Mediterranean Cuisine – A Symbol of Enjoyment in Every Bite

Mediterranean cuisine is considered one of the richest and healthiest cuisines. It has developed through the centuries, and different cultures and customs are present along the Mediterranean coasts. Still, it has always remained true to its essence—simplicity, and love for fresh and homemade food. The essential ingredients of this cuisine, such as olive oil, fruit, vegetables, spices, fish, and whole grains, have formed the foundation of the distinctive Mediterranean flavor, which has become synonymous with healthy eating and enjoyment in every bite.

Olive oil is often called liquid gold because it is a proud representative of Mediterranean culinary wealth. It forms the basis of many dishes—Spanish paella, Greek salads, or Italian seafood specialties—and can also be used to prepare a variety of sauces and fillings, risottos, and marinades, which give it a characteristic, rich aroma.

In addition, the abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables used in the Mediterranean diet is a true natural treasury of vitamins, while fish and seafood, as an indispensable part of it, represent a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Also, spices such as basil, rosemary, and oregano bring freshness to many traditional dishes and introduce special notes that, with their fine balance, captivate even the most discerning gourmets.

With all this in mind, it’s easy to conclude why Mediterranean cuisine inspires many chefs today and extends its influence far beyond the Mediterranean shores. It teaches us to enjoy food and fresh seasonal ingredients and share them with our loved ones. Therefore, we have prepared a simple recipe to help you sail on the most beautiful waves of Mediterranean flavors.

 

SEAFOOD PAELLA

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of short-grain rice
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 4-6 shrimps
• 4-6 mussels with shells
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of ground red pepper
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for decoration

 

Preparation:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan and sauté the red and white onion until translucent. Add the diced red bell pepper and continue to sauté until soft, then stir in the rice well. Pour in the warm broth; add turmeric, ground red pepper, salt, and pepper. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat and continue to cook without stirring until the rice absorbs some of the liquid (about 15 minutes).

Now it’s time to add the shrimp and mussels. Cover them with rice, cover the pan, and cook until the mussels open. After that, remove the pan from the heat and let the paella stand covered for a few more minutes. Decorate with fresh parsley and serve with lemon slices.

Enjoy!