Quinoa With Roasted Pumpkin, Zucchini and Basil Pesto

Quinoa With Roasted Pumpkin, Zucchini and Basil Pesto

Quinoa with Roasted Pumpkin, Zucchini, and Basil Pesto

Why This Dish Is a Nutritional Powerhouse

Looking for a healthy, protein-packed meal that fuels your body? This quinoa with roasted pumpkin, zucchini, and basil pesto is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Perfect for post-workout recovery or a satisfying meal, it delivers the right balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Quinoa – A gluten-free grain with a low glycemic index. It provides complete protein with all essential amino acids, making it ideal for muscle repair.
  • Pumpkin – Rich in carotenoid antioxidants, it supports the immune system and fights inflammation. Plus, its high potassium content helps restore electrolytes, making it great for workout recovery.
  • Zucchini & Fresh Herbs – Basil and parsley provide anti-inflammatory benefits, aid digestion, and support detoxification.
  • Garlic & Black Pepper – Natural digestive stimulants with powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Healthy Oils – Walnut or flaxseed oil adds omega-3 fatty acids, supporting heart health and reducing inflammation.

Quinoa with Roasted Pumpkin, Zucchini & Basil Pesto Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 600g pumpkin, cut into chunks
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 6 baby zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa (boil for 15 minutes, rinse well)
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Small bunch of parsley, chopped
  • 1–2 tablespoons pesto (adjust to taste)

Method

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C.
  2. Toss pumpkin and red onion with olive oil, cinnamon, and black pepper.
  3. Roast for 30–40 minutes or until tender.
  4. Sauté zucchini for 2–3 minutes in a pan. Lightly season and set aside.
  5. Combine roasted vegetables, quinoa, zucchini, parsley, and pesto. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Serve as is or garnish with garden herbs and crumbled feta.

Optional Additions

  • Add feta, ricotta, or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Toss in baby spinach or sautéed kale for added nutrients.
  • Sprinkle chopped pistachios before serving for a crunchy texture.

Enjoy this nourishing quinoa dish, packed with flavors and health benefits!

Lamb Harira

Lamb Harira

Lamb Harira – A Nourishing Middle Eastern Delight

A Comforting Dish for Cooler Evenings

As the nights get cooler, there’s nothing better than a warm, hearty meal to keep you satisfied. This Lamb Harira recipe is packed with Middle Eastern flavors, nourishing ingredients, and rich spices. It’s perfect for family dinners or even a special gathering. The best part? You can double the batch and impress your guests with a delicious, comforting dish.

The slow-cooked lamb shanks create a deep, flavorful broth, while a mix of vegetables, spices, and quinoa adds texture and nutrition. Let the aromatic blend of cinnamon, turmeric, cumin, and saffron fill your kitchen with irresistible warmth.

Lamb Harira Recipe (Serves 6)

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp ghee or olive oil
  • 4 lamb shanks
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • Big pinch saffron
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes
  • 2 cups chopped zucchini
  • 2 cups chopped pumpkin
  • 4 cups chopped silverbeet or kale
  • 2 cups chopped sweet potato
  • 2 liters water or stock
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup chopped coriander
  • ½ cup chopped parsley and mint (optional)

Method

  1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add lamb shanks and brown on all sides, then set aside.
  2. Sauté onion and celery until soft and translucent (about 4–5 minutes).
  3. Add garlic and spices to the pan. Stir for 2 minutes to release their aroma. Mix in chopped tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes.
  4. Pour in water or stock and return the lamb to the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 2 hours until the meat is tender.
  5. Remove lamb, allow it to cool, then shred the meat off the bone. Discard bones and return meat to the pot.
  6. Add quinoa, sweet potato, pumpkin, zucchini, and greens. Cook for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  7. Season to taste, stir in fresh coriander, parsley, and mint.
  8. Serve hot with lemon wedges for a fresh, zesty touch.

Enjoy this rich and nourishing Lamb Harira, perfect for cozy nights and satisfying meals!

 

 

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone Soup – A Hearty, Nourishing Meal

A Simple, Flavorful One-Pot Dish

Minestrone soup is a versatile and nourishing meal that can be adapted based on the ingredients available. Each time I make it, I switch up the vegetables, making every batch unique and flavorful.

One of the best things about this soup is that it’s easy to prepare and lasts for several days, making it perfect for meal prep. Instead of using vegetable stock, I rely on the natural flavors of fresh vegetables, which infuse beautifully into the broth.

For an extra burst of flavor, I love stirring in a spoonful of pesto just before serving. This simple addition elevates the taste to a whole new level.

Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients like fennel, carrots, beans, kale, and fresh herbs, this minestrone is as healthy as it is delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!


What Makes This Soup So Good?

This hearty minestrone is filled with nutrient-dense ingredients that support digestion, immunity, and overall well-being.

  • Carrots – Rich in antioxidants that support a healthy immune system.
  • Fennel – Aids digestion and helps reduce bloating.
  • Beans – A great source of protein and fiber for stable blood sugar and gut health.
  • Kale – High in vitamins A, C, and K, plus essential minerals for strong bones.
  • Parsley – Contains anti-inflammatory properties and detoxifying chlorophyll.
  • Garlic & Black Pepper – Boosts digestion and has anti-inflammatory benefits.

Minestrone Soup Recipe

Serves: 4

Ingredients:

  • 2 onions, diced
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
  • 4 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 large carrots, roughly chopped
  • 1 bunch Tuscan black cabbage (cavolo nero/kale), sliced
  • 1 bunch parsley, chopped
  • 600ml pureed tomatoes (fresh or tinned)
  • 1 x 400g can cooked beans (borlotti, cannellini, or black beans)
  • 1 liter water
  • Sea salt & black pepper to taste
  • Pesto for serving
  • Grated Parmesan (optional)

Method:

  1. In a large pot, heat a little olive oil and sauté the onions, smoked paprika, fennel, garlic, celery, and carrots for 5 minutes.
  2. Wash and chop the kale, then add it to the pot.
  3. Pour in the pureed tomatoes, beans, and water until the vegetables are covered.
  4. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes until the soup thickens and the carrots are tender.
  5. Season with sea salt and black pepper, then stir in the chopped parsley.
  6. Serve hot with a spoonful of pesto and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Customization & Serving Tips

  • Add extra protein by including more beans or chopped chicken.
  • Experiment with different beans like black beans, edamame, or broad beans.
  • Include seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, leeks, pumpkin, or broccoli.
  • Spice it up with a dash of chili for extra heat.

Final Thoughts?

This nutritious, comforting soup is perfect for any season. Enjoy every spoonful and feel the warmth from within!

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Salmon with Spice Crust

Salmon with Spice Crust

Crunchy Crusted Salmon with Spices – A Bold & Savory Recipe

Crunchy Crusted Salmon: A Flavorful & Nutritious Seafood Dish

This Crunchy Crusted Salmon is packed with warming spices, fresh herbs, and a hint of citrus, creating a perfectly crispy, golden crust. Not only is it full of flavor, but it also provides omega-3 fatty acids, lean protein, and essential nutrients.

Many people say, “I know I should eat more fish, but I don’t know how to prepare it!” If that sounds familiar, here’s some delicious inspiration for you. Adding just one seafood meal per week is a great way to build healthier eating habits.

Whether you pair it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, this dish makes a satisfying and healthy meal.

Spice-Crunchy Crusted Salmon Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons ground turmeric
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped lemongrass
  • 4 kaffir lime leaves, finely chopped (or 2 teaspoons grated lime zest)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander leaves
  • 4 fresh red chilies, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil

Method

  1. Mix all ingredients (except the salmon) in a bowl.
  2. Lightly oil a pan, then sear salmon on both sides until browned.
  3. Transfer to an oven tray and spread the spice mixture over one side.
  4. Bake at 200°C for 10 minutes, or until fully cooked.
  5. Serve hot with a side of vegetables or salad.

Enjoy a Delicious Salmon Recipe

Love this recipe? Share it with friends and enjoy this crunchy crusted salmon a nourishing meal!

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Chicken, Quinoa & Vegetable Soup

Chicken, Quinoa & Vegetable Soup

Healthy Chicken Quinoa Vegetable Soup – A Perfect Comfort Food

Chicken Quinoa Vegetable Soup A Nourishing & Flavorful Winter Meal

This Chicken Quinoa & Vegetable Soup is one of my absolute favorites, especially on chilly days. It’s a wholesome and hearty dish packed with lean protein, fiber-rich quinoa, and fresh vegetables.

This hearty soup is one of my absolute favorites, especially during the colder months. It’s a warm, nourishing, and protein-rich dish that brings together lean chicken, wholesome quinoa, and fresh vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Chicken Quinoa Vegetable Soup Recipe (Serves 4-6)

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken drumsticks
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 celeriac bulb, diced
  • 1 fennel bulb, sliced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 3 celery stems with leaves, chopped
  • 1 can organic crushed tomatoes
  • 1 liter organic chicken stock
  • Water (as needed)
  • 1 cup organic quinoa, rinsed
  • ½ – 1 lemon, juiced

Method

  1. Prepare ingredients: Chop onion, celeriac, fennel, carrots, and celery.
  2. Combine in a pot: Add chopped veggies, tomatoes, chicken drumsticks, and stock.
  3. Add water until ingredients are covered.
  4. Boil, then simmer for 1 hour with the lid on.
  5. Add quinoa, bring to a boil, then simmer for 15 minutes until quinoa is cooked.
  6. Stir in lemon juice, starting with ½ lemon, then adjust to taste.

Enjoy & Share!

This Vegetable Soup is protein-rich dish that brings together a hearty soup is one of my absolute favorites, especially during the colder months. What’s your go-to soup? I’d love to hear! Drop a comment below.

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Chicken Chilli Con Carne

Chicken Chilli Con Carne

Chicken Chili Con Carne: A Bold & Comforting Recipe

Chicken Chili Con Carne: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

This chicken chili con carne is a delicious take on a traditional favorite, packed with bold flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a cozy night in, this dish is both hearty and nourishing. The combination of tender chicken, smoky paprika, and warming spices makes it a go-to comfort meal.

If you love chili con carne but want a lighter, protein-rich alternative, this chicken version is a must-try! Packed with flavorful spices, hearty kidney beans, and tender chicken, it’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in. Plus, the fresh salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy chili.

Chicken Chili Con Carne Recipe (Serves 4)

Ingredients

For the Chili Chicken

  • 5 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 3 red capsicums, diced
  • 2 onions, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 kg cooked chicken (organic or free-range BBQ chicken), skinned and chopped
  • 3 tablespoons tomato purée
  • 2 teaspoons ground paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 pinch cayenne pepper
  • 300 mL chicken stock
  • 800 g cooked kidney beans (or 2 x 400 g canned, rinsed well)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh coriander, for garnish

For the Fresh Salad

  • 1 baby cos lettuce, washed and roughly torn
  • 2 ripe avocados, diced
  • 1–2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 Lebanese cucumber, sliced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 tomato, cut into thin wedges
  • 1 handful fresh coriander
  • 2 red chilies, sliced (optional)
  • Sea salt, to season

Method

Cooking the Chili Chicken

  1. Heat coconut oil in a pot over medium heat.
  2. Sauté capsicum, onions, and garlic until onions turn translucent.
  3. Stir in cooked chicken, tomato purée, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  4. Pour in chicken stock, then add kidney beans.
  5. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and black pepper.

Preparing the Salad

  1. Drizzle diced avocado with lime juice to prevent browning.
  2. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, avocado, cucumber, carrot, tomato, and coriander.
  3. Toss gently and season with sea salt.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your spicy chicken chili with a generous portion of fresh salad. Garnish with extra coriander and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.

Enjoy this delicious, warming dish with family and friends!