The Healthiest and Tastiest Recipes from Around the World

Food is one of the best ways to explore different cultures and cuisines, as well as to nourish your body and soul. However, not all foods are created equal, and some may be more beneficial for your health than others. 

In this article, we will introduce you to some of the healthiest and tastiest recipes from around the world, and explain why they are good for you. Whether you are looking for a new dish to try, or want to spice up your regular menu, these recipes will surely satisfy your taste buds and your nutritional needs.

Greek Salad

Greek salad, also known as horiatiki, is a simple and refreshing salad that features fresh vegetables, feta cheese, olives, and herbs. It is typically dressed with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, and sometimes vinegar or oregano. Greek salad is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, which is associated with lower risks of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. Some of the health benefits of Greek salad include:

• It is rich in antioxidants, which protect your cells from oxidative stress and inflammation. The tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, onions, and olives in the salad provide various phytochemicals, such as lycopene, beta-carotene, quercetin, and anthocyanins, that have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties .
• It is high in fiber, which supports your digestive health and helps you feel full. Fiber also helps lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and prevents constipation and diverticular disease . The vegetables, olives, and cheese in the salad provide about 4 grams of fiber per serving.
• It is a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing your muscles, bones, skin, and other tissues. Protein also helps regulate your appetite and metabolism, and boosts your immune system . The cheese and olives in the salad provide about 6 grams of protein per serving.
• It is low in calories, but high in flavor and satisfaction. A typical serving of Greek salad has only about 200 calories, but it can fill you up and keep you energized for hours. The combination of crunchy, juicy, salty, and tangy ingredients makes this salad a delicious and satisfying meal or snack.

To make a Greek salad, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pitted Kalamata olives
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried oregano or 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

To prepare the salad, simply toss the tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, olives, and cheese in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and season with salt, pepper, and oregano or parsley, if using. Enjoy as a side dish or a main course, with some crusty bread or pita bread, if desired.

Thai Chicken and Vegetable Curry

Thai chicken and vegetable curry is a spicy and aromatic dish that features coconut milk, curry paste, chicken, and various vegetables. It is usually served with rice or noodles, and garnished with cilantro or basil. Thai chicken and vegetable curry is a great way to enjoy the flavors and health benefits of Thai cuisine, which is known for its use of herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients. Some of the health benefits of Thai chicken and vegetable curry include:

• It is rich in healthy fats, which support your heart, brain, and skin health. The coconut milk in the curry provides medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily digested and used for energy, and may help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels . The chicken in the curry provides lean protein and monounsaturated fats, which are also beneficial for your cardiovascular health .
• It is high in anti-inflammatory compounds, which fight inflammation and pain in your body. The curry paste in the curry contains various spices, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and chili, that have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects . These spices may also help prevent or treat infections, arthritis, diabetes, and cancer .
• It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, which are essential for your overall health and well-being. The vegetables in the curry, such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini, provide various micronutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, and potassium, that support your vision, immune system, blood clotting, DNA synthesis, and fluid balance .

To make a Thai chicken and vegetable curry, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons red or green curry paste
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cups mixed vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or basil, for garnish

To prepare the curry, heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and keep warm. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and add the curry paste. Cook, stirring, for about 2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the coconut milk, broth, fish sauce, and sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until slightly thickened. Add the vegetables and cook for another 10 minutes, until tender. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Sprinkle with cilantro or basil, if using, and serve with rice or noodles, if desired.