Healthy Greek Food

Greek cuisine has a long and rich history. Many of the Greeks' traditional foods had religious and philosophical meanings. Ancient Greeks never ate meat unless it was sacrificed to a god. They also believed that certain vegetables were either clean or dirty. Today, Greek food and culture has evolved into a very healthy and beneficial way to eat. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Greek Salad

The traditional Greek salad is loaded with heart-healthy leafy greens and tomatoes rich in antioxidants. It is topped with feta cheese, which is low in fat and easy to digest. The black olives and olive oil dressing are high in mono-saturated fat which raises HDL or good cholesterol levels and lowers the LDL or artery-clogging cholesterol.

Eggplants

Moussaka and melitzana salata (eggplant dip) are made with antioxidant-potent eggplants. Nasunin, found in the skin of the eggplant, protects the body from free radicals and also guards the fats in brain cell membranes. Eggplants also contain chlorogenic acid which helps lower cholesterol and contains anti-cancer properties. Eggplants are high in fiber, potassium, copper and vitamin B1.

Grape Leaves

Grape leaves are frequently used in Greek dishes as a wrapper for rice and meat. They are extremely low in calories and contain vitamin C, E, A, K, B6, niacin, iron, fiber, riboflavin, folate, calcium, magnesium, copper and manganese.

Spanakopita

Spanakopita is the tradition Greek spinach pie. Spinach is plentiful in Vitamins K, C, B2, B6, A, manganese, folate, manganese, folate, magnesium. iron, calcium, potassium, and fiber.

Garbanzo beans

Revithosoupa and other soups and many Greek stews are based upon the staple garbanzo beans (chickpeas). These beans are very high in fiber, and they are a good source of protein, manganese, folate, copper, phosphorus, and iron.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is eaten alone, with fruit, in a dip, or in some dishes. This yogurt improves intestinal health, helps build string bones, lowers blood pressure and may even help with weight loss.