There are two main reasons for the widespread popularity of Mediterranean cuisine – it is exceptionally delicious and also very healthy. It is the second part that sometimes puts people off. It's not that they do not want a healthy diet, it is because they think that it means that they cannot have their favorite foods as part of the diet. In many cases, that means they think that beef is a no-no in Mediterranean food. This misleading idea is based on the fact that the diet focuses primarily on:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains and legumes
• Herbs and spices
• All types of seafood
• The use of olive oil, both for flavor and health benefits

The use of the following is limited:

• Added sugars
• Highly processed foods
• Refined grains
• Trans fats
• Proteins like red meat

The benefits of a diet based on these guidelines are obvious, but leaving out beef and similar proteins puts a lot of people off. The cuisine is not limited only to fresh Mediterranean salads and wraps. It's time to get rid of this misconception.

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Also Read: Cooking Mediterranean Food Hacks You Need to Know

Beef is rich in important nutrients like zinc and iron. Data shows that lean unprocessed red meat like beef or pork can be included as part of a regular diet without increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. A study by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows that a Mediterranean diet that includes lean red meat may help reduce the risk factors for developing cardiac diseases. In many cases, the addition of red meat helped lower the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Of course, overdoing anything is not good which is why the study says that 5.5 ounces of red meat per day as part of a Mediterranean diet is not only safe, but it could also be beneficial to health.

The Mediterranean diet is an everyday way of eating that has withstood the test of time and is so varied that it never gets boring in addition to being delicious and healthy as well.

Now that the idea that beef does not belong in a Mediterranean diet has been removed, those who like their red meat can become part of the healthy eating revolution. Beef is prominent in the menus of Mediterranean restaurants.

If you want to make this cuisine a regular part of your diet and want to start preparing it at home, all you need to do is go to a specialized Mediterranean grocery store like Aladdin Gourmet in the San Francisco Bay Area. This is where everything needed to make outstanding Mediterranean food at home will be available and where everything is of exceptional quality. There is also a great deli, that is known to be the best Mediterranean takeout in San Mateo, where you can either pick up (or have delivered) a full meal or a dish or two to supplement what you have made at home.

1. Can a Mediterranean meal include beef?

Yes, lean beef can be included as a nutritious part of a Mediterranean meal.

2. Is beef healthy in a Mediterranean diet?

Yes, lean, unprocessed beef is rich in nutrients like zinc and iron and can be safely enjoyed in moderation.

3. What are fresh Mediterranean salads and wraps?

They are light, healthy dishes made with fresh ingredients and often served alongside other Mediterranean favorites.

4. Where can I get the best Mediterranean takeout in San Mateo?

Check out Aladdin Gourmet, known for offering the best Mediterranean takeout in San Mateo with a variety of dishes.

5. How does beef benefit a Mediterranean diet?

Beef adds essential nutrients and variety, complementing the healthy fruits, vegetables, and grains typical of Mediterranean cuisine. 

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