Ok Listies, I’m going to be honest, since I’ve been home from my 100 days On The Go I’ve been a little more strapped for cash (I blame delicious cocktail menus in NY). So, I’ve rediscovered my kitchen and I’ve been playing with a few different recipes. It seems I need more help than first thought, so I’ve needed to get some extra help in the inspo department.
Here are some that quick, supposedly easy to prepare and worldly recipes that might also help me save some pennies. And at the same time, here’s a bit of education on spices of the world. ?
Pan-Seared Salmon & Chermoula Spiced Couscous with Dijon Yoghurt and Salad
Starting off with a nutrient dense meal, this packs a punch in terms of offering herby, zesty and sweet flavours. It has a focus on carbs and protein and only takes about 25 mins to prepare.
Chermoula is a traditional Moroccan spice rub typically used to flavour fish. It consists of a smooth puree of toasted seeds, garlic, oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, paprika, salt and red pepper flakes. In addition, coriander, parsley and mint are included to add flavour and slight texture. But, if you’re like me I would make this sans coriander.
Zaatar Chicken & Honeyed Carrot Fries with Hummus Dressing and Mixed salad
You had me at fries and hummus. This one is meant to be healthy, quick to prepare and have heaps of protein which is great to weights day. The honeyed carrot fries add colour to the dish and sweetness (hello sweet tooth).
Middle Eastern spice, Zaatar, is often used as a spread over pita bread, sprinkled over plain yoghurt as a dip, or used to flavour grilled meats (I’m thinking back to MFWF last year mmmm). It is a blend of oregano, minced thyme, sumac, ground cumin, sesame seeds, salt and ground black pepper which works to create a citrusy, woody and earthy tone.
Honey-Soy Glazed Chicken & Sesame Fries with Japanese Cucumber Salad
This Japanese-inspired dish is sure to hit the spot, with its succulent caramelised chicken thighs and sesame fries served with a refreshing salad. This meal has a high level of protein and carbohydrates, it’s easy to make and only takes about half an hour to make.
Vietnamese Pork Tacos with Cucumber, Carrot, Coriander and Lime Aioli
This favourite is a modern spin on traditional Vietnamese Banh Mi, or pork rolls. This Vietnamese and Mexican fusion will have you salivating for its sweet, savoury, spicy and sour flavours and the bonus is that it only takes half an hour to prepare.
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich consisting of a soft baguette, smeared with mayo and pate, marinated sliced pork, cucumber, carrot, pickled daikon and coriander. Much of the Vietnamese culinary culture we enjoy today was born out of French colonialism in Vietnam. This has come to influence the flavours, ingredients and combinations used in traditional Vietnamese food. As a result, the Banh Mi we see today has adopted baguettes made of wheat and rice flour, and pates.
Rump Steak with Green Beans and Roasted Broccoli
This classic steak with vegetables is a low-calorie meal and is nutrient and protein dense. Plus who doesn’t love steak and veggies!
Golden Haloumi & Dukkah Pumpkin with Rocket Salad
I flipping love Haloumi!! And apparently, if you add a coat of honey it takes it to the next level. Paired with roasted Dukkah pumpkin and rocket salad that only takes half an hour to prepare I just have to decide if it’s for breakfast or lunch!
Dukkah is an Egyptian spice mix that is often used as a dip for freshly baked bread. It is made up of blended roasted nuts, toasted sesame seeds, coriander seeds, cumin, ground pepper, salt, dried oregano, mint, thyme, sumac and chilli flakes. Dukkah is aromatic and adds flavour to simple meals. There are many health benefits to eating Dukkah, as it is a rich source of calcium, magnesium, omega-3 essential fats and antioxidants.
Thai Coconut Curry Noodles with Stir-Fried Vegetables and Roasted Peanuts
Like all Thai food, this coconut curry noodle rendition with broccoli and carrot is packed with packed with fragrant and complex flavours. Thai food is the one thing I really missed while I was travelling, so this one is a no-brainer!
Vegetarian Club Sandwich with Hummus and Tomato
Want a vegetarian twist on a classic sandwich? Try the vegetarian club! This recipe combines delicious hummus with tomato, watercress and carrot to make a mouth-watering concoction that you can throw together in just under 10 minutes.
Good luck kitchen!
Article Main Photo by Katie Smith on Unsplash
