It’s almost 2025, and bringing in a new year means parties, fireworks and ringing in the bells with your loved ones. But with New Year’s celebrations also comes New Year’s resolutions – a lot of which revolve around creating a healthier lifestyle after indulging over the festive period. To help you start the year off on the right foot, we’ve put together a list of healthy (yet delicious) meals. Because being healthy doesn’t need to be boring!
First up we have a delicious and vibrant Stir Fry that is quick, customisable and full of flavour.
Ingredients
2 cups of your favourite mixed fresh vegetables (Bell peppers, Broccoli, Peas etc)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
200g Chicken (or swap for prawns or tofu)
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
Zucchini noodles or cooked quinoa for serving
Instructions:
Heat sesame oil in a wok over a medium-high heat.
Add your chicken and cook until brown. Remove from the wok and set aside.
Toss in the vegetables and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender.
Pop your chicken back into the wok and add your soy sauce. Stir to combine.
Serve over zucchini noodles or quinoa for a lighter option.
This delicious and nutritious stir fry is a perfect mid-week meal to prepare and enjoy this New Year.
During the colder nights in January there is nothing better than a hearty, warming meal so next we have a delicious Chili recipe for you to try.
Ingredients
500g lean ground turkey mince
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
400g diced tomatoes
400g kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chilli powder
Greek yoghurt
Fresh coriander
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
Add the turkey mince and cook until browned.
Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans and spices and mix well.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve with a dollop of Greek yoghurt and garnish with coriander.
This filling and tasty meal can be enjoyed guilt free all winter long.
We also know that in the New Year, cravings can still creep in. That’s why this fake-away Chicken Chow Mein is the perfect alternative to ordering in.
Ingredients
200g whole-grain noodles
300g chicken breast, sliced thinly
2 cups mixed stir fry vegetables (carrots, bean sprouts etc)
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
1 tablespoon five-spice
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions
Cook the noodles according to their package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Heat sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until fully cooked.
Add the vegetables and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until tender.
Mix in the noodles, soy sauce, and five-spice powder. Toss to combine.
This super quick and simple fake-away recipe is the perfect way to curb your cravings and save money this new year!
If you are fancying an even lighter option, or you are looking for a delicious healthy lunch recipe, why not try this Creamy Chicken Caesar Salad.
Ingredients
Salad:
2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
1 grilled chicken breast, sliced
1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp shaved Parmesan cheese
Dressing:
2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 small garlic clove, finely minced or grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Whisk together Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, salt and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Grill until fully cooked, then slice thinly.
Arrange the lettuce in a bowl or plate. Top with grilled chicken slices, cherry tomatoes, Parmesan and croutons.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss lightly if desired.
Using Greek yoghurt for your dressing, allows you to lighten your meal by skipping heavy cream or mayonnaise while still enjoying a satisfying and delicious meal!
Lastly, we all still need a sweet treat to finish off a meal and even if you’re trying to make healthier options, everyone still needs dessert!
Ingredients
2 ripe bananas, sliced and frozen
1 tablespoon peanut butter
1 handful of fresh berries
Instructions
Place the frozen banana slices in a blender or food processor.
Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
Add the peanut butter and blend again.
Serve into bowls straight away as a soft-serve or freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer texture.
Top with fresh berries and more peanut butter.
This banana ice cream is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while continuing with your healthy eating goals.
With these quick, healthy, and tasty recipes you can start 2025 feeling your best. Here’s to a happy, healthy and delicious New Year!