The Mediterranean Diet: Is It Really Healthy?

In 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, the United States News & World Report ranked the Mediterranean diet at the top of healthy meal options. This global recognition is mainly due to Mediterranean health benefits, including weight regulation, heart protection, and cancer reduction. The diets also contain plant oils, nuts, fish, fruits, and vegetables, also known to boost the immune system. 

What is a Mediterranean Diet?

The Mediterranean Diet is a dietary pattern inspired by the traditional eating habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It typically emphasizes consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and olive oil. It also includes moderate amounts of fish and poultry, limited red meat, and an average consumption of dairy products.

Health Benefits of Mediterranean Diets

Below are the health benefits of Mediterranean diets and why health professionals highly recommend them.

• Heart health: The Mediterranean diet is rich in monounsaturated fats from olive oil and nuts. These fats can help improve heart health by reducing harmful cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease.
• Reduced risk of chronic diseases: The diet’s emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provides a wide array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These components help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and certain types of cancer.
• Weight management: The Mediterranean diet is balanced and focuses on whole foods, aiding weight management. Its high fiber content helps you feel fuller for longer, reducing overeating and supporting weight loss or maintenance.
• Brain health: The Mediterranean diet includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fatty fish (salmon, sardines). These fats are essential for brain health, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders.
• Inflammation reduction: The diet’s components, such as olive oil and fish, contain anti-inflammatory properties. By reducing chronic inflammation, the risk of various diseases, including heart disease and arthritis, can be mitigated.
• Digestive health: The diet’s focus on whole grains, vegetables, and fruits provides a good amount of dietary fiber, promoting a healthy gut by supporting regular bowel movements. It also fosters a diverse gut microbiome.
• Diabetes management: The Mediterranean diet’s emphasis on whole grains, legumes, and low glycemic index foods helps regulate blood sugar levels. This makes it beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk.

Visit Greco to Enjoy the Best of Mediterranean Meals

It’s important to note that while the Mediterranean diet offers numerous health benefits, individual needs can vary. Thus, it would help if you visited a place like Greco, with diverse diet options for various needs in a fast-casual setting. Get ready for the best meal you have ever had!

4 Fun Facts About Greek Cuisine

We put together a list of facts about Greek cuisine. Keep reading below to learn why Greek food is unique and popular worldwide! Visit Greco in Boston, MA, to try our authentic, fresh Greek cuisine.

Champions of Olive Oil

Olive oil consistently receives praise for being a star of the Mediterranean diet. Many scientists have proven that olive oil helps to prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cancer if consumed regularly. Olive oil plays a key role in Mediterranean food – particularly Greek food. Greeks take great pride in that their ancestors were, in all likelihood, the first people to plant olive trees in the Mediterranean region, including France, Italy, and Spain. Greek cooking utilizes olive oil in almost everything, adding rich flavor to every meal

The Story of Potatoes in Greece

The Greek story of potatoes states that Greece’s first governor, Ioannis Kapodistrias, wanted to introduce potatoes into the beautiful country. Legend has it that he ordered potatoes that were to be given for free, but the Greek communities showed no interest in this exotic crop. He thought of a trick. He ordered potatoes to be unloaded in public display and guarded by security. They instructed the guards to look the other way if locals tried stealing the potatoes. The plan was crowned with success. The Greeks saw the potatoes as valuable and soon began stealing them all – quickly, they fell in love with the new exotic crop.

Mediterranean lifestyle

It isn’t just about the Greek cuisine for many communities in Greece. This region shares other characteristics with southern European countries like Italy and Spain, including the importance of the dinner table and hospitality. Greeks eat their main meal of the day at lunchtime, usually around 2 pm, and don’t usually eat dinner until around 9-10 pm, later than the Italians but slightly earlier than the Spanish. They also greatly value the importance of philoxenia – the concept of hospitality for strangers. 

Little Meat, Lots of Vegetables

Greece’s rocky terrain and climate made it much easier for sheep and goats rather than cattle, so the most traditional meat and dairy products originated from those animals. For centuries, pork, poultry, rabbit, and seafood were considered luxuries and typically only used for a special occasion – or in the old times, for the high class. Vegetables, therefore, were the primary menu options across Greece. Fresh vegetarian dishes are priceless, with plenty of vegetables growing in the region. For most words nowadays, meat is a side dish or an extra add-on.

At Greco Truly Greek in Boston, MA, we have plenty of vegetarian and meat options for you to try. Our authentic and fresh Greek cuisine can’t be beaten – not to mention you can grab and go!

The Importance of Greek Hospitality

Different parts of the world have their definition of hospitality; the Greek culture, in particular, takes hospitality very seriously. They treat tourists and visitors like special guests and are always ready to welcome them with open hands. Greece being part of Europe, has great diversity, so you’re sure to avoid feeling like a stranger in their environment. There are a lot of tourist attractions available for visitors, and honestly, the fun knows no bounds.

Why Greeks Take Hospitality Seriously

In Greece, an ancient belief is that a visitor can be one of their gods in disguise. Everyone who identifies as Greek or represents their beliefs welcomes guests, regardless of their title and position in society, with food, drinks, and a place to lay their heads before engaging in any conversation. In the past, the ancient Greek god Zeus punished people who were found not to be hospitable.

It cannot be overstated that the Greek people are very kind, and in ancient times it was common for a villager to go to the home of a foreigner or visitor with a bag of fresh tomatoes. This form of hospitality is currently displayed in states, such as helping a stranger in need or buying food for a homeless person. The ancient Greeks believed that their acts of kindness and hospitality would lead to favor in the sight of Zeus and other gods. It was also discovered that the most prosperous people in the Greek culture at that time were also very hospitable and generous with their wealth; this further increased the passion for hospitality in all citizens.

The Laws of Xenia

The word Xenia embodies the idea of being hospitable. It forms part of the compound word “Philo-Xenia” which translates to “Friend of the stranger”. Stories have been told of the god Zeus, who was known to dress up in layman’s clothing and appear at the doors of villagers to know who would accept him and those who would turn him away. Woe to those who turn him away as unknown to them. 

They have just incurred Zeus’s wrath; we can imagine what that would look like. Asides from Zeus, other gods, such as the goddess of wisdom, Athena Xenia, and the set of twins, Dioscuri Castor and Pollux, were known to watch over all strangers. In ancient Greece, offering hospitality to a stranger is seen as a sign of virtue and honor. These acts have, as such, been enshrined in their DNA and passed down to their offspring; little wonder why the residents are so kind.

Hire GRECO Catering For Your Next Boston, MA Event

Here in Boston, MA, you can indulge in the American version of Greek food or choose Greco truly Greek. You’ll experience authentic street fare at our modern eatery, made with Greek love. Start with a classic gyro with your choice of fillings and sauces. Add a delicious side of Greek salad or zucchini crisps. And finish off your meal with legendary loukoumades.

Our Catering Options

At Greco in Boston, MA, we offer different types of catering packages depending on your event, dietary needs, number of guests, and other essential details. Our most popular options include boxed lunches that come individually wrapped with protein, sauce, and a side—served with pita.

Gyro

At Greco, we have plenty of Gyro catering options that will match your taste and style for your event. We have pork, lamb, or chicken gyro options filled with tomato, onion, and tzatziki.

Did you know that the Gyro originated in Greece and is a trademark of Greek fast food? A Gyro is packed with thinly sliced meat, tomatoes, raw red onions, lettuce, tzatziki, and fried potatoes. Try it a Greco today!

Bifteki

Bifteki is a delicious take on Greek meatballs. A combination of oregano, mint, and onion comes together to create a traditional Greek flavor. This dish can also be considered a Greek burger. Here at Greco in Boston, MA, we offer Bifteki with ground beef, Greek herbs, onions, tomatoes, and spicy feta. Try it today – it can’t be beaten.

Loukaniko

Loukaniko is a Greek sausage made from pork or lamb, flavored with various other dried herbs and seeds, and sometimes smoked over wood for a smoky aroma. Loukaniko is typically served as a mezze, often sliced and fried. It can also be cooked into any number of dishes. The name comes from ancient Roman cuisine Lucania, also used in Greece. At Greco, we offer Loukaniko with pork and leek sausage, onion, tomato, and a delicious dipping mustard sauce.

At Greco in Boston, we have plenty of authentic Greek food options for you to cater your next event throughout Boston, MA. Visit our website to view our menu and learn more about our Greco story. View our locations to visit us today.

History of Gyros and Where To Find Them in Boston, MA

When you first think of Greek food, Gyros are typically one of the foods that will come to mind. Once you eat your first gyro, one will not be enough. Have you ever wondered what the history of gyros actually is, and where they originate from? Many other cultures have a similar type of sandwich, so what makes a Gyro different? 

What is a Gyro?

The name “Gyro” itself comes from a Greek word meaning “round,” due to the round shape of the rotisserie the meat comes from. The slabs of meat, anything from beef, pork, lamb, or chicken, are seasoned and wrapped around a spit. The meat slowly cooks while rotating, and it is then sliced and placed into the sandwich. Traditional gyros include meat, tzatziki, chopped onion, chopped tomato, and sometimes even fries. These ingredients are all encased in a round of pita bread.

There are plenty of different variations out there, the uniqueness of Greek Gyros includes fries – however, these can be optional. In Athens, there is a version of this sandwich known as “Kalamaki.” All the elements of the sandwich are the same except the sliced meat is replaced with souvlaki.

Where can you get Gyros in Boston, MA? 

In Boston, MA, we are far away from the authentic Greek street foods that offer fresh gyros wherever you turn. However, we have a few hidden gems that may offer you a great escape right here in Boston. Here are some of our favorites in the city: 

Committee: This contemporary Greek restaurant is located directly at the Seaport. Cool crowds don’t just come for the food, with delicious gyros and spanakopita “grilled cheese” with feta and kasseri. They also come for the craft Greek cocktails, a kicky bunch with unique names that will always have you guessing. Visit us today to take a dive into Greece. 

Greco Truly Greek: There’s the American version of Greek food, then there’s the true blue GRECO experience. Indulge in our classic gyros with your choice of fillings and sauces. Add a delicious side of Greek salad or zucchini crisps. And finish off your meal with legendary loukoumades. At our modern eatery, you’ll experience authentic street fare, made with Greek love. Take a step off of the Boston, MA streets into a Greek experience. 

Visit Greco Truly Greek Today

Greco Truly Greek has a variety of different locations throughout the city, offering authentic Greek street fare made with fresh ingredients. We may not be around the corner from the beautiful country of Greece, but you can definitely get a good taste of the experience right here at Greco in Boston, MA. Visit us today!

Where to Celebrate Greek Holidays in Boston, MA? 

Greek Independence Day, a national holiday, was celebrated among Greek communities on March 25. It commemorates the start of the War of Greek Independence in 1821. Greece had been part of the Ottoman Empire since 1453, and the revolt was precipitated on March 25, 1821, when Bishop Germanos of Patras raised the flag of revolution over the Monastery of Agia Lavra in the Peloponnese. 

In Greece, the holiday is celebrated with patriotic speeches, parades, and military demonstrations. There are parades, most typically organized by schools, where children march with the Greek flag dressed in traditional customs. Although this doesn’t happen in the US for Greek Independence Day, there are some fun ways for you to celebrate in Boston, MA this year.

Celebrate with Lunch at Greco in Boston, MA

Although Greek Independence day has passed, and the celebrations in the United States aren’t as thrilling as they may be in Greece, you can still get in the Greek spirit here in Boston, MA! At Greco in Boston, we have plenty of authentic Greek fast food for you to try throughout Boston, MA. Visit our website to view our menu and learn more about our Greco story. View our locations to visit us today.

Our delicious lunch options include: 

• Gyro
• Loukoumades
• Homemade Greek Sauces
• Loukaniko 

Date Night Out at Krasi in Boston, MA

Krasi is Boston’s addition to the authentic experience of meze and wine, a Greek tradition embedded in the culture. It promises a fresh perspective on Mediterranean food and craft cocktails, alongside hospitality worthy of the iconic location. Krasi in Boston, MA serves wines that have never been poured in this city before. 

If you have family or friends coming into town, Krasi is the best place to come for delicious Greek wine and meze that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. With a one-of-a-kind interior to give you the authentic Greece experience, this is the best place for a date night or drinks with friends! 

Host an Event at Committee in Boston, MA 

Lastly, if you are looking for a fun way to celebrate Greek Independence, or just gather with friends, consider coming to Committee in Boston, MA. Bring the energy, spark, and fun of a cocktail party to an event of any size at Committee. In our high-energy eatery by Boston’s waterfront, guests mix and mingle over Greek Meze, a dining concept originating in the Mediterranean that encourages them to sample, share, and socialize. 

The space at Committee heightens the laid-back electric vibe, with modern industrial design. We have plenty of different event spaces, with a gleaming bar as center stage, an outdoor patio, and a vibrant scene where people constantly flow in and out. Guests can gather at tables or chat around the bar. The culinary twists, the hand-crafted cocktails, the dynamic wait staff, the harborside location—it all combines to create a refreshing get-together you will never forget!