Known for its numerous benefits, the Mediterranean diet has long been rated as the best diet in the world.
To appreciate the benefits of the foods included in the Mediterranean diet, it is important to expand our understanding beyond their ingredients and to embrace elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle that also contribute to these benefits. Essentially, it’s not just what we eat, but how we enjoy it and with whom we share the experience.
Nutrition, exercise, sleep and togetherness make up this balanced way of life, and preparing, eating and enjoying meals together are key elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Just inviting friends and family around the table for a meal, such as your family’s favorite pasta dish, is all you need to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean lifestyle.
The benefits of coming together around the dinner table are many, ranging from strengthening family bonds and communication to improving overall well-being. In fact, a first-of-its-kind study conducted by researchers at the University of Minnesota and supported by world-leading pasta manufacturer Barilla demonstrated that people experience greater happiness when sharing a meal with others, highlighting the importance of togetherness.
The study, published in the journal Families, Systems, and Health, shows a strong positive correlation between how often people gather around the table for meals and increased connection, reduced depressive symptoms, and improved overall mood.
Semolina pasta is a staple food for many in the Mediterranean region and plays an important role in culinary history, making it a popular ingredient in dishes that fit the Mediterranean lifestyle and dining experiences. For example, recipes for Celentani’s Caprese Pasta Salad and Linguine with Zucchini Carbonara are perfect for sharing, whether you’re entertaining friends and neighbors or enjoying a meal with a special someone.
A high-quality, minimally processed carbohydrate, semolina pasta is naturally low in sodium, a good source of dietary fiber and contains a variety of micronutrients.
“Eating together is a fun and important habit in the Mediterranean lifestyle that really contributes to overall health,” said Michelle Lefebvre, R.D., nutrition and wellness manager for Barilla Americas. “Pasta, a traditional yet versatile food, brings a sense of nostalgia to mealtimes by bringing people together around the table and connecting in an impactful way.”
To find more dishes for the Mediterranean lifestyle, visit barilla.com/recipes
Celentani Caprese Pasta Salad
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of participants: 7
Barilla Protein + Celentani Pasta 1 box
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
2 pints grape tomatoes (mixed color, halved)
4 tablespoons lemon juice
8 basil leaves (sliced into thin strips)
2 cups small mozzarella balls (cut in half)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions and drain. Drizzle the pasta with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place on a baking sheet to cool. Set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the tomatoes, lemon juice, basil, remaining olive oil, and cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then add the pasta and stir.
Linguine with Zucchini Carbonara
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of participants: 8
5 egg yolks
1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, divided
1/2 cup milk
Salt, to taste
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium zucchini, julienned
Barilla Linguine 1 box
1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
Black pepper, to taste
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Combine egg yolks, 1/3 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, and milk in a bowl. Season with salt and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large frying pan and sauté the zucchini.
Cook pasta according to package directions, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
Add pasta and zucchini to skillet and mix. Add egg yolk mixture and 2 tablespoons cooking water and mix well.
Stir in the remaining cheese and mint. Season with salt and pepper.
