Vegetables!
The winter months bring a whole host of delicious vegetables, bursting with hearty flavours and endless possibilities. Root vegetables like parsnips, carrots, and turnips take centre stage, while winter greens, leeks, and cabbages offer vibrant pops of nutrition. These vegetables can be used as comfort foods whilst being full of the vitamins and minerals our bodies need to stay healthy through the colder months. We can easily add depth and nourishment to our meals with a bit of experimenting. Plus, eating seasonally available veg supports local growers and the environment—a win-win for us all.
Meat-Free Mondays: Protein Boosters
Meat-Free Mondays are a brilliant way to experiment with plant-based meals while keeping your protein levels in check. Swapping meat for beans, lentils, or chickpeas is not only cost-effective but also surprisingly simple. Red or green lentils, for example, make a perfect substitute for mince in dishes like shepherd’s pie or spaghetti Bolognese. Lentils are rich in protein and fibre, giving your meal that satisfying “full” feeling and you can flavour them as you would the meat version. Similarly, black beans or kidney beans work wonderfully in stews, chilli, or even burgers, adding a delicious rich taste.
Try this lentil and mushroom bolognese.
Easy Winter Veg Recipe Ideas
Carrot Fries: Cut carrots into fries, toss with olive oil, smoked paprika, and a touch of garlic powder, and roast until golden. Sweet, smoky, and great as a side.
Parsnip Crisps: Finely slice parsnips (a vegetable peeler is great for this), toss in olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, then bake until crisp. A crunchy, snack great as they are or used as a soup topping (try it)!
Cajun Roast Green Beans: Coat green beans in a drizzle of olive oil and Cajun seasoning, then roast until tender and slightly charred. Perfect as a side or as part of a roast.
Garlic Lemon Broccoli: Steam broccoli florets until tender, then toss with olive oil, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic. Sprinkle with a pinch of chili flakes for an optional kick. Simple, zesty, and packed with flavour.
Roast Sage Swede Cubes: Peel and dice swede into bite-sized cubes (or buy ready cubed), toss with olive oil, fresh sage leaves (or dried if needed), sea salt, and black pepper. Roast until golden and caramelized. The earthy sage pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the swede for a warming winter side.
The Nutritional Benefits of Winter Veg Recipes
These winter veg recipes are as nourishing as they are delicious. Seasonal vegetables provide essential nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants to support your health during the colder months. Roasting and steaming help retain their natural goodness while enhancing their flavours, making them comforting and satisfying. Adding herbs and spices like sage, paprika, and garlic brings extra warmth and depth to the dishes. Together, these simple recipes offer a great way to enjoy a balanced, wholesome diet while making the most of winter produce.
What do I need?
Here a few ideas for some new products you might need, or want! Look on Amazon for items such as chopping boards, kitchen knives, mixing bowls, baking trays, kitchen utensils, and other items which you might need. I may receive a small commission if you purchase through these links which helps towards the website hosting fees. Thank you.
Serving
Serve your vegetables with your main meals – or make a selection and just eat them as they are!
Storing
The cooked vegetables should be stored refrigerated and most will keep for up to three days. The parsnip crisps may lose their crunch but a quick reheat in the oven or air fryer should do the job.
Sharing
I hope you will take advantage of all the seasonal vegetables and add a few more to your daily meals.
As always, I love hearing about any recipes of mine you try, any ideas you adapt or suggestions you have for future recipes. Please share and tag me @LifeDietHealth or using #LifeDietHealth on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook or X.
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I hope to speak with you soon
Laurena x
