By Tony Manhart, Gardening Dream

As we all know: the Italian-based diet, especially the vegetables that are popular in Italian cuisine, are easy on the palate and easy to grow. 

Yes, it’s safe to say Mediterranean vegetables are among the healthiest around. Here are a few facts you may not have known:

Spinach

You can grow the spinach indoors, that is the easiest way. This superfood is packed with fiber, iron, calcium, vitamin K, folate, and other nutrients. It’s loaded with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and even antihistamines. 

But most importantly, spinach is delicious. It’s delicious raw, and it’s delicious steamed.

Arugula

Arugula, a favorite salad green in many parts of the world, is the leafy part of the arugula family. This herb has been cultivated in Italy since the 1300s and was used to make salads in the late-19th century. 

Zucchini

Zucchini, which is also known as courgette, is a large summer squash from the Cucurbitaceae family. This popular veggie is easy to grow and has many nutritional benefits. It’s a good source of Vitamin C, dietary fiber, antioxidants, and potassium. 

Additionally, the vegetable contains very low levels of sodium and calories. Zucchini is great for those who enjoy a low-carb diet.

Bonus: Tomatoes

Tomatoes are embedded in the Italian cuisine, without them, more than half of the Italian dishes wouldn’t make sense. And to think, it’s almost time to crush all our summer tomatoes and jar that coveted red sauce for the fall and winter months to come. 🤌🏼

Contact me here, share your favorite tips, health benefits and little-known facts about the Italian garden, and let’s keep the conversation going. Salute!

 

-Tony Manhart is the founder and editor in chief at GardeningDream. Tony’s enthusiasm and rich experience in all things related to growing plants have led him to share his knowledge with gardening aficionados all over the world. When he is not working around his own garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on various subjects related to plant cultivation and soil maintenance.