Healthy Entertaining the Mediterranean Way

The Mediterranean Diet has long been praised for helping to decrease the risk of heart disease, depression and dementia when compared to the standard American diet. In recent years it has taken a backseat in the media to the new kids on the block like the Paleo Diet but it still offers a great option for anyone who is looking to eat healthier as it places emphasis on eating fresh produce, lean meats like fish, whole grains and healthy fats.

Something that sets the Mediterranean Diet/Lifestyle apart from others is the emphasis on eating relaxed meals with the family. Having close social relationships increases your sense of well being, purpose, and promotes positive mental health. There is even evidence that close relationships help to boost immune function, protect against disease, and help people recovery after surgery. (For more, check out the book The Blue Zones, Second Edition: 9 Lessons for Living Longer From the People Who’ve Lived the Longest by Dan Buettner). In the spirit of nurturing healthy eating with your social life, below you will find a Mediterranean inspired meal that is great for entertaining. Enjoy!

Rosemary Chicken Thighs

By Emeals.com Paleo Dinner Plan

Ingredients
2 tsp dried crushed rosemary
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper
1 lemon, cut in half
1 lb bone-in chicken thighs, skinned
2 Tbsp coconut oil, melted

Instructions
Combine rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper. Squeeze lemon over chicken thighs; sprinkle with rosemary mixture. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Place chicken on a grill rack rubbed with oil. Grill, covered with grill lid, 30 to 35 minutes or until chicken is done, turning occasionally.

Bite Sized Greek Salad

image & recipe credit: CookingWithMyKid.com

Ingredients
1 pack cherry tomatoes (Red, Yellow or a Mix for variety)
2-3 cucumbers, cut into slices
1 jar kalamata olives, pitted
Marinated feta cheese cubes
Toothpicks

Instructions
Gather ingredients and toothpicks. Assemble as shown in the photograph above. If tomatoes or cucumbers are too big, cut them in half. This is a great item to for entertaining as it can be assembled ahead of time.

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