Warm Asparagus Salad

We have all been there, staring into the fridge, wondering what to do with last night’s dinner leftovers. You want to enjoy them again and ensure they’re as fresh and tasty as when you first made them. At the same time, the environmental impact of single-use plastics and other disposable containers that we use in storing our leftovers is hard to ignore.

With the hustle and bustle of daily life, especially for busy professionals, it’s easy to overlook the small choices that affect both our health and the planet. When juggling work, family, exercise, and healthy eating, finding time for everything can seem impossible, and that’s when those everyday decisions often slip through the cracks.

But what if making a positive difference did not require so much effort? What if something as simple as choosing the right container for your leftovers could lead to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle? All of these are possible with compostable containers. These containers not only help cut down on plastic waste but also ensure your meals are kept fresh, tasty, and free from harmful chemicals often found in traditional packaging.

Benefits of Using Compostable Containers

We all want to do our best to keep our environments and the planet healthy, but it is not always easy to know where to start. One small but very effective way to start is by replacing the traditional single-use plastic containers with compostable ones. If you think about how much plastic we use daily, Then you can imagine how much of it ends up polluting our oceans and lands for centuries. It is indeed overwhelming.

On the other hand, compostable containers offer a solution that feels good to make. Made from natural, renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane, these containers break down much faster, sometimes within a few months, under the right compostable conditions without leaving behind harmful residues.

Because we care about our health, we try always to watch what we ingest, but that concern should not stop at the food we eat; it should extend to how we store and reheat it, too. Traditional plastic containers, especially when heated, can release harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates into your food. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, and let’s be honest, no one wants to worry about that while enjoying leftovers. Compostable containers, typically free from these harmful substances, offer a safer, healthier option.

Now, we all know how busy life gets, and finding the time to be sustainable can feel like just another thing on a long to-do list. But the good news is these healthy meal prep containers make it easy to stay on track. They are just as sturdy and microwave-safe as the plastic ones you’re used to, but a lot safer. So, whether you are meal prepping for the week, packing a quick lunch, or reheating leftovers after a long day, these containers fit seamlessly into your routine.

How to Properly Store Leftovers in Compostable Containers

Choosing the Right Container Size and Shape

When it comes to storing leftovers, selecting the right container size and shape can make all the difference in maintaining freshness and avoiding waste. If you’re dealing with smaller portions, like half a serving of pasta or a few slices of fruit, opt for smaller containers to minimize excess air, which can cause food to spoil faster.

For bulkier items, like a hearty stew or a large salad, go for a larger container that can hold everything comfortably without squishing. If you’re storing something that might spread out, like a casserole, a shallow, rectangular container is ideal. Remember, the key is to match the container to the food so that it’s stored compactly and efficiently.

Storing Different Types of Food

Different types of food require different storage techniques to keep them fresh and safe. For solids like meats, vegetables, or grains, make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them in a compostable container to avoid condensation, which can lead to sogginess or spoilage. When it comes to liquids like soups, sauces, or stews, choose a container with a secure, leak-proof lid to avoid spills.

If you are layering foods, such as a salad with dressing, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the greens from wilting. For more delicate items, like fruits or leafy greens, using a slightly larger container with some breathing room can help avoid bruising and keep them crisp.

Safety Tips for Storing Food in Compostable Containers

While compostable containers are a fantastic eco-friendly choice, it’s important to follow a few safety guidelines to ensure your food stays safe to eat. First, always let hot food cool down to room temperature before transferring it into a compostable container; this prevents the container from warping and helps maintain food quality.

Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of how long the leftovers have been stored; most leftovers should be eaten within three to four days. When reheating, make sure the container is microwave-safe and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damaging the container or affecting the food’s quality. Finally, always check for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or unusual texture, before eating leftovers.

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Best Practices for Reheating Food in Compostable Containers

One of the great conveniences of compostable to-go containers is that many are designed to be both microwave-safe and, in some cases, oven-safe. However, it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging or label to confirm this, as not all compostable containers have the same heat tolerance.

Before reheating your leftovers, it's important to note that there are specific guidelines for reheating different types of leftovers in these containers, such as solid or liquid food and even oven dishes. Below are step-by-step instructions you can follow depending on the type of leftover you wish to reheat.

Reheating Solids (e.g., rice, pasta, vegetables):

• Transfer the leftovers into a compostable container if they’re not already in one.
• Add a splash of water or broth to prevent the food from drying out.
• Cover the container with a compostable lid or a microwave-safe cover.
• Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Check the temperature and repeat in shorter intervals if necessary until thoroughly heated.

Reheating Liquids (e.g., soups, stews):

• Pour the liquid into a microwave-safe compostable container.
• Cover with a compostable lid, leaving a small vent to allow steam to escape.
• Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stopping to stir every 1-2 minutes.
• Continue heating until the liquid reaches your desired temperature.

Reheating Oven Dishes (e.g., casseroles, baked pasta):

• Preheat your oven to the temperature specified by the container’s guidelines (typically no higher than 350°F/175°C).
• Transfer the leftovers into an oven-safe compostable container if they’re not already in one.
• Cover loosely with foil or a compostable lid if the container is oven-safe.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes or until the dish is heated through, checking occasionally to avoid overcooking.

Furthermore, reheating leftovers can sometimes lead to a loss of texture and flavour, but with a few simple tips, you can keep your food as delicious as it was when first cooked:

• Use Low to Medium Heat: Slowly reheating food on a lower setting helps maintain moisture and prevent overcooking. This is particularly important for delicate items like fish or vegetables.
• Add Moisture: If your leftovers seem a bit dry, add a small amount of water, broth, or sauce before reheating. This will help retain moisture and enhance the flavor.
• Cover Your Food: Covering your food with a compostable lid or a microwave-safe cover traps steam, keeping it moist and preventing it from drying out.
• Stir or Rotate: If reheating in the microwave, stir or rotate the food halfway through to ensure even heating. This prevents some parts from becoming too hot while others remain cold.
• Reheat in Portions: If you have a large amount of food, consider reheating it in smaller portions. This allows for more even heating and helps preserve the texture of your dish.

By following these best practices, you can enjoy your leftovers with the same quality and taste as when they were freshly made, all while staying true to your commitment to sustainability.

You May Also Like: Gluten Sensitivities and Plant-Based Eating: How to Thrive as a Gluten-Free Vegan

Avoiding Common Mistakes with Compostable Containers

Using these eco-friendly food storage containers offers a wide range of benefits alongside convenience, but there are certain common mistakes we often make while using them. Let us take a look at some of these mistakes and how to avoid them:

Overfilling Containers

When we overfill compostable containers, it can lead to spills, leaks, and difficulty sealing the lid properly. Always leave some space at the top of the container, especially when storing liquids. This allows room for expansion and reduces the risk of leaks.

Reheating Food at High Temperatures

Heating compostable containers at temperatures higher than recommended can cause them to warp or break down prematurely. Stick to low to medium heat settings, whether in the microwave or oven. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you’re using the container safely.

Using Containers Beyond Their Lifespan

Reusing compostable containers too many times can cause them to weaken, increasing the risk of leaks or breakage. Compostable containers are designed for limited reuse. Be mindful of their condition, and replace them when they start to show signs of wear.

Storing Hot Food Immediately

Placing hot food directly into a compostable container can cause the container to warp or degrade.

Solution: Allow food to cool to room temperature before transferring it into a compostable container. This helps preserve the integrity of the container and the quality of the food.

Ignoring Manufacturer Guidelines

Compostable containers are designed with specific uses and limitations in mind. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines is crucial to ensure their safety and effectiveness. This includes adhering to recommended temperature limits, knowing whether the container is microwave—or oven-safe, and understanding the appropriate lifespan of the container. Ignoring these guidelines can lead to issues like leaking, warping, or even contamination of your food.

Conclusion

Finding simple ways to live a little greener and healthier can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with everything else on our plates. But switching to compostable to-go containers is one of those easy changes that can make a real difference. These containers help cut down on plastic waste, keep harmful chemicals out of your food, and still offer all the convenience you need in a busy life.

If you are juggling work, family, and everything in between, it’s nice to know that something as simple as the container you use for leftovers can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and a cleaner planet. So, next time you’re packing up your meal or storing those leftovers, consider reaching for a compostable container. It’s a small step, but it helps you stay true to your values, take care of yourself, and do your part for the environment. So, why not start today? You will feel good knowing you’re making a choice that benefits both you and the world around you.

Today I’m sharing a delicious low-histamine recipe from my book, Nature’s Way to Healing. A Long Covid Guide. It’s a very yummy Hemp-crusted Chicken & Broccoli Buddha Bowl.

Long Covid has emerged as a significant health challenge, affecting millions worldwide. As someone who has personally battled this condition, I'm excited to share with you this delicious recipe that not only tastes delicious (I was lucky not to lose my taste buds!) but also supported my healing journey.

My new book is a comprehensive guide to Long Covid and the result of my personal experience with it and I undertook extensive research into cutting-edge treatments and recovery strategies which are included in the book along with an in-depth healing protocol. It's designed to help shorten the duration of Long Covid and get you back to feeling your best.

Why do Low-Histamine Recipes Matter for Long Covid?

One of the key aspects of managing Long Covid symptoms is controlling inflammation in the body. Many Long Covid sufferers experience histamine intolerance, which can exacerbate symptoms. That's why low-histamine recipes, like the one I'm about to share, can be so beneficial.

Low-histamine diets can help:

• Reduce inflammation
• Alleviate allergy-like symptoms
• Support gut health
• Regulate overall immune function

The potential benefits of a low histamine diet for Long Covid stem from the complex interactions between histamine, inflammation, and immune system dysfunction. Long Covid has been associated with mast cell activation syndrome in some patients, where mast cells release excessive amounts of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. By reducing dietary histamine intake, individuals may be able to lower their overall histamine load, potentially easing symptoms related to this mast cell hyperactivity.

In my research I discovered that Long Covid patients can develop histamine intolerance, where the body struggles to break down histamine efficiently. This can lead to an accumulation of histamine and subsequent symptoms. A low histamine diet can help manage this imbalance by reducing the incoming histamine burden. Long Covid can also disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to increased intestinal permeability or "leaky gut," which allows more histamine to enter the bloodstream. A low histamine diet can help reduce the burden on the gut and support its healing.

Histamine's role in neuroinflammation is particularly relevant to Long Covid, as it may contribute to symptoms like brain fog and cognitive issues. By reducing histamine intake, some people can find relief from these neurological symptoms. Histamine also plays a role in immune system regulation, and given the immune dysregulation observed in Long Covid, a low histamine diet could potentially help modulate this response.

The vascular effects of histamine are another consideration. Histamine can affect blood vessels, causing dilation and potentially contributing to symptoms like dizziness or POTS-like symptoms in Long Covid patients. Reducing histamine intake may help manage these effects. Additionally, Long Covid is associated with increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, both of which can be influenced by histamine levels. A low histamine approach might therefore support overall cellular health and function.

This Hemp-Crusted Chicken & Broccoli Buddha Bowl recipe is not only low in histamine but also has nutrients to support your recovery. The hemp seeds used in the crust are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their potent anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to calm the body's inflammatory response. Quinoa serves as the base of this bowl, offering a complete protein source that's also high in fibre and antioxidants, supporting overall health and digestion. Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable star, is packed with vitamins C and K, as well as sulforaphane, a compound celebrated for its anti-inflammatory effects. The dressing features extra-virgin olive oil, which contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, contributing to cardiovascular health and fighting oxidative stress. Lastly, tahini, made from ground sesame seeds, adds a creamy texture while providing a good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron, supporting bone health and energy production.

Together, these ingredients create a nutrient-dense meal that not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a range of compounds that may aid in the recovery process. Onima Pantry offers a variety of high-quality ingredients to help you create such nutritious meals at home.

Nature's Way to Healing: A Long Covid Guide

In my new book, I dive deep into the science behind Long Covid and provide practical, actionable steps for recovery. Drawing from my background as a clinical nutritionist and my personal experience with the condition, I offer:

• A holistic approach to tackling symptoms and addressing root causes
• Simple, easy-to-understand explanations of complex medical concepts
• Over 30 delicious low-histamine recipes to aid recovery
• Practical tips and tools for managing day-to-day life with Long Covid

Whether you're struggling with Long Covid yourself or supporting a loved one through their journey, this guide aims to provide the knowledge and resources you need to navigate this challenging condition.

Pre-order your special discounted copy now for delivery in mid-July at the links below. Let's embrace nature's wisdom together and find our way back to vibrant health!

For my Aussie readers: https://www.amazon.com.au/Natures-Way-Healing-Covid-Guide/dp/1922786047/

Booktopia: https://www.booktopia.com.au/nature-s-way-to-healing-lee-holmes/book/9781922786043.html

For my US friends: https://www.amazon.com/Natures-Way-Healing-Covid-Guide/dp/1922786047/

For my UK crew: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Natures-Way-Healing-Covid-Guide/dp/1922786047/

Nature’s Way to Healing. A Long Covid Guide

Waterstones: https://www.waterstones.com/book/natures-way-to-healing/lee-holmes/9781922786043

Bookshop.org UK: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/nature-s-way-to-healing-a-long-covid-guide-lee-holmes/7670886?ean=9781922786043 

You can also purchase a copy on my websites here:

www.superchargedfood.com/bookshelf

www.superchargeyourgut.com

www.superchargeyourgut.co.uk

Hemp-crusted Chicken & Broccoli Buddha Bowl 

Serves 1

• 2 tbsp almond meal
• 2 tbsp hemp seeds
• 1⁄2 tsp garlic powder
• 1⁄2 tsp sweet paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp tapioca starch, blended with 3 tsp water
• 1 skinless chicken breast
• 1 cup quinoa, cooked
• Small handful pea shoots, to serve

SALAD

• 1⁄4 head broccoli, steamed
• 1 carrot, sliced using a vegetable peeler
• 1 cucumber, peeled and sliced 
• 2 radishes, thinly sliced 
• Handful rocket

DRESSING

• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 
• 2 tbsp water
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp hemp seeds
• 1 tbsp tahini
• 1⁄2 tsp grated ginger 
• Salt

Method:

• Preheat the oven to 200oC (400oF).
• Combine the almond meal, hemp seeds, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper in a shallow dish.
• In a separate shallow dish, add the tapioca mixture. Place the tapioca dish, hemp dish and a lined baking tray in a row.
• Dip the chicken breast first in the tapioca then the hemp mixture. Place on the baking tray. Bake for 15–20 minutes before removing and slicing into strips.
• To make the dressing, combine all the ingredients together in a small bowl.
• To make the salad, add the quinoa to a large serving bowl, then add all the salad ingredients in individual piles. Top with the chicken, drizzle dressing generously over and scatter some pea shoots to serve.

It’s also good to remember, healing is a journey, and every small step counts. I hope this recipe brings you both nourishment and joy as you work towards recovery. 

Stay tuned for more updates!

Lee xo  

Here in Australia, as the brilliant leaves begin to fall and a crisp chill enters the air, autumn ushers in a new season of flavours ripe for nourishing our bodies and souls. This time of transition provides the perfect opportunity to adapt our eating habits to align with nature's rhythms, fortifying us with the warmth and nutrients we need to thrive during the cooler days.

I have a wonderful new recipe for you today, even if it's not autumn where you are, as I know many of my friends are in the UK and USA, this new dish is transeasonal and can be eaten anytime of year!

At farmers markets and grocer's stalls, you'll find an array of antioxidant-rich produce like vibrant pumpkins, hearty pumpkin, ruby-red apples, and deep purple grapes. For optimum health, why not load up on these superstars that are packed with immune-supporting vitamins A and C to help fend off infection.

Celebrate good health with fibre-filled whole grains like freekeh, farro, and wild rice. These ancient grains add a delightfully nutty, chewy texture to salads, pilaffs, and grain bowls while providing long-lasting energy to power you through busy days.

Now is the ideal time for nourishing meals that satiate us at a deep level and stoke our inner digestion. Be sure to incorporate plenty of leafy greens like kale, chard, and collards into your diet. Their hearty textures stand up well to braising and sautéing, making them perfect accompaniments to roasted lean meats, eggs, and plant-based proteins.

When it comes to fruit, crisp apples, pears, pomegranates, and citrus are reigning supreme right now. Opt for these vitamin C-loaded fruits to strengthen your immune defences. For a cosy treat, bake a batch of pears or apples drizzled with honey, cinnamon, and a sprinkle of chopped nuts and serve with Greek Yoghurt or coconut yoghurt.

Research shows that the best diet for our health is an anti-inflammatory approach. As you build your meals, don't forget to incorporate plenty of healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon. These satiating fats provide long-lasting energy and help us absorb fat-soluble vitamins from our colourful produce. 

This is one of my favourite recipes to enjoy this season. Overall, itcombines nutrient-dense ingredients like salmon, freekeh, greens, and nuts in a way that allows their flavours to shine. The contrasting textures from the crispy salmon, chewy freekeh, and crunchy radishes and nuts also make it delicious to eat.

Why not make it and let me know what you think of it in the comments section below?

Pan Roasted Salmon with Greened up Freekeh

Serves 2

Ingredients:

For the Green Dressing:

Method:

Rinse the Freekeh under cold water. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or vegetable broth to a boil.

Add the rinsed Freekeh to the boiling water, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Drain any excess water and let it cool.

To prepare the Green Dressing, add all ingredients to a food processor to whisk together. Pour into a bowl and set aside in fridge.

Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the pine nuts and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to make sure they don’t burn. Remove and set aside in a bowl. Season with a drizzle of olive oil and salt.

Pat the salmon fillets with dry a paper towel, then drizzle olive oil and massage salt and pepper on both sides.

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the salmon fillets, skin side down. 

Press the salmon gently flat with a spatula to prevent it from curling. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden. Flip the fillets and cook for another 3-4 minutes until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked Freekeh, chopped kale, dill, sliced radishes and dried cranberries. Pour the green dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.

Divide the salad among serving plates and top each with a crispy pan-fried salmon fillet.

Drizzle any extra dressing and sprinkle roasted pine nuts over.

I have a new FREEBIE for you.

Microbiome Magazine has just landed.

Get ready to explore your “inner” universe with our exciting new FREE online Microbiome Magazine, edited by me. 

There's a UK edition too. 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

It’s a celebration of the tiny but mighty organisms that make up our gut microbiome. We’re passionate about empowering you to nurture your inner flora through whole foods and lifestyle choices. That's why we’ve curated this magazine just for you!

An imbalance in your microbiome can contribute to issues like IBS, obesity, autoimmune conditions and more. But have no fear - Microbiome Magazine is here to be your guide to a thriving inner universe!

You'll EXPERIENCE: Better Gut Health through Self-Care Rituals and Gut Massages.
You'll DISCOVER: The Journey of Your Microbiome: From Birth to Adulthood.
You'll UNLOCK: Thriving Gut Secrets through Your Guide to Holistic Health & Wellness.

You'll also save with 20% off the Love Your Gut products featured in Microbiome Magazine.

Let's nurture our inner worlds together and may the flora be with you!

Just a thought

Be gentle, especially with yourself and your health. 

You can download the magazine here:

FREE online Microbiome Magazine,

Lee xo

Valentine's Day is here and what better way to celebrate love and sweetness than with homemade treats for your special someone?

If you're looking for a delightful and guilt-free dessert to share with your Valentine, Galantine or Palentine, look no further than my Cherry Ripe Bites.

Love is in the air, and Valentine's Day is the perfect time to shower your loved ones with sweet gestures and homemade treats. I've got you covered this year with my Cherry Ripe Bites, the ultimate combination of fruity goodness and rich chocolatey flavour, making them the perfect indulgence for you and your sweetheart.

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Made with wholesome ingredients like coconut, cherries, and raw cacao, these bites are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients and love. Plus, they're sugar-free and gluten-free, so you can enjoy them guilt-free!

Imagine the look of delight on your Valentine's face when they bite into these luscious Cherry Ripe Bites and taste the burst of fruity sweetness paired with decadent chocolate. It's a match made in heaven!

So this Valentine's Day, skip the store-bought chocolates and treat your special someone to a homemade delight that's sure to impress.

Whip up a batch of our Cherry Ripe Bites and spread the love with every delicious bite!

Cherry Ripe Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups desiccated coconut
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons coconut cream
• 2 tbsp Love Your Gut Powder
• 1 tbsp maple syrup 
• 1 cup cherries, pitted, frozen

Chocolate Coating:

• 2 tbsp coconut oil
• 2 tbsp cacao butter
• 2 tbsp raw cacao powder
• 2 TBS maple syrup

Method:

1. In a food processor, pulse coconut, coconut oil, coconut cream, Love Your Gut Powder, and maple syrup until combined. Be careful not to over mix. Add in the frozen cherries and pulse until combined.
2. Using your hands, scoop up about 2 tablespoons worth of mixture, shape into a round shape, and place on a tray. Repeat until you use up all of the mixture. Place in the freezer to set for 2 hours.
3. After about 1 ½ hours, prepare the chocolate coating by melting ingredients together in a small pot over low heat. Transfer to a bowl, place in the fridge for 15 minutes to let it thicken slightly.
4. To cover in chocolate coating, first prepare a rack over a tray to catch any dripping chocolate. Carefully dip the bites in the chocolate coating mixture and place on the rack. Note: You want to work quickly here to prevent them from melting. This is why it’s important your chocolate mixture isn’t too hot but is still melted and has a liquid consistency. You may wish to work in batches. Place back into the freezer as soon as possible to set the chocolate.
5. Store in the fridge in an airtight container.

Welcome back to the blog Superchargers!

Today, we're diving into the world of zucchinis, and trust me, it's going to be one delicious and nutritious ride. Picture this: tender zucchinis baked to perfection, infused with zesty ginger and lemongrass, on top of a creamy, minty, yogurt-y dressing... Are you drooling yet?

My recipe for Zesty Baked Zucchini with Mint and Yoghurt is not only a feast for the senses but also a celebration of simplicity and wholesome ingredients.

Before we get started, let's talk about zucchinis. These humble veggies may not always steal the spotlight, but they're packed with goodness and low in calories but high in fibre, making them a fantastic addition to any balanced diet. Plus, they’ll give you a nice dose of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and manganese, which are essential for overall health and wellbeing.

When it comes to choosing the perfect zucchini for our dish, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for zucchinis that are firm to the touch and free of any soft spots or blemishes. Size matters too – opt for medium-sized zucchinis that are uniform in shape for even cooking. And don't forget to give them a gentle squeeze – they should feel heavy for their size, indicating that they're nice and juicy inside.

I took this dish to a summer lunch on the weekend and it was a hit and looked delightful on the table. When it came to making it, firstly, I was keen to give the zucchinis some love. So I halved them, scored them diagonally, not just for a touch of flair and aesthetics, but also to help the flavours penetrate deep into the flesh, and then I showered them with ginger powder, lemongrass powder, tamari, and a generous drizzle of olive oil and placed them into the oven.

While the zucchinis were busy soaking up all those delicious flavours in the oven, I whipped up a creamy yogurt dressing with Greek yogurt, crumbly feta, garlic, a squeeze of lemon, and a handful of fresh mint from the garden. The sauce really came together in perfect harmony and the flavours just really complemented each other. Greek yogurt adds a dose of protein and probiotics, while feta cheese brings a tangy kick that perfectly balances the zesty flavours of the zucchinis. Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and mint add layers of complexity and freshness, elevating this dish to new heights of deliciousness. And for gut health I added a teaspoon of my Love Your Gut powder.

Once the zucchinis were golden and tender I assembled the dish using a large plate or you could also use a platter, I spooned on the luscious yogurt dressing, and then added the baked zucchini and topped it all off with extra garnishes. I used crumbled feta, torn mint leaves, crunchy flaked almonds (or pistachios if you're feeling fancy), a sprinkle of lemon zest, and of course, a final drizzle of olive oil for good measure.

My Zesty Baked Zucchini with Mint and Yoghurt, is a dish that's not only bursting with flavour but also packed with nutrients and cooked with love. So, whether you're cooking up a storm for your family dinner or hosting a lunch or dinner for friends party, this recipe is easy to make and very satisfying.

Zesty Baked Zucchini with Mint and Yoghurt

Ingredients for zucchini: 

• 4 zucchini halved and scored diagonally 
• Sea salt 
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder 
• 1/4 tsp lemon grass powder 
• 2 tbs tamari 
• 2 tbs Olive oil

Method: 

• Set oven to 200 degrees Celsius 
• Place salt on zucchini and let sit for 15 mins on a tray lined with baking paper
• Dab zucchinis with paper towel to remove excess moisture 
• Score the zucchini halves diagonally with a knife
• Drizzle with olive oil
• Sprinkle with ginger and lemongrass powder
• Splosh on some tamari 
• Place in the oven for 25-30 mins 

Meanwhile make the dressing 

Ingredients for dressing:

• 3 tbs Greek Yogurt
• 1/2 cup Feta
• 1 Garlic clove 
• Squeeze Lemon 
• Handful Mint
• 1 tsp Love Your Gut Powder

Method:

• Place in a small blender or food processor until creamy (being careful not to over process it)
• Scoop out dressing and with a spoon place it on a large plate or platter dish

Add zucchini onto the plate and top with any of the following: 

Ingredients for toppers:

• Crumbled Feta
• Torn Mint
• Flaked almonds (or pistachios)
• Lemon zest
• A drizzle of olive oil

Until next time, remember to nourish your body, feed your soul, and always keep the kitchen adventures alive! Let me know if you make it and what you think in the comments section below.