Top tips for creating the perfect salad

During the warm spring and summer months we look at salads as a delicious way of packing in the vegetables. However there’s a real difference between a salad that consists of some iceberg lettuce and a piece of tomato and a Health Boost salad. We use salads as a way of packing in lots of nutrients and making them nutrition powerhouses.

roasted summer veg and lentil salad

Roasted summer vegetables with puy lentils is such a delicious combination. I served with halloumi - but it’s equally as delicious with feta cheese. This is a great recipe if you are looking to use up some courgette from a glut. This salad can be served without the halloumi for a delicious side to a BBQ.

Red kidney bean and lentil salad bowl

Eating more pulses is such a great way to increase fibre in your diet. They also contain protein so this salad will easily keep you full until your next meal. We use Puy lentils for this recipe as they don’t require soaking and hold their shape well in salads. For ease you can buy ready cooked Puy lentils from Merchant Gourmet.

Greek style chickpea salad bowl

This Greek style salad bowl is a budget friendly crowd pleaser. It’s perfect made ahead for lunch boxes, taking to work etc… It’s also such a quick one to make and bring along to those summer BBQs to serve alongside grilled meats. Perfect balance of mediterranean flavours, healthy plants and fats.

Broccoli, quinoa and almond salad

This is a protein packed and liver-loving salad. The liver support is from the kale and broccoli which are members of the cruciferous family of vegetables. The protein comes from the quinoa, edamame beans, almonds and almond butter in the dressing. A fantastic post-workout salad to keep you satisfied.

Coconut & berry bliss balls

These raw healthy snacks were inspired by the arrival of all the gorgeous summer fruits. Raw, nut-free, vegan, naturally gluten free, light and fresh they are the perfect pick-me up, on-the-go refuel for the longer days, late outdoors training session or delayed never-ending cricket matches! They are pretty, do not need baking and set in the freezer quickly, so what's not to like!

What foods to eat for bone health

When people think of bone health - calcium is the first mineral that might spring to mind. However, there are more minerals that are needed for bone health than just calcium. Many trace minerals such as copper, manganese, zinc and boron are also important, as is vitamin K1 and vitamin D. Bone is a dynamic, living tissue that is constantly being broken down and rebuilt, even in adults. Not many people think about looking after their bones until they start to break down as in arthritis or osteoporosis. However, there is lots you can do to ward off oesteoporosis, which is where there is more bone breaking down than being formed.

5mins healthy rainbow salad bowl

This super quick rainbow salad contains 13 every day cupboard and fridge ingredients. It will sit perfectly alongside any summer barbecue spread as it is delicious with some grilled chicken skewers. Leftovers are perfect for lunch on Monday with tinned tuna!

We strongly believe and enjoy variety of ingredients in our diets. Variety is good for your gut and your taste buds!

Fruit and oat soft breakfast bars

This is the perfect no-bake fruit and oats snack bar. Full of natural goodness, no nasties, sugar only from the fruits and added benefits of pumpkin seeds. Make ahead in 15mins, sets in the fridge in an hour and keeps really well. Ideal for lunch box in nut free school environment. These are gluten free and really simple with a lovely citrus kick of orange perfect for breakfast on-the-go!

Cannellini beans, pea and mint dip

Healthy and quick to make dips are a great made ahead solution for a savoury snack, a lunch box or a BBQ spread. It takes 5 mins to make and keeps in the fridge for 2-3 days. That classic pea and mint combo is divine on toasted sourdough, or as a side with grilled chicken, salmon or grilled lamb chops.

Griddled asparagus on toasted sourdough

This plant-based bean and avocado salad is one you will adopt and make over and over again. Perfect as a lunch prepped ahead for a couple of days, where you can add a different source of extra protein (boiled egg, feta cheese, leftover roast chicken, poached salmon). It is also a fab salad to make to work alongside those summer BBQs we are all looking forward to!
Bonus, it’s super quick and made from everyday affordable ingredients!

Pineapple protein breakfast smoothie

Smoothies are often requested by our clients when we design personalised meal plans. In spring and summer they are a great breakfast option if put together properly and hit your micro and macro nutrients needs. This smoothie will give you very adequate protein for breakfast and also contains your first portion of veggie for the day! A double win. Who can resist the pineapple coconut combo?