As we navigate the world of health, wellness, and vibrant living, one thing is clear: what we put into our bodies matters. Eating a balanced diet that nourishes our minds, bodies, and souls can be overwhelming at times, but fear not! Deliciously Ella has got you covered with an array of wholesome recipes that are not only mouthwatering, but also packed with nutrients to fuel your daily life.
In this article, we’ll dive into 18 scrumptious recipes that will satisfy your cravings while keeping your taste buds and body in harmony. From hearty bowls and salads to decadent treats and indulgent smoothies, each dish is carefully crafted to tantalize your senses and nourish your being. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just starting your wellness journey, these recipes are sure to delight and inspire.
Let’s get started!
Sweet Potato and Lentil Dahl
This hearty and comforting dahl recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the creamy texture of lentils, all wrapped up in a flavorful Indian-inspired broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and curry powder. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the sweet potatoes, lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes and lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quinoa and Roasted Vegetable Salad
This hearty quinoa salad is a perfect blend of nutty grains, roasted vegetables, and fresh herbs. It’s an ideal side dish or light lunch for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. Toss bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast vegetables in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Fluff cooked quinoa and mix with roasted vegetables.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy mousse made with the unexpected star of the show: avocados! This recipe combines the velvety texture of ripe avocados with the decadent flavor of dark chocolate, resulting in a healthier-than-usual treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados and place them in a blender or food processor.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Add the honey or maple syrup, salt, and melted chocolate to the blender with the avocado.
4. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or whole milk.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including melting chocolate)
Turmeric and Ginger Immunity Soup
Boost your immune system with this nourishing and flavorful soup, packed with the potent antioxidants of turmeric and ginger.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in turmeric and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup to desired consistency.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Banana and Almond Butter Smoothie
Get a boost of creamy goodness with this simple and delicious banana and almond butter smoothie recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tsp honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, almond butter, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy no-cook recipe.
Spicy Black Bean Tacos
Spicy Black Bean Tacos: A flavorful twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the spicy kick of chipotle peppers with the comfort of black beans and crispy taco shells.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add black beans; stir to combine with the spice mixture.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
8. Fill tacos with the spicy black bean mixture and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beetroot and Walnut Hummus
Elevate your snack game with this vibrant and flavorful hummus recipe, infused with the earthy sweetness of beetroot and the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 medium beetroot, peeled and cooked
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or sumac for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine the chickpeas, beetroot, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with paprika or sumac, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Carrot and Chickpea Falafel
Add a twist to traditional falafel with the sweet and savory flavors of carrots and chickpeas! These crispy, flavorful patties are perfect for snacking or serving in a pita.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add grated carrots, flour, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties.
5. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the patties and gently toss to coat.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut and Chia Pudding
Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that’s packed with fiber, protein, and healthy fats. This creamy coconut chia pudding is a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together coconut milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until chia seeds are fully coated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Give the pudding a good stir before serving. You can top it with your favorite fruits, nuts, or shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Spinach and Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian dish combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with Arborio rice and a rich vegetable broth, creating a creamy and satisfying meal. With minimal preparation time, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup white wine (for added depth of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously, until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in cooked spinach, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon and Blueberry Oatmeal
Brighten up your morning with a delicious and refreshing bowl of lemon and blueberry oatmeal. This recipe combines the comforting warmth of oats with the zesty brightness of lemon and the sweetness of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Pinch of lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer.
2. Add the oats, lemon juice, honey, and salt. Stir until well combined.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired consistency.
4. Fold in the blueberries and stir gently to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a pinch of lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Avocado and Lime Cheesecake
This creamy cheesecake combines the richness of avocados with the brightness of lime, creating a unique and delicious dessert perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 avocado, mashed
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
4. In a large bowl, combine mashed avocado, cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, lime juice, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Cauliflower and Tahini Bowl
Roasted Cauliflower and Tahini Bowl Recipe
Roasting cauliflower brings out its natural sweetness, which pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of tahini sauce. This flavorful bowl is a healthy and satisfying meal for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
3. In a blender, combine tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon water. Blend until smooth.
4. To assemble the bowl, place roasted cauliflower on a plate, then top with tahini sauce, chopped parsley, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter and Cacao Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these no-bake bites, packed with the goodness of peanut butter, cacao, and oats. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cacao)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and cacao powder. Mix until well combined.
2. Add honey and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in chopped dark chocolate chips.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 energy balls.
5. Place the energy balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Peanut Butter and Cacao Energy Balls!
Tomato and Basil Lentil Pasta
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the freshness of tomatoes and basil, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. lentil pasta
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lentil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and cook for 30 seconds.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy goodness of sage. Perfect for a cozy fall evening, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and chopped
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, pumpkin, sage, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Purée the soup with an immersion blender or transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Berry and Almond Breakfast Bars
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast bar packed with fresh berries and crunchy almonds. These no-bake bars are perfect for on-the-go mornings or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, mixed berries, and chopped almonds.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together honey, maple syrup, and coconut oil until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until everything is coated.
4. Press the mixture into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Kale and Sweet Potato Hash
Get ready to start your day off right with this nutritious and flavorful breakfast hash! Combining the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes, the slight bitterness of kale, and a hint of spice, this recipe is a perfect blend of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 bunch of curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Combine roasted sweet potatoes with the kale mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Delve into the world of wholesome and delicious food with Deliciously Ella’s latest recipe collection! Featuring 18 mouth-watering dishes that promote vibrant living, this article showcases a variety of healthy and tasty meals. From hearty soups like Turmeric and Ginger Immunity Soup to sweet treats like Chocolate Avocado Mousse, there’s something for everyone. With ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, quinoa, and chia seeds, these recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re a foodie or a health enthusiast, get ready to indulge in the best of wholesome eating!
