The Best Cheeses To Enjoy on the Mediterranean Diet
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What Kind of Cheese Is Ideal For a Mediterranean Diet?
The Mediterranean diet has grown increasingly popular in recent years, and it's easy to understand why. This way of eating focuses on getting plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats like olive oil, legumes, moderate amounts of dairy and fish, and minimal red meat. These nutrient-dense foods provide our bodies with the vitamins and minerals that keep us healthy, as well as plenty of fiber for good digestion.
But when it comes to cheese, it can be tricky to know what kinds are best for your Mediterranean diet plan. After all, cheese is a big part of many Mediterranean dishes — from creamy feta atop Greek salads to ricotta stuffed into ravioli. So which cheeses should you choose to make sure your meals stay within the guidelines of the dietary style? Let’s take a look.
Types of Cheeses On a Mediterranean Diet
When you're following the Mediterranean eating pattern, go for low-fat or reduced fat types when selecting cheeses. Low-fat cheeses like mozzarella contain fewer calories and saturated fat than their full-fat counterparts — perfect for anyone looking to cut down on unhealthy fats while getting in some delicious foods. Other low-fat varieties that work well in a mediterranean diet include feta, cottage cheese (ideally made without added sugar), quark, parmesan and most ricottas.
In addition to enjoying lower fat cheeses there are also some healthier alternatives that are specifically designed for those looking to enjoy cheese without sacrificing their health goals — such as soy cheeze or vegan cream cheezes made from nuts or peas instead of animal products. Both make excellent replacements for traditional dairy versions in just about any dish!
How To Enjoy Cheese In A Healthy Way On Your Mediterranean Diet
Cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium making it an ideal addition to any balanced meal plan — but if you’re looking to enjoy it within the framework of a mediterranean diet there are some key things you can do:
- Choose lower fat options such as feta over whole milk varieties like cheddar or brie
- Opt for freshly grated cheese if possible since pre-shredded varieties often have fillers added that increase calorie content unnecessarily
- Take care not to use too much; one ounce serving sizes (about the size of two dice) will help you better control portion sizes without detracting from flavor
The Bottom Line On Cheese And The Mediterranean Diet
Cheese is an important part of the overall mediterranean eating pattern so don’t be afraid to include it in your meals! Just remember these tips: Choose low-fat versions whenever possible; use freshly grated versions over pre shredded ones; and control your portions by limiting yourself to one ounce per serving maximum. With these guidelines in mind it won’t be hard at all to enjoy cheesy dishes guilt free alongside all other delicious components that make up this amazing diet!
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