These three January recipes are perfect for starting the new year because they focus on fresh, wholesome ingredients and are simple to prepare, making them a great fit for the season!

1. Quinoa & Kale Salad with Lemon-Tahini Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/4 cup roasted chickpeas (optional, for crunch)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp tahini
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp water (to thin the dressing)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine quinoa, kale, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and roasted chickpeas.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, tahini, garlic, water, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow flavours to meld.

2. Spiced Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed.
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced.
• 2 carrots, diced.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice and garnish with parsley before serving.

3. Berry Chia Pudding

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix chia seeds, almond milk, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to combine.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping.
3. Before serving, layer the chia pudding with berries in a glass or bowl.
4. Top with extra berries or nuts for crunch and enjoy!

These recipes are packed with nutrients and flavour to keep you energized and satisfied in the new year!