TrendsFamiliar, yet exotic Mediterranean cuisine

Mediterranean cuisine is somewhat unique in that it is drawn from a geographical region of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea rather than from a single country. It combines the well-known flavors of Italian, Greek, Spanish and French foods with the more exotic ones from the Middle East and North Africa. The Mediterranean Sea is the conduit that connects all these far-flung cuisines into one that is rich with a variety of naturally wholesome ingredients.

Grouping these varied cuisines under the regional ‘Mediterranean’ banner gives consumers the opportunity to sample new unfamiliar flavors with other comfortable, more familiar fare. According to a recent Technomics survey, six out of 10 consumers say they would likely order a menu item featuring flavors and ingredients typically associated with Mediterranean cuisine.

Low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat and dietary fiber, Mediterranean cuisine happens to be innately healthy. Rich in plant-based dishes and seafood along with liberal amounts of olive oil, Mediterranean cuisine is nutritionally robust and has a reputation for being heart healthy. Because of its healthy reputation, Mediterranean cuisine has been extensively studied in order to understand its nutritional benefits. This eventually led to the coining of the term ‘Mediterranean Diet’ and its subsequent recommendation by health professionals.

The healthy halo of the Mediterranean Diet extends into what consumers know as Mediterranean cuisine. Beyond their nutritional appeal, Mediterranean foods are attractive in their simplicity. Fresh, uncomplicated flavors made from ingredients like olive oil, lemon, garlic and rosemary complement clean labels, which is another ongoing consumer concern. Earthy Mediterranean flavors have become so familiar in American cuisine that many are considered mainstream, especially those that are common in southern Italian and French foods. Now other less familiar Mediterranean foods from the Middle East and North Africa are being added to the mix and a gentle assimilation of more exotic flavors is occurring.

Hummus is a perfect example of how a basic Mediterranean dish assimilated onto American tables. Traditionally, hummus is a pureed mixture of chickpeas, garlic, tahini and olive oil. In the U.S., hummus has morphed from a mild flavored dip to a many-flavored condiment. (Interestingly, only the U.S. market offers flavored hummus.)

• Flavors: jalapeño; chipotle; spinach; roasted red pepper; sun-dried tomato; lemon; cilantro; garlic; green chilies (spicy)
• Add-ins: feta, olives, smoked paprika

Once considered a specialty item that could only be found in ethnic grocery stores, hummus now dominates the refrigerated spread category and can be found in just about any grocery store and deli in multiple flavor combinations. Hummus sales have doubled in the past 10 years as consumers adopted a taste for the healthy dip that is high in fiber, amino acids and protein, low in saturated fat, cholesterol free and a good source of iron.

If hummus is the quintessential example of Mediterranean food adopted by Americans, then Greek yogurt is next in line. Over the past two years, Greek yogurt has graduated from obscure ethnic food to cool food with sales topping $1 billion, going from basically a couple of brands and a few SKUs to multiple brands and tens of SKUs.

A bright spot in the refrigerated dairy case, Greek yogurt is thicker and higher in protein than conventional American yogurts. The thicker texture is the result of a straining process that removes whey, leaving even nonfat varieties rich, creamy and satiating. While traditional Greek or Mediterranean yogurts are eaten plain as part of both savory and sweet dishes, the American adaptations are generally lower in fat and made with sweet, fruit flavors.

Our culinary experts can help customize your own Mediterranean-style dip featuring the wholesome ingredients and flavors of the region. Consider using Greek yogurt and/or pureed white beans, which make great dip or spread ingredients.

We’ll ensure that you get the texture and flavor profile you need in the format that works best for your application and process. Single-serve or bulk packaging options are available.

Call us at 1-800-893-7411 and our culinary experts will help you customize a dip or spread to your specifications. We look forward to collaborating with you!