People who follow the Mediterranean diet have a longer life expectancy and lower rates of chronic diseases than do other adults. Indeed, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans point to the Mediterranean diet as an example of a healthy-eating plan.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes plant-based foods, such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes and nuts. It replaces butter with healthy fats, such as olive oil and canola oil, and uses herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods. Red meat is limited to no more than a few times a month, while fish should be on the menu twice a week.

The Mediterranean diet is also about enjoying delicious foods — as you'll discover when you try these recipes.

Main dishes

1. Barley and roasted tomato risotto
2. Grouper with tomato-olive sauce
3. Mediterranean-style grilled salmon
4. Pasta with spinach, garbanzos and raisins
5. Polenta with roasted Mediterranean vegetables
6. Tuscan white bean stew
7. Vegetable and garlic calzone

Salads and sides

1. Artichokes alla Romana
2. Bean salad with balsamic vinaigrette
3. Beet walnut salad
4. Braised kale with cherry tomatoes
5. Fresh tomato crostini
6. Roasted red pepper with feta salad

Healthy desserts

1. Almond and apricot biscotti
2. Baked apples with cherries and almonds
3. Berries marinated in balsamic vinegar
4. Poached pears

• Share
• Tweet

Nov. 16, 2018 See more In-depth