(Family Features) The renowned Mediterranean Diet, celebrated for its myriad benefits, has been rated as a top diet in the world for years.
Recognizing the benefits of the foods included in the Mediterranean Diet, it’s important to broaden the understanding beyond its ingredients to embrace the elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle, which also contribute to these benefits. Essentially, it’s not just about what you eat; it’s also about how you enjoy it and with whom you share the experience.
Nutrition, physical activity, sleep and togetherness comprise this balanced way of living, with preparing, eating and enjoying food together being key elements of the Mediterranean lifestyle. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean lifestyle simply by inviting friends or family to gather around the table for a meal – like a family favorite pasta dish.
Visit barilla.com/recipes to discover more dishes that can help you follow the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Cellentani Caprese Pasta Salad
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Servings: 7
1 box Barilla Protein+ Cellentani pasta
4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
2 pints grape tomatoes, mixed color, halved
4 tablespoons lemon juice
8 basil leaves, julienned
2 cups small mozzarella cheese balls, halved
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Bring large pot of water to boil. Cook pasta according to package directions and drain. Drizzle pasta with 1 tablespoon olive oil and place on sheet tray to cool. Set aside. In large bowl, combine tomatoes, lemon juice, basil, remaining olive oil and cheese. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Add pasta and stir.
Source: Barilla
PHOTO: Cellentani Caprese Pasta Salad. (Photo courtesy of Family Features.)
