Greens (Horta), probably one of the most powerful components of the Greek and Mediterranean Diet. Eat them gently boiled with Organic Olive oil & lemon. Full of potent antioxidants. Good choices include dandelion, fennel and more.
The vast majority of ancient Greeks were by no means vegetarians or vegans as people define these terms today.
However, they did appreciate the wide variety of plants and vegetables provided by nature, and they knew just how to take advantage of every single plant that grew in their gardens.
Of course, like every other major western civilization, Greeks not only ate meat, but they enjoyed it, as we know from various written sources of that time. Several feasts which took place at different times of the year prominently featured meat, including lamb or pork.
However, one of the main characteristics of ancient Greek life was the concept of ”metron,” what we would describe today as moderation. As far back as the ninth century BC, the Greek historical Hesiod cautioned, “Observe due measure, moderation is best in all things” in his treatise called Works and Days.
In accordance with this precept, the diets of ancient Greeks did indeed include meat but not as much as we might think, and almost certainly not as much as we consume today.
The Greeks knew that the more meat one eats, the more prone he will be to obesity—and therefore, illness—in the long run. For this reason, their diets tended to be predominantly plant-based.
Greens – Horta,
Vegetables, fruits, and legumes formed the basis of every ancient Greek dish, setting the foundations of what we know today as healthy Mediterranean cuisine.
The many health benefits of horta
It is obvious to us today that a diet rich in greens cannot but benefit anyone who is trying to reduce or even eliminate the amount of meat he or she consumes.
Dishes such as spanakopita (spinach pie), bean stew with greens, spinach with eggs, spanakorizo (spinach risotto), and numerous other options offer countless nutritional benefits.
Consider the dandelion green salad. Rich in calcium, if this Greek staple is consumed on a regular basis, it can support bone strengthen, reducing the chance of arthritis.
Rich in vitamin C, these humble greens also support our immune system, reduce the levels of toxins in our bodies, and help us obtain a balance in hydration and electrolyte levels.
Due to their antioxidant elements, a diet based on ancient Greek vegetarian recipes is beneficial for skin health, too.