The holiday season usually brings an array of festive treats and indulgent feasts, leaving us feeling undeniably satisfied, but perhaps a tad overindulged.
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to reset and refocus on nourishing our bodies with wholesome and nutritious dishes.
Enjoy a post-holiday recovery with these delicious and comforting recipes, that will leave you feeling revived.
Detoxifying green smoothie
I know the words ‘green smoothie’ can sometimes seem uninviting but trust me when I say this one is delicious and revitalising!
Blend together kale or spinach, cucumber, a pink lady apple, lemon juice, and a handful of mint. Add coconut water for hydration and a boost of electrolytes – and you’re done!
Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, this green smoothie helps flush out toxins, promotes digestion and provides a refreshing start to your post-holiday mornings.
You could also add some ginger for kick and sweeten with a touch of honey.
Soothing spinach and lentil soup
After weeks of festive feasting, a nutritious soup is the perfect winter warmer that will leave you feeling nourished and refreshed.
Try a spinach and lentil soup; a green-packed bowl of goodness that provides essential vitamins and fibre.
Sauté onions, garlic and celery, then add lentils, vegetable broth and a generous amount of fresh spinach.
Simmer until the lentils are tender, season with black pepper and finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness. Garnish with fresh herbs to finish.
This soup is rich in iron and antioxidants, supporting detoxification and revitalisation. I like to infuse some heat to mine by adding a habanero or scotch bonnet pepper and removing it before serving.
Yemi’s turmeric latte.
Turmeric golden milk latte
Combat holiday fatigue and support your immune system with a warm and golden turmeric latte.
Combine coconut milk, turmeric, ginger, a pinch of black pepper and a touch of honey for sweetness.
The turmeric infuses the drink with anti-inflammatory properties and the cosy flavour makes it an ideal addition to your diet or nightcap.
Quinoa and roasted vegetable buddha bowl
For a delicious and nutrient-dense main meal, treat yourself to a quinoa and roasted vegetable buddha bowl.
Roast a colourful medley of vegetables – sweet potatoes, beetroots, carrots, onions and bell peppers – and toss them with cooked quinoa.
Drizzle with a zesty tahini dressing for a burst of flavour and an extra dose of healthy fats.
You could also swap the tahini dressing with a pomegranate vinegar dressing and some fresh pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of sweetness.
This colourful nourishing bowl is packed with fibre, protein, and essential nutrients.
Chia Seed Pudding with Mixed Berries
If you’re still craving something sweet, a chia seed pudding featuring mixed berries will hit the spot.
Combine chia seeds with almond milk, a touch of vanilla extract and maple syrup.
Set in the fridge, then layer it with berry compote and a vibrant mix of berries like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries.
Top with some crunchy granola for texture.
Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, making this dessert both yummy and healthy.
Adding these recipes into your weekly routine will support your body’s recovery and introduces a variety of flavours and textures to keep your meals exciting.
Remember to stay hydrated, prioritise whole foods and savour the joy of nourishing your body from the inside out.
As you embrace these delicious and wholesome recipes, you will rediscover the pleasures of balanced and nutritious eating.
Here’s to a vibrant and rejuvenated start to the new year!
Yemi Adelekan is a food writer and blogger who was a semi-finalist in last year’s BBC TV’s Masterchef competition.
Every Saturday Yemi writes on the Stray Ferret about her love of the district’s food and shares cooking tips – please get in touch with her if you want her to review a restaurant, visit your farm, taste the produce you sell or even share a recipe.
Read more:
- Yemi’s Food Stories: Cheers to a yummy new year
- Yemi’s Food Stories: Bringing a taste of Syria to the Harrogate district
- Yemi’s Food Stories: Let’s talk oil
