Home chefs that are looking to put their best cookware to the test should consider whipping up Mediterranean recipes, which are full of beneficial nutrients.

Dr Carina Norris RNutr, a nutritional consultant, said that there are many health benefits to be reaped by bringing out the best cookware and creating dishes using traditional Mediterranean ingredients, including fruit, nuts, vegetables and a moderate amount of meat.

"Olive oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fats, which have a beneficial effect on our blood cholesterol, and so reduce our risk of heart disease and stroke. And oily fish, like mackerel and sardines ... help with our cholesterol levels," Dr Norris explained.

Recent research supported Dr Norris's advice, after analysts at Harokopio University of Athens found that eating a Mediterranean diet reduces the risk of metabolic syndrome.

In addition, Dr. Panagiotakos and Christina-Maria Kastorini MSc PhD cand. commented that the eating habits found in the Mediterranean region have been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.