May is National Mediterranean Diet Month, shining a spotlight on heart-healthy meals characterized by the cooking style of countries on the Mediterranean Sea. Fruits, leafy greens, beans and legumes, and fresh fish are some staples of the diet. You can give it a try without packing your bags by following these recipes from Mayo Clinic.
Fresh Tomato Crostini
Serves: 2
INGREDIENTS
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
¹⁄8 cup minced fresh basil 1 teaspoon olive oil
½ clove garlic, minced Freshly ground pepper
2 slices crusty Italian peasant bread, toasted
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine tomatoes, basil, oil, garlic and pepper in a medium bowl. Cover and let stand 30 minutes.
2. Divide tomato mixture with any juices among the toast. Serve at room temperature.
Mediterranean-style Grilled Salmon
INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
½ tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
½ tablespoon minced garlic
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 salmon fillets, each 5 ounces
Cracked black pepper, to taste
2 green olives, chopped
2 thin slices lemon
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare a hot fire in a charcoal grill or heat a gas grill or broiler. Away from the heat source, lightly coat the grill rack or broiler pan with cooking spray. Position the cooking rack 4 to 6 inches from the heat source.
2. In a small bowl, combine the basil, parsley, minced garlic and lemon juice. 3. Spray the fish with cooking spray. Sprinkle with black pepper. Top each fillet with equal amounts of the herb-garlic mixture. Place the fish herbside down on the grill. Grill over high heat.
4. When the edges turn white, after about 3 to 4 minutes, turn the fish over and place on aluminum foil. Move the fish to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat. Grill until the fish is opaque throughout when tested with the tip of a knife and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fish reads 145 degrees (about 4 minutes longer).
5. Remove the salmon and place on warmed plates. Garnish with green olives and lemon slices.
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