I was given an opportunity via the publisher to read the Mediterranean Diet Slow Cooker Cookbook: 100 Healthy Recipes. I was under no obligation to review this cookbook and my opinion is freely given.
The author uses the opportunity in the introduction to describe the Mediterranean diet, which those unfamiliar to this type of eating will appreciate. With a focus on eating healthy foods like fish and other seafood, legumes, fruits, nuts, vegetables, whole grains, and olive oil, this way of eating is surprisingly flavorful with the addition of herbs and spices. Chicken, red meat, eggs, cheese, and yogurt are also present, which the main restrictions being no added sugars or refined flours.
There are tip boxes scattered throughout the cookbook, giving substitution ideas, tips for using dried beans, and other helpful hints. The biggest drawback to this cookbook is the lack of photographs, as it is not nearly inspiring to try a new type of eating without the visual stimulation.
The recipes in the Mediterranean Diet Slow Cooker Cookbook are divided into logical sections and here are some of my favorite finished dishes per each.
Soups and Stews: White Bean Soup; Lemon Chicken Soup with Orzo; Greek Salad Soup
Beans and Grains: Lentil Bowl; Barley and Vegetable Casserole; Herbed Polenta
Rice and Pasta: Creamy Chicken Pasta; Minestrone Casserole with Italian Sausage
Vegetables: Zucchini Parmesan Casserole; Potato Vegetable Hash; Egg Casserole
Seafood: Paella; Fish Chili; Shrimp Risotto
Poultry: Pesto Chicken and Potatoes; Deconstructed Greek Chicken Kabobs
Lamb, Beef, and Pork: Lamb Chili with Lentils; Bacon-wrapped Stuffed Pork; Rib Stew
Desserts: Mediterranean Rice Pudding; Italian Apple Cake
The biggest takeaway that I have from the Mediterranean Diet Slow Cooker Cookbook is that you do not have to sacrifice flavor and variety to eat healthy. The lack of photographs are the only detraction to this cookbook, but I would highly recommend it regardless of that fact.