11 Dishes for a Mediterranean Diet

Many of our food and travel fantasies center around crystal seas, sunny days, and simple meals enjoyed while languishing on the coasts of Greece and Italy, those Mediterranean Shangri-Las whose residents seem to have mastered the art of living. And now, we have science to back us up. 

Researchers have now proven that the Mediterranean diet -- full of fish, olive oil, beans, nuts, and fresh produce -- decreases the risk of heart disease, which is great news for our hearts and taste buds alike. In celebration of these findings, we've compiled a list of simple, flavorful recipes that feature healthy fats, fish, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. And in honor of Italy's passion for dessert, there's even Olive Oil Gelato. Ciao, bella.

Aromatic Poached Salmon with Rye and Caper Breadcrumbs by gingerroot

Olive Oil Poached Fish or Shellfish by amanda

Red Leaf Salad with Roasted Beets, Oranges and Walnuts by Theresa Parker

Patricia Wells' Green Lentil Salad Recipe by Genius Recipes

Greek Salad with Fennel by merrill

Minestrone Soup by Foodwriter97426

Pasta con Sarde by blanka.n

Farro with Roasted Sweet Potato, Kale and Pomegranate Seeds by Ann S

Meg's Marinated Mushrooms by hardlikearmour

Preserved Lemons (a how-to!)

Olive Oil Gelato by amanda

Looking to make your diet more Mediterranean? Start with these 10 fish recipes.