''I want to sing the grapes, while the days and time flow, a clear song of wine, sweeping away the dirt that jumps from the saddlebag of the world...''. The Friulian poet Giacomo Vit recites in one of his poems a hymn to grapes, an indisputably important fruit among our cultures, whose millenary history has its roots in the mists of time.
The first evidence of grape cultivation dates back to about 6.000-8.000 years ago in the Near East, in a region that today includes Armenia and Georgia. Here, man began to tame the wild vine (Vitis vinifera) using it until it became a symbol of conviviality and health. The Phoenicians and Greeks spread viticulture throughout the Mediterranean basin, bringing grapes to Italy. The Romans then perfected the techniques of cultivation and winemaking. This fruit is part of the Vitaceae family and is a concentrate of nutrients that are very important for our well-being. It is rich in minerals such as potassium, manganese and iron, and vitamins A, C, B6 and K. In terms of macronutrients, grapes are a source of energy: 100g of grapes provide about 80g of water, 15-16g of carbohydrates and a small amount of fiber (1.5g), making them an ideal food as a restorative, to be consumed during and after physical activity. However, its most interesting properties, which have been the subject of many international studies, derive from the presence of polyphenols (the most important and well-known is resveratrol), powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect cells from aging, particularly at the cardiovascular level.
Now let's see how to apply grapes to a savory recipe.
CHICKEN, GRAPE AND WALNUT SALAD
Ingredients for 2 people:
- 400g of chicken breast
- 200g of black grapes (seedless)
- 50g of shelled walnuts
- 1 stalk of celery
- 4 tablespoons of natural Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Juice of half a lemon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lettuce or rocket leaves
PREPARATION:
Blanch the chicken breast in lightly salted water until cooked. Let it cool and then shred it with your hands or a fork.
Meanwhile, in a bowl, mix the Greek yogurt, mustard, lemon juice, salt and pepper until you get a smooth sauce.
Add the chopped chicken, halved grapes, coarsely chopped walnuts and finely chopped celery to the bowl with the dressing.
Mix gently until all the ingredients are well blended.
Arrange the chicken and grape salad on a bed of fresh lettuce or rocket. You can also serve it inside a wholemeal sandwich for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
(Article by Dr. Paolo Gallo)
