About Mediterranean Cuisine

There is no singular Mediterranean cuisine. The cuisine of the region encompasses the diverse offerings from the various Southern European, Middle Eastern, and North African countries that border the Mediterranean Sea, including Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, and more.

It is a buffet made in heaven.

Each area uses its own distinctive seasonings in its cuisine, but most are notable for their use of fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, fresh vegetables, legumes, and hearty grains.

Mediterranean cuisine has been called the healthiest in the world. The so-called "Mediterranean diet" has been popular in the west in recent years because it focuses on lean meats and fish, fresh vegetables, and olive oil. Even when cheese and other dairy products are used in the Mediterranean region, they are typically used in moderation and are not the main focus of a meal.

On this site, you will find no recipes for meat or fish, although you will find recipes using vegetarian meat substitutes. This way, the Mediterranean diet gets even healthier.

Bon appétit!
Buon appetito!
¡Buen apetito!
Afiyet olsun!
Καλή όρεξη!
בתיאבון

Where Do the Recipes Come From?

Unless noted otherwise, the recipes on this site are original. They have been inspired through the years primarily by my Italian upbringing and my interest in the cuisines of the broader Mediterranean region. I've also been influenced by recipes I've found in various cookbooks (and customized to my own tastes), as well as dishes I've enjoyed in restaurants and reproduced in my own signature style.

Primary thanks go to my Grandma Marianna, Mama Julianna, and Aunt Philomena, who taught me to cook in the old country fashion from the time I was in a highchair.

For the most part, this is the stuff I grew up eating. It's my comfort food. And now it's in writing.

I hope you will enjoy my recipes and the joy that good cooking and dining can bring.