A Healthy Start
With wholesome, feel-good recipes, we’re balancing the post-Christmas madness one dish at a time..🥗✨
The chaos of January has well and truly landed in our house. The scramble to find school backpacks which have mysteriously disappeared into last year, the remnants of Christmas nearly in the rear view mirror, and my resolutions to bring calm and order to family life have already been crushed by the sheer weight of reality. In the spirit of fresh starts, this week’s recipes focus on wholesome, feel-good food that might just balance out the inevitable Christmas indulgence.
Soy Brined Cod with Cauliflower & Garlic Greens
First up is Soy Brined Cod with Cauliflower & Garlic Greens. The soy adds a lovely savoury depth to the fish while keeping it tender and paired with caramelised cauliflower and garlicky greens, it’s a dish that feels fancy but is sneakily low effort. Even the pickiest eaters in the house might surprise you with their approval, though the greens may need a bit of creative marketing ("superhero leaves" has worked wonders before).
Thai Style Roast Aubergines with Mint and Jasmine Rice
For those trying to eat less meat this year, let me introduce the recipe that might just convert the sceptics: Thai Style Roast Aubergines with Mint and Jasmine Rice. The aubergines become meltingly tender, soaking up a rich sticky sauce that’s the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy. A scattering of fresh mint on top adds freshness and paired with fragrant jasmine rice, it’s the sort of meal that feels indulgent while being completely plant-based.
Super Green Spinach, Pea & Mint Soup
Finally, if the winter gloom has you craving a warm bowl of something green, this Super Green Spinach, Pea & Mint Soup is just the ticket. Add peas for sweetness, mint for freshness, and, because we’re all human, a cheeky drizzle of cream or a dollop of yogurt on top to make it feel like a treat.
So, here’s to a healthy-ish start to 2025. If you’re anything like me, the rest of the month will bring its fair share of pasta bakes & pizza but hey, balance is what it’s all about, right?
Photography Credit: Donal Skehan
Food Styling Credit: Charlotte O’Connell