Did you know that a simple cauliflower dish can contribute to longevity and health in ways you never imagined? As a kid, I remember always trying to get rid of those white braised cauliflowers on the side of my plate. I’d sneak them to my dog under the table—who, truth be told, wasn’t much of a fan either unless they were very hungry.
But there was one big exception: when I spent my summers at my grandma’s house in Ikaria. There, braised cauliflowers were transformed into one of my favorite dishes. Grandma Maria had a way with them. Back then, I believed she wielded some kind of magic wand, making those cauliflowers taste as good as braised chicken wings in tomato sauce.
Several years later, as a college student researching the longevity of my homeland, Ikaria, and other Blue Zones, I realized that traditional Ikarian recipes weren’t just childhood favorites—they were part of what made Ikarians healthy and long-lived. The simplicity of their diet, rich in plant-based foods like cauliflower and olives, plays a crucial role in the vitality and longevity for which Ikarians are known.
Now, as a health consultant in Lifestyle Medicine, my advice to my patients entering my pharmacy, isn’t just about the medications they take. I always say, “Take care of your overall health, not just with pills, but by paying attention to what’s on your plate.” I encourage them to embrace Ikarian recipes as part of a balanced, health-promoting lifestyle.
A Recipe for Longevity
If you’re interested in adopting some of the culinary habits of Ikaria, a great starting point is to explore traditional Ikarian recipes. Today, I’m sharing one that’s simple to make and uses ingredients you can easily find at your local grocery store: Braised Cauliflower with Green Olives.
Your family, especially your kids, will love it just like I did when I was a child in Ikaria. The combination of tender cauliflower, rich olive oil, and the briny kick of green olives is a delicious way to bring the flavors of the Mediterranean into your home.
Watch the video of renowned Ikarian Chef Diane Kochilas preparing Braised Cauliflower with Green Olives here, and try it for yourself!
A Step Towards Ikarian Longevity
Beyond this recipe, if you’re interested in diving deeper into the world of Ikarian cuisine and its connection to health and longevity, I highly recommend checking out Diane Kochilas’ cookbook on Amazon: “The Ikaria Way: 100 Delicious Plant-Based Recipes Inspired by My Homeland, the Greek Island of Longevity.” It’s filled with mouthwatering, plant-based recipes that reflect the wholesome, health-promoting traditions of Ikaria.
By incorporating these recipes into your life, you’ll not only enjoy delicious meals but also take a meaningful step toward better health. Click here to grab your copy on Amazon and begin your journey to longevity through the power of food!
Please note that some of the links in this blog post are amazon affiliate links. This means that if you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps me to continue creating valuable content. Thank you for your support!