So 1 degree is apparently a thing we have to deal with in the mornings now. How is my memory of the seasons so short that each year I’m like, since when does it get this cold in Melbourne? And this weather has me turning my oven on as often as possible. Multi tasking heating is a great thing.
My current penchant for warming winter desserts and hearty oven baked things isn’t doing that summer bod I’m meant to be making in winter any good but maybe at 34 it’s time I just accept that I will always love dessert and pasta and stop worrying about it? It’d all be balanced if it wasn’t so cold that convincing myself to go for a run in the morning is impossible. I do also realise the 1 degree celsius is positively balmy in winter in some parts of the world but unfortunately our house isn’t built for this kind of weather so staying warm in an environmentally friendly way is a battle.
One way of staying warm is to not leave the house and cook lots. That’s what I’m suggesting you do this week so see below for plenty of yummy ideas you can eat while wrapped in blankets in the comfort of your own home with a hot teat/ red wine in tow. I’m back to at least 3 alcohol free days a week after a month of nightly wines to deal with a stressful situation (I do realise this isn’t the healthiest of coping mechanisms). But with said stressful situation done and dusted Imma start taking better care of myself again. Starting with less wine and more meals at home. Which also means I’m feeling more creative and have been coming up with loads of great ideas for you all again. I always forget how negatively stress, especially in your home, affects my creativity and drive. But I’m back, and here are your delicious meal plans. Let me know what you plan on making this week!
Plan A
Day 1: Vegetarian Makhani Curry, this curry is so simple to make and super delicious. You can make it as mild or spicy as you like.
Day 2: Brussel Sprout, Thyme and Crispy Skinned Duck Breast Risotto, a simple risotto topped with the most delightfully crispy skinned duck. Looks fancy but is actually super easy.
Day 3: Salmon and Mushroom Ramen with a Ponzu Broth, this is my dream meal. Light but warming and quick to make.
Day 4:Pumpkin and Spinach Skillet Lasagne with Basil Vinaigrette, one of my favourite winter warmers, if you cant get basil use a basil pesto as your base and add more lemon to thin it out.
Day 5: Baked Za’atar Spiced Chicken with Lentils and Sweet Potato. A one pan wonder to finsh off the week.
Plan B
Day 1: Pumpkin and Spinach Skillet Lasagne with Basil Vinaigrette, start the week right.
Day 2: Vegetarian Makhani Curry, this recipe makes 6 serves so is perfect for batch cooking or freezing.
Day 3: Cauliflower and Hummus Pita Pockets. Make sure you drizzle lots of tahini at the end for extra yum.
Day 4: Fragrant Dahl with Chickpeas Zucchini and Spinach. I’ve got a little chickpea obsessed this week…
Day 5: Chipotle Black Bean Nachos with Manchego and Grilled Poblano Peppers, how I like to Friday.
Of course the bonus this week is a classic winter dessert: Bread and Butter Pudding… without the butter and with loads of blueberry chia jam because there’s always an opportunity to make dessert a little better for you.
HH. x
