Think Mediterranean For A Slimmer Waistline

Jim Romanoff – Looking for a better way to eat? Think Mediterranean. Nicci Micco, a nutrition editor at EatingWell magazine, says the common sense (and delicious) Mediterranean diet not only is packed with healthy nutrients, but also is great for your waistline.

And while a trip to the region would be nice, following a Mediterranean-style diet is easy anywhere. Micco says the primary guidelines are:

•  Eat plenty of produce, as many as seven to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

•  When possible, substitute fish or lean poultry for red meat. Avoid the highest fat meats such as sausage and bacon.

•  Eat at least two meals of fish or shellfish a week.

•  Season foods with herbs and spices rather than salt.

•  Substitute whole grains for processed ones whenever you can. Whole-grain breads, brown rice and other grains such as barley and bulgur are flavorful and filling.

•  Use extra-virgin olive and canola oils instead of animal fats, such as butter. Both are high in healthy fats.

This recipe for whole-grain rotini pasta with no-cook tomato sauce is a simple and tasty example of the Mediterranean diet principles.

The uncooked sauce is perfect for when tomatoes are in season. It’s seasoned with fresh basil and oregano along with scallions and a touch of minced garlic. Be sure to rinse the capers to wash away some of the extra salty brine they are packed in.