Taste Life Blog

While Gary was on another “bucket list trip” rafting the Salmon River in Idaho, I invited myself over to the Thoma home. I love hanging out with Mizz creative Zoe and curious Zack. Julie is always whipping up a new healthy dish. Every time she cooks for me I just have to have the recipe. This recipe is easy and quick and healthy. Perfect for a hot summer day and lounging by the pool!

4 pita breads
1 cup spicy salsa
Chicken cubes, cooked (can be poached, sautéed or grilled)
1/2 cup Guacamole
1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded

Preheat the oven to 425°. Place pitas on baking sheet and bake until crisp – about 5 minutes. Spread guacamole on pita. Top with chicken, salsa and shredded cheese. Lower temperature of the oven to 350° and bake 5 more minutes or until the pita bread has reached desired crispness and cheese is melted. Serve immediately with warm conversation and a fruit salad. Serve whole, or cut into slices.

Mediterranean Diet Pyramid

Julie’s Chicken Pitas are perfect example of the Mediterranean Diet.

The Mediterranean diet refers to the foods and drinks traditionally eaten by people living in the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. (Spain, southern France, Italy, Greece, Crete and parts of the Middle East.)

High-quality fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes, unrefined cereals, olive oil, cheese and yogurt are eaten most days, as is fish. The diet only includes rare (monthly) servings of meat and infrequent (weekly) servings of poultry, eggs and sweets. Wine is drunk in moderation.

These healthy eating habits have helped these countries have lower incidence of cancer, heart disease and diabetes, as well as a longer life expectancy.

The traditional Mediterranean diet is part of a whole cultural package, which includes regular physical activity and strong social and family bonds, and shared family meals. Food is more than nourishment, and is looked upon as pleasure making every meal a celebration.

Daily

• Breads, Pasta, Rice, Couscous, Polenta, Bulgur, Other Grains and Potatoes
• Fruits, Vegetables, Beans, Other Legumes and Nuts
• Olive Oil
• Cheese and Yogurt

A few times a week

• Fish, Poultry, Eggs, Sweets

A few times a month

• Red meat

Take the first step tomorrow by eating real food that is not processed.