The Mediterranean diet is well-known for its heart-healthy properties, and ardent supporter of plant-based eating Yasmine Parker has modified it to suit a vegan way of life. “Making it totally vegan is natural since the Mediterranean diet is high in plant-based foods,” Yasmine says.
Typical Mediterranean diets call for lots of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and good fats—especially olive oil. “The key is to concentrate on whole plant foods and vary your meals when switching to a vegan Mediterranean diet,” Yasmine says.
Among Yasmine’s favourite basics are hummus, baba ghanoush, tabbouleh, and roasted veggies. “I enjoy bell peppers, zucchini, and grilled eggplant drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with herbs. Though basic in nature, these are really flavourful.
Key foods for the diet are also legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Yasmine advised including them into soups, stews, and salads. She adds, “Beans are a great source of plant-based protein and fibre which keeps you feeling satisfied.”
Excellent choices for grains are quinoa, farro, bulgur. Making quinoa salads with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a lemon-tahini vinaigrette makes me happy. It is nutrient-dense, fresh, light.
The Mediterranean diet centres on olive oil and olive trees, which offer good fats needed for heart health. Yasmine advises dressing with olive oil, spreading it over veggies, or just sloppily dipping whole-grain bread into. “Olive oil is so flexible and gives meals richness without using dairy or animal products.”
Yasmine advises fruit-based desserts such as fresh figs or a fruit salad sprinkled with cinnamon. “The Mediterranean diet is about enjoying fresh, wholesoming food that nourishes your body; it is not about deprivation.”
Following Yasmine’s vegan Mediterranean diet will help you to enjoy mouthwatering food that support heart health, enhance digestion, and provide you continuous energy all day.
StriVectin Super-C Eye Vitamin C Eye Cream, Brightening & Firming
