The
Mediterranean has been a large contributor of our worlds cuisine, since
most of the worlds empires have been located there. For the most part
three major ingredients have shaped what the cuisine is today.
Olives
Dating back to nearly 6000 years ago, olives have been a staple of mediterranean cuisine. They are press into an oil used for cooking or dipping. As well as just eating the fruit its self.
Wheat
The climate of the mediterranean was perfect for growing wheat, and so it has been used to create breads, pastas, and couscous. Breads are typical in nearly all aspects of dining in the Mediterranean.
Grapes
The cultivation of grapes for whine has been a staple of the Mediterranean. Its influences are found in religious texts and the empires that reigned in the region. Not only were these fruits used as wine the fruit were also eaten by themselves.
This information can be found at: https://www.cafesano.com/history-mediterranean-cuisine/