), and are best when paired with fruits, vegetables, and lentils.
One common offering in Mediterranean cuisine is hummus. If you want to try your own hummus recipe, level up with Zebec Canned Garbanzo Beans. Also known as chickpeas, these high-protein, high-fiber beans are legumes that are pre-cooked and preserved in a can, making them a convenient ingredient or topping for various dishes.
Looking for pre-made options with labor-saving tips back-of-house? It’s all in the dips! Look no further than Zebec Original Hummus and Tzatziki. Typically served with bread, fresh vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter, hummus is also ideal as a substitute for mayonnaise on a sandwich, or as a base for pizza, tostadas, and nachos. The tzatziki is made with an authentic Greek yogurt base, instead of an oil base, making it that much more creamy and craveable.
As a lifestyle that provides fresh flavors and research-backed health benefits, Mediterranean foods and ingredients can be a great way to freshen up your menu this fall. Coming soon, the exclusive Zebec brand will offer an extended portfolio of Mediterranean flavors and products straight to your kitchen. From proteins and dips to seasoned necessities, Zebec can be your go to for the perfect blend of convenience and quality.
