vegetables

Healing Chicken and Vegetable Soup

April 26, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Chicken, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian, Soups

This Healing Chicken and Vegetable soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with nutrition and nourishing ingredients to support and boost your immune system. It’s quick to prepare (in just 30 minutes), making it a wholesome go-to meal for busy days.

It’s one of my go-to meals for when anyone in the family feels a bit run down, it really is food for the soul.

Health benefits

Starting with bone broth, the most nourishing ‘super food’ and digestive tonic of all. For all you need to know about bone broth and how to make it click HERE. A good dose of protein and a rainbow of carbohydrate and fibre rich vegetables…what more could you ask for from a meal?

Ingredients

This chicken vegetable soup recipe combines diced chicken thighs, fresh vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and zucchini, and ginger and garlic, all simmered in a rich chicken stock. A garnish of coriander adds a fresh finish to this nourishing bowl.

How to make this healing chicken vegetable soup

Start by stir-frying chicken, garlic, and ginger in olive oil until the chicken is translucent. Add the broth and shiitake mushrooms, then bring to a simmer. Add the vegetables and cook until just tender, adjusting the seasoning to taste before serving with fresh coriander leaves.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve this gluten free soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh coriander (cilantro) for added freshness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently over low heat to preserve the flavours and textures.

Vary this healing chicken and vegetable soup to suit

For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with sliced omelette and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. If you’re avoiding garlic or onion, simply omit them or use garlic-infused oil. Feel free to customise the vegetables to suit your family’s preferences or what you have on hand (green beans, spinach, etc). You could also add noodles to turn it into a very nourishing chicken noodle soup.

For more delicious, easy to make healthy soup recipes, click HERE.

This Healing Chicken & Vegetable Soup is one of the most nutritious & nourishing meals about. It's easy to make & so delicious!

Print Recipe

5 from 5 votes

Healing Chicken and Vegetable Soup

This Healing Chicken and Vegetable Soup is one of the most nutritious and nourishing meals about. A delicious immune boosting soup.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Main Course

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
5 clove/s garlic - crushed or finely grated
1 tbsp ginger root - finely grated
8 boneless and skinless chicken thighs - diced
1 ltr chicken broth or stock
1½ tsp sea salt - if your broth is already salted reduce to taste
10 shiitake mushrooms - sliced
4 carrot/s - sliced
½ broccoli - broken into florets
2 red capsicum/s - diced
1 zucchini/s - diced
1 bunch/s fresh coriander leaves - chopped

Instructions

Place a large pot over a moderate heat with the oil, garlic, ginger and chicken thighs.
Stir-fry over a moderate heat for 5 minutes until the chicken looks translucent.
Add the broth, sea salt and shiitake mushrooms and bring to a simmer for another 5 minutes.
Then add the carrot, broccoli, capsicum and zucchini and cook for 5 more minutes to slightly soften the vegetables.
Check the seasoning. Sea salt really brings out the flavour in this simple soup.

Serve

Serve with the fresh coriander leaves.

Make-ahead

Re-heat in a pot over a low heat until just hot.

Store

Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Notes

Vegetarian

You can substitute the chicken with egg (I'd make a thin omelette and add that sliced). Use a vegetable broth to replace the chicken broth.

Onion and garlic-free

Omit garlic and/ or onion. You can add in a tablespoon of garlic oil if that is tolerated.

Vary the veggies

Feel free to tailor this to suit the veggies your family enjoys or whatever you have available in the fridge.

Like this recipe or have a question? Post it in the comments below.

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Sri Lankan Fish Curry

March 31, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Fish & Seafood, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian, Members only

Sri Lankan Fish Curry is a delicious dish that combines tender fish with a rich, spiced coconut cream sauce. The curry’s balance of spices, including cumin, coriander, and turmeric, creates a warm and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easily adaptable, allowing you to switch up ingredients based on your preferences and…

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Chickpea Vegetable Tagine

February 25, 2020 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian, Members only

This Chickpea Vegetable Tagine is one very nourishing pot of plant powered goodness. Science confirms that diets containing a diverse range of vegetables have healthier gut bacteria. So whilst eating vegetables is important, eating a good variety is beneficial for your gut and also nutritionally. Please don’t be put off by the long list of…

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Pumpkin Almond Hummus Salad

February 19, 2020 | Vegetarian, Members only, Salads, Side dishes

This delicious Pumpkin Almond Hummus Salad is one of my latest addictions. I’m a bit fussy when it comes to eating pumpkin…it has to be combined with the right flavours for me to enjoy it (and my kids are exactly the same). This recipe could be used for a light and fresh meal or a…

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Leek Capsicum Feta Omelette

February 3, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Vegetarian, Breakfast, Members only

This leek capsicum feta omelette is a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner. Quick to prepare, this dish is ideal for busy mornings or when you’re craving a tasty, satisfying meal. I love a tasty omelette and this Leek, Capsicum and Feta Omelette is just that. It’s something I…

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Baked Vegetables with Hummus

January 22, 2020 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Vegetarian, Members only, Salads, Side dishes

This Baked Vegetables with Hummus is a colourful variety of roasted vegetables paired with creamy, homemade hummus. Perfect as a light main or side dish, it’s a simple yet nutritious meal that is both satisfying and packed with flavour. This Baked Vegetables with Hummus recipe is a really versatile meal of plant powered, rainbow goodness….

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Asian Omelette with a Sprout Salad

January 14, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Vegetarian, Breakfast, Members only

I love omelettes and this one is a bit special. My Asian Omelette with a Sprout Salad makes for a sensational, nourishing breakfast, lunch or dinner. My kids absolutely love bean sprouts so any meal containing them, is always going to be a winner. It’s also super easy and quick to make. Health benefits Eggs…

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Cauliflower Rice

January 10, 2020 | Freezable Meals, Staples, Members only, Side dishes

Cauliflower rice is a great substitute for white rice and a fabulous way to increase the nutrition in a dish. Cauliflower supports liver detoxification pathways as well as the cardiovascular, immune and digestive systems. You can use this yummy side to substitute rice in pretty much any meal at all, either as a side, or…

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Breakfast Salsa

January 8, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Breakfast, Members only

This Breakfast Salsa is a simple, healthy start to the day. It can also be prepared the night before for a super fast, easy brekkie. My perfect breakfast always includes protein, good fats and carbohydrates in the form of vegetables and nuts. I find this kind of meal sets me up for a productive and…

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Christmas Leftovers Salad

December 18, 2019 | Pork recipes, Chicken, Vegetarian, Members only, Salads

I always over cater, especially the protein portion of the meal. We have a lot of meat lovers in our family and friend circle, so I wouldn’t live it down if what I served was shy. After the feast I always have leftovers, and so the Christmas Leftovers Salad was born. This salad is one…

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Mexican Tomato Salsa

December 11, 2019 | Sauces and Dressings, Members only

This delicious Mexican Tomato Salsa recipe is a fabulous, easy to make staple. With its Mexican flavours, it’s lovely served on tortilla chips or as a side to any Mexican fare. When friends drop in Often when friends drop by or I have to get something prepped quickly, I’ll make this Mexican Salsa and Guacamole for a…

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Charred Broccolini Salad

November 20, 2019 | Vegetarian, Salads

This Charred Broccolini Salad is such a delicious dish, featuring charred broccolini, crispy haloumi, and toasted pine nuts. It’s tossed with watercress (or any green you like) and a tangy preserved lemon dressing, creating a perfect balance of smoky, salty, and zesty flavours. Ideal for a light lunch or as a side for grilled meats.

Health benefits

Broccolini is rich in fibre, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support immune function and bone health. Haloumi provides protein and calcium, while pine nuts add healthy fats. The watercress brings additional vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and folate, and the preserved lemon in the dressing boosts vitamin C intake, enhancing the immune-supporting properties of this dish.

Ingredients

This recipe calls for broccolini, haloumi, and watercress, paired with toasted pine nuts and preserved lemon. The dressing combines honey, Dijon mustard, turmeric, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil, adding layers of flavour to the salad.

How to make Broccolini Haloumi Salad

To make this Broccolini Haloumi Salad, start by heating your BBQ grill or griddle pan over a high heat. Toss the bunch broccolini (including the stems) and haloumi in olive oil, then grill them until the broccolini is lightly charred and the haloumi is golden. Toast the pine nuts until brown, and finely slice the skin of the preserved lemon. For the dressing, combine all ingredients in a small bowl or jar, and shake to mix. Assemble the salad by placing watercress in a bowl, adding the grilled broccolini, haloumi, pine nuts, preserved lemon. Drizzle over the dressing and toss it well.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve this salad immediately for best flavour and texture, while the broccolini and haloumi are warm. It’s an excellent side for grilled meats or as a stand-alone light dish. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days, but the haloumi may lose its crispness upon reheating.

Vary this Charred Broccolini Salad to suit your dietary needs

For a dairy-free or vegan version, omit the haloumi and replace it with cashew nut cheese or tofu. If you’re following a nut-free diet, substitute the pine nuts with toasted sunflower seeds. If you can’t find preserved lemon, replace it with the zest of one lemon and a pinch of sea salt. Though preserved lemon adds a unique flavour, this alternative will still provide a fresh citrusy note. If you can’t access broccolini you can sub it with broccoli florets.

Take a look at the variations (below the main recipe) for suggestions to alter the recipe to suit your specific dietary requirements (vegan/ nut free).

For more delicious, easy to make healthy salad recipes, click HERE.

Charred broccolini on the BBQ combined with the saltiness of the haloumi and the citrus salad dressing create a very delicious and nourishing meal or side.

Print Recipe

5 from 12 votes

Charred Broccolini Salad

I love to char grill broccolini on the BBQ, I think it really brings out the flavour. Combined with the saltiness of the haloumi and the citrus salad dressing, this Charred Broccolini Salad makes for a delicious and very nourishing meal or side.

Prep Time15

Cook Time10

Total Time25

Course: Salad

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

1 bunch/s broccolini
100 g haloumi
30 ml extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin (2 tbsp)
¼ cup/s pinenuts -toasted
60 g watercress (you could also use rocket or baby spinach if you prefer)
1 preserved lemon

Dressing

1 tsp honey
1 tsp dijon mustard
¼ tsp ground turmeric
½ lemon/s -juice and zest
60 ml extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin (¼ cup)

Instructions

Heat your BBQ grill or griddle pan.
Toss the broccolini and haloumi in the olive oil and grill until the broccolini begins to just char and the haloumi is golden brown.
Toast the pine nuts until just brown.
Remove the flesh from the preserved lemon and finely slice the skin.

Dressing

Make the dressing by combining all of the ingredients together in a small bowl or shake in a re-cycled jar.

Serve

Place the watercress in a salad bowl. Add the rest of the ingredients, toss through the dressing and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Dairy free

Omit the haloumi and replace with cashew nut cheese.

Vegan

Omit the haloumi and replace with cashew nut cheese or tofu. Substitute the honey with rice malt or maple syrup.

Nut-free

Replace the pine nuts with toasted sunflower seeds.

No preserved lemon

Preserved lemon is available in most supermarkets or gourmet shops. If you can't source it, then replace it with the zest of one lemon and a good pinch of sea salt. But if you can find it, it's so well worth it. You'll keep adding it to salads because it adds such a fabulous flavour.

I'd love to hear how you like this recipe. Post a comment and rate this recipe below.

Raw Vegetable Salad

August 17, 2019 | Vegetarian, Members only, Salads

This seriously versatile Raw Vegetable Salad is one of my kids favourite ways to eat their vegetables. If using a food processor it takes just minutes to make and it’s sure to become a firm favourite. Feel free to play with different combinations of veggies and nuts or seeds. I often make this when I…

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Crispy Roast Potatoes

July 24, 2019 | Members only, Side dishes

Once you’ve eaten perfectly Crispy Roast Potatoes you’ll accept nothing less….and this simple recipe will guarantee the perfect spud every-single-time. I’ve found little things like heating the fat makes a real difference to the outcome, so this is a recipe that whilst simple, will only yield a crunch if you follow the recipe closely. Crispy…

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Sweet and Sour Chicken Adobo

June 5, 2019 | Make-ahead Meals, Chicken, Freezable Meals, Members only

This Sweet and Sour Chicken Adobo is my take on a traditional Filipino dish, ‘Chicken Adobo.’ But with a bit of a Chinese twist. The balance between sweet and sour is a delicate one, but if achieved it makes for an unforgettable meal. This is a meal I often make when my kids are snotty….

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Buckwheat Broccolini Bowl

June 5, 2019 | Vegetarian, Members only

This Buckwheat Broccolini Bowl is easy to make and super delicious. Plus, it’s easy to modify for various dietary preferences, making it a great addition to your meal rotation. If you haven’t tried cooking with buckwheat this is a great place to start. It’s inexpensive, very versatile, and super nourishing. I recently sent my mum…

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Roast Potatoes with Garlic Miso

June 4, 2019 | Members only, Side dishes

These Roast Potatoes with Garlic Miso are a really simple yet delicious way to enjoy potatoes. It’s also lovely made with sweet potatoes (or a combination). I think flavour wise, the garlic miso sauce is the perfect accompaniment to the crispy roasted potatoes. I love to make this dish as a mid-week side and it’s…

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Superfood Quinoa Pilau

May 20, 2019 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Vegetarian, Side dishes

This Superfood Quinoa Pilau is a wholesome, nourishing dish packed with nutrient-dense ingredients. With a perfect balance of flavors from quinoa, sweet potato, kale, and goji berries, this pilau can be enjoyed on its own or as a delicious side dish. It’s versatile and customisable, making it ideal for any meal.

By now you all know I love to put a healthy spin on classic recipes and make them as nourishing as possible (without any compromise on taste). This delicious Superfood Quinoa Pilau recipe is my twist on the classic, which is traditionally made with rice.

The ‘superfood’ tag is generally used to describe foods that are particularly high in essential nutrients, phytonutrients and antioxidants. They are especially immune supportive and provide a wide range of essential vitamins and minerals to your body.

This recipe is super given that it’s a combination of particularly nutrient dense superfood ingredients. I hope you love it.

Superfood health benefits

Quinoa (pronounced ‘kin-wah’) is a complete plant based protein which has an extraordinary nutrient profile.

Kale is a fibre rich, nutritional powerhouse. It’s a great source of antioxidant vitamins A and C, as well as protective isothiocyanates and indoles (phytonutrients).

Goji Berries are an immune supportive, anti-oxidant rich, very nutrient dense food. They are my number one choice when it comes to dried fruit.

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. In a word where inflammation underpins so many disease, turmeric is an important part of a healthy diet.

For more practical info on ‘superfoods’ and how to include them in your diet, click HERE.

Ingredients

This pilau uses quinoa, sweet potato, kale, and pumpkin seeds, with cinnamon, cardamom, turmeric, black pepper, and topped with goji berries.

How to make this superfood pilau

Start by rinsing or soaking quinoa to remove bitterness, then cook it with onion, sea salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. While the quinoa cooks, roast diced sweet potato with cinnamon and olive oil, then add kale and pumpkin seeds for the last few minutes to crisp them. After the quinoa has cooked, fluff it and mix in the turmeric and black pepper. Combine it with the roasted veggies, and top with goji berries just before serving.

Serving suggestions and how to store

This dish can be served on its own or with grilled, baked, or BBQ’d protein like fish, chicken, or tofu. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. For make-ahead prep, keep the roasted kale and pumpkin seeds separate until serving to preserve their crunch.

Vary this to suit your dietary needs

To make this recipe vegan or vegetarian, use vegetable stock or water to cook the quinoa. For a quicker version, use leftover cooked quinoa and skip some of the preparation steps. You can also add more vegetables or swap them out based on what you have on hand—this dish is easily customisable to suit your preferences.

This Superfood Quinoa Pilau is a nutrient-dense meal or side dish. It contains a variety of superfoods to support & nourish your body.

Print Recipe

5 from 2 votes

Superfood Quinoa Pilau

This Superfood Quinoa Pilau is a nutrient dense meal or side dish. It contains a fabulous variety of superfoods to support and truely nourish your body.

Prep Time15

Cook Time25

Total Time40

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

170 g quinoa (1 cup)
1 red onion/s -finely diced
500 ml water (2 cups) or bone broth
1½ tsp sea salt - or to taste
1 cinnamon quill
4 cardamom pods -bruised
1 sweet potato/s -diced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 bunch/s kale -leaves torn off stems
30 g pumpkin seeds (¼ cup)
30 g goji berries
½ tsp ground turmeric
ground black pepper

Metric - US Customary

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F (fan-forced).
Rinse the quinoa really well in a fine sieve or ideally soak it for 1-12 hours to remove the bitter tasting saponins.
Finely dice the red onion and put into a pot with the quinoa and 2 cups of water or broth. Add ½ teaspoon of sea salt, cinnamon quill and cardamon pods. Bring to the boil then reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes or until the water is all absorbed.
Whilst that is simmering, line a large oven tray with baking paper.
Dice the sweet potato into 2 cm pieces and place at one end of the tray leaving room for the kale and pumpkin seeds which you'll add later.
Drizzle with half tablespoon of the olive oil, toss and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of the sea salt and the cinnamon. Bake for 20 minutes.
Now wash the kale leaves well and tear the soft leaves from the woody stem. Place them into your serving/ salad bowl and add the remaining one and half tablespoons of olive oil and ½ teaspoon of the sea salt. Massage the oil into the leaves.
After the sweet potato has cooked for 12 minutes, add half of the kale leaves, in a single layer. I choose the thicker outer leaves to roast and reserve the younger, more tender leaves for the salad.
Also add the pumpkin seeds to the tray. Cook along side the sweet potato for the remaining 8 minutes to crisp the kale leaves and toast the pumpkin seeds.
By now your quinoa will be close to being cooked. Stir it and make sure it has absorbed the water or broth. Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let the quinoa steam for 5 minutes. This step gives the quinoa time to pop open and the little white spiral to appear. Fluff with a fork and allow to cool a little. Add the turmeric and black pepper and mix well.
You can serve this dish either warm or cold. If serving cold allow the quinoa to cool completely.
Remove the cinnamon quill and add the quinoa to the salad or serving bowl.
Mix in the roasted sweet potato, pumpkin seeds and top with the crisp kale (add the pumpkin seeds and crispy kale right before serving or they lose their crunch).
Sprinkle over the goji berries and enjoy.

Serve

As is or with a simple piece of grilled, baked or BBQ'd protein like fish, chicken, red meat or a vegetarian protein.

Make-ahead

Just keep the kale chips and pumpkin seeds aside until serving.

Store

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Vegetarian and vegan

Choose water or vegetable stock to cook the quinoa.

Onion-free

Replace the onion with finely diced fennel.

Cheats version

Use leftover cooked quinoa. Fry the red onion in a little olive oil to soften it. Then add the pre-cooked quinoa, half teaspoon ground cardamon, half teaspoon ground cinnamon (these replace the quill and pods) and one teaspoon sea salt. Toss together and continue from step 5 in the method.

Add more/different vegetables

Yes, you can absolutely add in extra or different vegetables. It's a very versatile dish.

grains lemon chicken broth mushroom

Simple Guacamole

May 2, 2019 | Healthy Lunchbox, After School Snacks, Savoury Snacks, Dips, Members only

This simple and healthy guacamole recipe is creamy and full of fresh flavour. Made with ripe avocado, a splash of lime, and a pinch of sea salt, it’s perfect as a dip, spread, or to add a delicious twist to any dish. Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit a variety of dietary preferences. It’s funny,…

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Tomato Salsa

April 16, 2019 | Dips, Members only

This delicious Tomato Salsa recipe is a fabulous, easy to make staple that is a great addition to any table. With vine-ripened tomatoes, red onion, and basil, it’s a simple yet flavorful recipe perfect for dipping, topping, or serving as a side dish. With its Italian flavours, is lovely served on a crostini or even…

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Mediterranean Chicken Bake

February 13, 2019 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Chicken, Healthy Lunchbox

This is one of my ultimate time saving meals that also doubles as a great lunchbox main. My Mediterranean Chicken Bake is prep to plate in 30 minutes and I strongly recommend you make a double batch for a few days of quick and simple lunches.

Last week we added to our family an adorable puppy – Bonnie. My teen also started at a new school so I now have two kids at two different schools. So between chasing after this tiny creature who feels like a cross between a new born (minus a nappy) and a toddler, and spending more time each day driving my kids about, meals like this one that require minimal effort have been my saviour. Plus, the kids are loving it in their lunchbox in my grain-free wraps (recipe in the Well Nourished Lunchbox ebook).

Health benefits

Chicken thighs are packed with protein and essential nutrients, while the sweet potato adds a healthy dose of fibre and antioxidants like beta-carotene. The red capsicum offers a boost of vitamin C, and the olive oil provides healthy fats.

Ingredients

You’ll need boneless skinless chicken thighs, red capsicums (bell peppers), sweet potato, red onion, olive oil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. For the lemony mayo, mix whole egg mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, honey, and seasoning. These simple ingredients come together for a flavour-packed bake.

How to make Mediterranean Chicken Bake

Preheat your oven to 180℃/350℉ and prepare a baking dish or sheet pan. Slice the chicken, sweet potato, capsicum, and onion, then toss them with a couple tablespoon of olive oil, oregano, smoked paprika, lemon zest, and seasoning. Spread everything in a single layer on the tray and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Mix the mayo ingredients together and serve with the chicken bake.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve this Mediterranean Chicken Bake in lettuce cups, tortillas, or wraps for a lighter meal, or over rice, quinoa, or couscous for something more filling. Leftovers are great in a salad or wrap for school lunches (or mum or dad lunches). Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy cold or reheat in a low oven.

Vary this Mediterranean Chicken Bake to suit your needs

For an onion-free version, swap out the red onion for baby fennel. If you’re avoiding garlic, try using cumin and cayenne instead. For a fructose-friendly option, use rice malt syrup in place of honey. Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with mushrooms and nuts, while vegans can also use cashew cream instead of mayo. Also feel free to add in other vegetables (zucchini or cauliflower would be nice) or ingredients (kalamata olives or feta cheese would work well too). You can sub the thigh with chicken breast, just watch it closely as it is a lot less forgiving and can over cook (unlike thigh meat).

Save time and sanity packing school lunches

Do you spend a heap of time searching the internet for recipes which you lovingly cook, only to find your kids fuss and don’t enjoy what you’ve made?

The ‘Well Nourished Lunchbox’ ebook is here to help…and it’s SO much more than just another recipe book!

As Natasha wrote on facebook…

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Take a look at the variations (below the main recipe) for suggestions to alter the recipe to suit any specific dietary requirements (including making this dish vegetarian or vegan).

Mediterranean Chicken Bake (with lemony mayonnaise) - A super fast and easy to make, delicious and nutritious tray bake meal. Mid-week meals don't get a whole lot better.

Print Recipe

4.91 from 30 votes

Mediterranean Chicken Bake (with lemony mayonnaise)

This Mediterranean Chicken Bake is a one-tray wonder, full of vibrant colours and bold flavours. With chicken thighs, sweet potato, capsicum and a hint of smoky paprika, it's a delicious, wholesome meal perfect for weeknights. Serve it with a refreshing lemony mayo for an extra zing.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

500 g chicken thighs
2 red capsicum/s (large)
1 sweet potato/s (kumara)
1 red onion/s
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 lemon/s -zest
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste

Lemony mayo

115 g whole egg mayonnaise (½ cup)
1 clove/s garlic -minced
½ lemon/s – juice
1 tsp honey
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste

Instructions

Pre-heat the oven to 180℃/350℉ (fan-forced).
Finely slice the chicken, capsicums, sweet potato and red onion. Place on a large baking tray and drizzle over the olive oil. Add the oregano, smoked paprika, lemon zest, sea salt and pepper.
Toss together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated and arrange in a single layer on the tray.
Place the tray into the oven and bake for 20-25 mins until browned and the chicken is cooked through.
Now make the lemony mayo by mixing all of the ingredients together in a small bowl.

Serve

For a light meal, serve in a lettuce cup, tortilla or wrap with the lemony mayo and leafy greens
Or tossed through mixed greens (dressed with olive oil and lemon juice) for a delicious salad. I also like to add in olives and cherry tomatoes.
For a bulked up meal, it’s lovely over rice, quinoa or cous cous.
Leftovers are fabulous in a wrap or as a salad for lunch.

Make-ahead

Re-heat in a low oven until just hot.

Store

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Onion-free

Replace the red onion with baby fennel.

Garlic-free

Replace the garlic with a pinch of cumin and cayenne.

Fructose friendly

Replace the honey with rice malt syrup.

Egg-free

Replace the mayo with natural yoghurt or Cashew Nut Cream.

Vegetarian

Replace the chicken with 300g of brown or field mushrooms. Plus 1 cup of cashew nuts or almonds (throw on the tray for the last 10 minutes of baking).

Vegan

See vegetarian variation. Replace the honey with rice malt syrup and and the mayo with cashew cream.

I hope you and your family love this recipe. Help me to reach more people with simple, nourishing whole foods. Leave a comment, rate this recipe or share it on socials.

One Pan Chicken Fajitas

January 3, 2019 | Make-ahead Meals, Chicken

These One Pan Chicken Fajitas are a quick, healthy, and flavour-packed meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep, one baking tray, and customisable toppings, they’re sure to become a family favourite.

This week’s recipe, One Pan Chicken Fajitas, is one of many fabulous recipes in this years incredible Healthy Meal Planning bundle (along with 28 of my own recipes). I made it for my family during the holidays and they just loved it so I thought I’d better share it. Thanks to Heather from Passion For Savings for agreeing to let me feature it. It’s super quick and easy to make, with just one pan to wash (always a bonus) and it’s really, really tasty. It can also be easily customised to suit your tastes and food goals.

Health benefits

Chicken is a great source of lean protein, while the capsicums and onions provide a boost of vitamins and antioxidants. The homemade fajita seasoning adds a smoky flavour without the additives found in store-bought mixes.

Ingredients

This healthy Mexican recipe uses boneless chicken breasts or thighs, capsicums, and red onion. To make the fajita seasoning, mix Mexican chilli powder, smoked paprika, onion and garlic powder, cayenne powder and ground cumin. Extra virgin olive oil brings everything together for a simple, satisfying bake that’s loaded with flavour.

How to make sheet pan chicken fajitas

Preheat your oven and start preparing the fajita seasoning by mixing all the spices together. Slice the chicken, capsicums, and onion into thin strips, then arrange them on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle over the seasoning blend. Toss everything well to coat evenly, then bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve the One Pan Chicken Fajitas in lettuce wraps topped with cheddar, coriander, radish, and lime wedges. For added creaminess, pair them with guacamole, diced avocado or even sour cream. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated gently in a low oven until warmed through.

Vary this One Pan Chicken Fajitas to suit your needs

If you need an onion and garlic-free version, simply omit these ingredients as the other spices will still provide plenty of flavour. To make this dish vegetarian or vegan, replace the chicken with mushrooms and reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes. For extra protein, toss black beans in the reserved spice mix and add them to the tray during the final five minutes of cooking. For a low-carb option, serve the fajitas with cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps. Add Mexican Salsa for a special twist or even Guacamole.

These One Pan Chicken Fajitas are a delicious, quick, easy and healthy dish to add to your meal plan. It's fast family food at it's best.

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4.93 from 14 votes

One Pan Chicken Fajitas

These One Pan Chicken Fajitas are a delicious, quick, easy and healthy dish to add to your meal plan. It's fast family food at it's best.

Prep Time10

Cook Time25

Total Time35

Course: Main Course

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

500 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts (I've also used thigh meat)
2 red capsicum/s
1 red onion/s -peeled
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin

Fajita seasoning

2 tsp Mexican spice mix (my spice blend recipe here)
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
½ tsp ground cumin

Instructions

Pre-heat your oven to 350°F/180°C (fan-forced).
Prepare fajita seasoning by mixing all of the spices together. Set aside
Cut the chicken, onion and bell peppers into thin strips and place on a sheet pan or baking dish.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Sprinkle with homemade fajita seasoning.
Toss with tongs or spatula to get everything evenly coated.
Bake for about 25-30 minutes (stir halfway through).

Serve

Serve in lettuce wraps with cheese and your favourite toppings!
I've served it here with cheddar, coriander (cilantro) leaves, radish and fresh lime juice. But you can tailor this to suit your families needs and tastes.
I love it with Guacomole or diced avocado too.

Make-ahead

Re-heat in a low oven until just hot.

Store

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Onion and garlic-free

You can omit them all, the other spices add loads of flavour.

Vegetarian and vegan

Replace the chicken with 300g of brown or field mushrooms and reduce the cooking time to 20 minutes. Reserve 1 tsp of spice mix and toss through 1 drained and rinsed can of black beans. Add these to the baking tray 5 minutes before the vegetables are ready to warm them.

I'd love to hear how you enjoy this simple, delicious meal. Let me know by posting a comment below.

Beetroot Maple Pecan Salad

November 28, 2018 | Vegetarian, Salads

This beetroot maple pecan salad is a nutrient-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With steamed beetroot, crunchy maple-roasted pecans, feta, and fresh greens, topped with a tangy, sweet vinaigrette, it’s sure to impress!

I always make this beetroot maple pecan salad when I see beautiful beets with the tops attached. The stems and leaves are all part of this delicious and super nourishing salad. It truely is, food-as-medicine.

The flavours in this delicious dish are perfect to accompany Christmas meats this festive season. Enjoy!

Health benefits

Beetroot is a rich source of fibre and many valuable and protective nutrients. It is a unique source of betaine, a nutrient that is known to help protect against inflammation. It also supports liver detoxification, improves vascular risk factors, enhances energy and is likely to help prevent numerous chronic diseases. The watercress is another very nutrient dense food. With a high antioxidant content it is protective across a wide range of health conditions.

For lots more sides and salad inspo, take a look at my hugely popular ebook ˜Well Nourished Sides and Salads’– where vegetables become the hero of the dish! It’s great value at just $9.95, click HERE to take a look.

Ingredients

This salad includes beetroot, maple roasted pecans and feta. The watercress and beet leaves provide a peppery flavour to the salad.

How to make this beetroot maple pecan salad

To make this roast beet salad, first prepare the dressing by combining all the ingredients and letting it infuse for at least an hour. Steam the beetroot until tender and roast the pecans with maple syrup. Once everything has cooled, toss the beet leaves, watercress, cooked beetroot, pecans, and feta together with the dressing, and serve immediately.

Serving suggestions and how to store

This salad is best served fresh but can be prepped ahead by steaming the beetroot, roasting the pecans, and making the dressing in advance. Store each element separately in airtight containers, then assemble just before serving for maximum crunch and freshness.

Vary this beetroot maple pecan salad to suit your needs

For a dairy-free or vegan option, swap the feta for vegan cheese or dollops of cashew cream. To make it nut-free, replace the pecans with maple-roasted pumpkin seeds. For a fructose-friendly version, use rice malt syrup instead of maple syrup and skip the currants. If you don’t have sherry vinegar, you can sub red wine vinegar and a teaspoon of maple syrup or balsamic vinegar. The feta can also be subbed with goat cheese if you prefer.

This beetroot maple pecan salad is both delicious and nutritious! I always make this when I see beautiful beets with the tops attached.

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4.75 from 4 votes

Beetroot, Maple Pecan Salad

Beetroot is my favourite vegetable to use root to stem. The whole plant is bursting with so much nourishment and it’s super delicious when combined with a tasty dressing and the sweet, protein-rich pecans.

Prep Time10

Cook Time20

Total Time30

Course: Salad

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

Dressing

2 tbsp sherry vinegar (can sub red wine vinegar and a teaspoon of maple syrup)
90 ml extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin (⅓ cup)
40 g currants (¼ cup)

Salad

4 raw beetroot (medium) washed & leaves trimmed
50 g beetroot leaves & stems (the inner, younger leaves are best) **
125 g pecan nuts (1 cup)
2 tbsp maple syrup
100 g watercress See note below **
100 g feta cheese

Instructions

Begin by making the dressing. Combine all of the ingredients together in a jar and set aside for at least 1 hour (you could also make this a day ahead).
Preheat your oven to 150℃/380°F (fan-forced).
For the salad, cut the beetroot into quarters and steam for 15-20 mins or until tender enough for a knife or fork to slide in easily. Once cooked, remove from the basket and allow them to cool before removing the skin by rubbing with a cloth or peeling.
Set aside the young leaves (with the watercress) and finely dice the stems. Add them to the steamer basket to cook for 3-5 mins (or until just tender). Allow to cool fully.
Whilst the beetroot is cooking, toss the pecans with the maple syrup and put into the pre-heated oven to roast for 10 mins.
Just before serving, assemble the salad by placing all the ingredients in a serving bowl and tossing through the dressing.
Enjoy immediately.
** feel free to substitute the watercress or beet leaves with any other leafy green (like rocket, baby spinach or cos).

Notes

Dairy-free and vegan

Replace the feta with a good quality vegan cheese or blobs of cashew cream.

Fructose friendly

Replace the maple syrup with rice malt syrup. Omit the currants.

Nut-free

Replace the pecans with pumpkin seeds. They are also very delicious roasted with the maple syrup.

Time-saving Tip

You can always make the dressing and steam the beetroot and stems the day before. Also roast the pecans and store each part separately in airtight containers. Then simply allow to return to room temperature and assemble the salad before serving.

I hope you love this root to tip salad. Let me know if you try it by posting a comment below!

instructions pepper salt taste mustard toast drizzle

Vegan Rice Paper Rolls

October 24, 2018 | Vegetarian, Savoury Snacks

These Vegan Rice Paper Rolls are light, refreshing, and packed with colourful veggies and herbs. They are paired with a creamy peanut dipping sauce for an irresistible combination. Perfect for a light lunch, snack, or party appetiser, these rolls are also a fun way to add variety to your meals.

With the warmer weather ahead of us, I thought it time to spring into summer with a fresh, delicious meal or snack. My family LOVES fresh rice paper rolls. We fill them with all kinds of things (including leftovers), but this is our go-to often. I think fresh herbs are really what makes rice paper rolls delicious – they add so much flavour so I never make them without some kind of herb inside.

I am so grateful for my little herb wall garden it helps to ensure I always have fresh, organic, in-season herbs and greens to flavour my meals and pack a healing, health supporting punch. I especially love that it’s not costing me a small fortune for a puny little bunch of nutritionally sub-standard, generally hydroponically grown herbs.

Health benefits

Rice paper rolls are naturally gluten-free, and this vegan version is packed with fibre from the fresh vegetables, healthy fats from avocado, and probiotics from the sauerkraut or kimchi. The dipping sauce contains peanut butter for plant-based protein and healthy fats, making these rolls both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients

These vegan summer rolls are filled with vermicelli rice noodles, crunchy capsicum, creamy avocado, fresh herbs like mint and coriander (cilantro), and fermented sauerkraut or kimchi for a tangy twist. The peanut sauce is a simple mix of peanut butter, tamari, rice wine vinegar, and rice malt syrup, which gives it a delicious balance of salty, sweet, and tangy flavours.

How to make Vegan Rice Paper Rolls

To make these fresh spring rolls, start by soaking the vermicelli noodles and preparing your vegetables. Lay softened rice paper wrap on a damp surface, place the filling ingredients in the centre, and roll tightly. Mix the dipping sauce ingredients in a bowl, adjusting the consistency with water as needed. Serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve these rice paper rolls with the peanut dipping sauce on the side. To store, keep the rolls in an airtight container lined with baking paper and covered with a damp cloth, but they are best enjoyed fresh. Store the dipping sauce in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week.

Vary these Vegan Rice Paper Rolls to suit your needs

For a nut-free version, replace peanut butter with tahini. If you’re soy-free, swap tamari with coconut aminos. You can also leave out the sesame seeds if needed. For more filling options, you can explore different vegetables (like cucumber, carrot, red cabbage, bean sprouts), tofu, or even leftover meats if not following a vegan diet.

Remember to take a look at the variations (below the main recipe). Here, you’ll find suggestions to alter the recipe to suit your dietary goals.

These healthy, delicious Vegan Rice Paper Rolls (with a very tasty, easy to make dipping sauce) are a quick, easy & nourishing meal or snack.

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5 from 4 votes

Vegan Rice Paper Rolls

I always add fermented vegetables to fresh rice paper rolls. They add a lovely tang to the filling and a whole lot of gut supporting goodness too. The dipping sauce in this recipe is so delicious and so much healthier than anything store bought.

Prep Time22

Total Time25

Course: Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: Asian

Servings:

Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

6 pieces rice paper (spring roll paper) I love the Spiral Organics Rice paper
100 g vermicelli rice noodles (approx.)
6 tsp sauerkraut or kim chi
½ red capsicum/s -sliced into 6 strips
½ avocado/s -sliced into 6 strips
6 lettuce leaves -small ones rolled up (or halve large ones)
6 sprigs fresh mint leaves (or Vietnamese mint)
6 sprigs fresh coriander or basil (regular or Thai basil)
1 tbsp black sesame seeds to garnish (optional)

Dipping sauce

3 tbsp peanut butter
1 tbsp tamari
1 tbsp rice malt syrup
1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
1 tbsp water
Pinch chill flakes -to taste

Instructions

Start by putting the noodles into a bowl and covering with boiling water whilst you prepare the other ingredients.
To make the dipping sauce, combine all of the ingredients together in a small bowl. If the sauce is too thick, you can always add a little more water, teaspoon by teaspoon.
Prepare your vegetables on one plate so you can work quickly to assemble each roll. Drain the noodles once they have softened into a bowl.
Wet a chopping board so it is damp. Take a sheet of rice paper and run it under luke warm water so both sides are wet. Lay it flat on the chopping board (it will continue to soften as it sits).
Place the ingredients horizontally, across the middle of the rice paper. 1 tsp of the sauerkraut or kim chi, a slice of capsicum and avocado. A piece of rolled lettuce, a sprig of mint and coriander in each, followed by about ¼ cup noodles.
Fold the top half of the rice paper down, then fold the sides in and roll towards you tucking the ingredients in to form a neat roll.
You can also sprinkle with black sesame seeds to serve. Enjoy immediately with the dipping sauce.

Store

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge.
The rice paper rolls can be stored in an airtight container lined with baking paper and covered with a wet cloth. The paper does go a bit sticky with storage so they are best enjoyed fresh.

Notes

Add meat

If you’re not vegan, feel free to add in seafood or chicken or any leftover meat really.

Nut-free

Replace the peanut butter with tahini.

Soy-free

Replace the tamari with coconut or liquid aminos.

Sesame-free

Leave the black sesame seeds off.

More rice paper roll filling ideas

Click here for lots more filling inspo.