Mediterranean cuisine refers to food that originated in – and is mostly commonly enjoyed in – the areas around the Mediterranean Sea.
It is characterized by an emphasis on fresh produce, olive oil, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seafood.
The concept of “Mediterranean cuisine” was introduced by the food writer Elizabeth David in 1950, based on the idea of the availability of the olive tree in regions where this type of food abounds.
But while a relatively new concept, Mediterranean-style cuisine is thousands of years old and one of the most popular types of cooking enjoyed around the world today.
What countries make up Mediterranean cuisine?
There is no exact definition of this, but most people think of the following countries when they think of Mediterranean cuisine: Spain, Italy, Greece, France and to a lesser extent Portugal. There are also nations like Egypt, Turkey and Lebanon with Arab-Mediterranean influences.
What is considered Mediterranean food?
Mediterranean food is all about favoring healthy fats over processed sugars and high fructose foods.
In general, you’ll eat:
- Quality whole-grain pastas and rice
- Beans and nuts (lentils, chickpeas, peanuts)
- High-quality fruits and vegetables (avocados, olives, asparagus)
- Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids
- A small amount of high quality meat
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Cheeses and yogurts
- Little to no processed foods and sugary drinks
What are the benefits of the Mediterranean diet?
Experts believe the Mediterranean diet has many benefits. In particular, it can help:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Keep blood sugar levels stable
- Improve the gut microbiome and support digestion, as well as skin health
- Lower the risk of cardiovascular disease
Diets at the very opposite end of this scale, including many modern diets, are disruptive to our gut microbiome and include heavily processed foods high in fructose, corn syrup and other modified sugars/flavor enhancers.
In short, the Mediterranean diet is based on the simple principle that you should eat high-quality whole foods available to you. The beauty of modern trade is that it’s now possible to enjoy a high-quality Mediterranean diet in Dubai, the UAE as a whole, and in many parts of the globe as well.
Mediterranean cuisine in Dubai
Looking for Mediterranean cuisine in Dubai? Lucky Fish offers a fantastic menu with Mediterranean options that abound.
As the name of the restaurant suggests, fish is the order of the day, but there is also a robust selection of meats and salads.
Enjoy the likes of Mediterranean sardines, foie gras, nicoise salads and more.
For dessert lovers, there are plenty of options to enjoy: everything from a delicious semifreddo to a tiramisu, cannoli and sorbet selection.
Lucky Fish: Your Mediterranean getaway
At Lucky Fish, we’re inspired by the flavors of Europe, and our goal is to bring this simple – yet delicious – style of cooking to your doorstep. If you’re looking for French cuisine in Dubai, or Italian cuisine in Dubai, we have you covered.
Our interiors have been tastefully designed to transport you to a more remote time in history, with 19th century-style French chandeliers adorning the ceiling, and laid-back furnishings that’ll make you feel right at home.
Whether you’re living in Dubai or visiting the city on holiday, make a reservation with us today and enjoy all the Mediterranean flavors this fascinating city has to offer.
