What to cook, 7 January 2019

Dear Readers:

I hope you are not too disappointed. I did promise to publish a what to cook this weekend on Friday (in fact it was one of my New Year resolutions) but the distractions of life got in the way, as they are sometimes wont to do. Really, it was a bit ambitious of me to think I would have a few moments of peace to work on my blog with both kids at home full time for the holidays. So please do accept my apology and know that I am doing my best, as we all are. I hope these warming dishes, with all their vibrant colours and flavours, will be just the thing to help to spice up your cold, grey January days!

Spaghetti with roasted red pepper and goat’s cheese pesto

Vibrant red peppers and creamy goats cheese make this pasta dish the ultimate easy dinner. If you’re short on time you can use pre-prepared roasted red peppers from a jar. Top with a poached egg for a hearty meal. And even if you’re dairy free – good news! Here is a delicious vegan goats cheese replacement by Dana McIntyre just for you!

BBC Goodfood’s vegan shepherd’s pie

By: John Torode

Hearty, warming and full of veg, but low on fat and calories – this pie is the perfect weeknight dinner to stave off that bleak, post-Christmas January feeling. Spiced with smoked paprika and full of herbs you won’t even notice that you’re eating healthy!

Delicious Magazine’s spaghetti with kale pesto and pangratatto topping

Who else loves kale? Its bright green colour and slightly bitter flavour is so appealing during those dark, winter days and the crunch of pangratatto on Delicious Magazine’s pesto elevates this dish to a new level. Feel free to use a vegan alternative to the parmesan if that’s your thing!

Winter Squash and Portobello mushroom curry

This vegetarian curry is so bright, warming and full of texture that even the most steadfast of carnivores won’t miss the meat! It tastes even better the next day so make a big batch and eat it throughout the week!

Deliciously Ella’s loaded Mexican style potato skins

These delicious potato skins are so flavourful and filling and the cashew sour cream really is very clever for anyone who is dairy free! A sweet potato version is also available on Ella’s app. Check it out on iTunes!

Everly’s vegetarian take on Jamie Oliver’s simple baked lasagne

Jamie’s simple baked lasagne is one of my favourite recipes ever. It’s so comforting and delicious. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly winter evening. Try this meat free version which is just as comforting, but would be a perfect bake for meat free Monday. Click here for Jamie’s original version!

If you’re looking for ways to cut down (or eliminate!) dairy this January, have a read of Buzzfeed.com’s 11 helpful tips for anyone who wants to eat less dairy by Gyan Yankovich. I, for one, will be trying the recipe for dairy free ice cream made with avocado and honey!

Finally, I recommend having a read of the Delicious Magazine article 10 no-nonsense tips to cut down on food waste for some great ways to eat “root to fruit”! As I always say, “when life hands you lemons, preserve them!”

Have a great week!

Everly Jaymes

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