Everyone’s talking about it. Cookbooks abound, and restaurants feature it. Everyone has heard of it, but they don't necessarily know much about it. What is it?

The Mediterranean diet is, generally speaking, the way of eating in this region of Europe, by some of the healthiest people in the world. This includes Greece, France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. There is a good deal of overlap with Middle-Eastern food.

Features of the Mediterranean diet include an emphasis on fresh ingredients, with lots of vegetables, beans, fruit, grains, and nuts. The main oil used is olive oil, which is known to be one of the best. Unlike very low-fat diets, this one can contain as much as 35% fat. But not just any fat — the healthy fats of olive oil and nuts.

Fish and chicken are eaten in small portions, spread throughout the week. Red meats are eaten more sparingly, often saved for special occasions. There is no problem getting enough protein, though, as beans are a great source, and are enjoyed daily. Cheese is a popular garnish, although used in much smaller amounts than what we've become accustomed to.

A glass of red wine is featured at most meals, but for those who don't imbibe, a glass of red grape juice or pomegranate juice will do much the same job.

Mediterranean-Style Veggies

1/2 lb broccoli florets
1/2 lb cauliflower florets
1/2 cup diced carrots
1/3 cup diced celery
1 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil
1 tsp dried rosemary leaves (or 1 Tbs fresh)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Steam vegetables over hot water until crisp-tender.
Transfer to a serving dish.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Season with rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Serve.