Listen, friends, let’s talk about food. Not just any food, but the kind that can change your day for the better. The meals and snacks we choose don’t just affect how we feel physically—light and energized or sluggish and tired—but they also play a massive role in our mental well-being. Nutritionists Tamara Green and Sarah Grossman, the dynamic duo behind the cookbook Good Food, Good Mood, say it all starts with what we eat. "The nutrients we consume have a profound impact on every part of our body," they explain. "And this influence directly affects our thoughts, our emotions, our energy levels, and truly, our overall mental health." So, the next time you’re feeling down, consider reaching for something that’s not just tasty but also packed with mood-boosting goodness.
That’s why Tamara and Sarah have crafted a cookbook filled with recipes designed to lift your spirits and brighten your day. Whether you're looking to recharge after a long day or simply want to add a little joy to your mealtime, these dishes are here to help. Why not give one a try tonight? Trust me, your mind and body will thank you.
Crunchy Chickpeas and Cauliflower: A Veggie Delight
Serves: 2
Read also:Dylan Walshs Exciting New Role After Blue Bloods Cancellation
Here’s a recipe that’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-good for you. This dish combines the hearty crunch of roasted chickpeas with tender, golden cauliflower, all tossed in a blend of spices and finished with a creamy yogurt sauce. It’s the perfect meal to perk you up when you’re feeling a little low. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 small cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sumac
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- 3/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon tahini
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the chickpeas and cauliflower florets on the sheet and toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon of sumac, balsamic vinegar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of pepper. Spread them out evenly.
2. Roast the veggies in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chickpeas are crispy and the cauliflower is golden brown and perfectly tender.
3. While the veggies are roasting, prepare the yogurt sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, tahini, 1/4 teaspoon of sumac, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and a dash of pepper.
4. Once the chickpeas and cauliflower are done, spread the yogurt sauce on a serving platter or plate. Top it with the roasted veggies. Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you’re feeling fancy. Serve it up and enjoy!
Nutritional Info per Serving: 484 calories, 19 grams protein, 56 grams carbs, 12 grams fiber, 4 grams sugar, 22 grams fat.
Garam Masala Beef Keftas: A Flavorful Feast
Serves: 4
If you’re a fan of bold, aromatic flavors, these Garam Masala Beef Keftas are a must-try. They’re packed with spices that not only tantalize your taste buds but also bring warmth and comfort to your soul. Plus, they’re super easy to make, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Read also:George Clooney Talks Broadway Family Life In Nyc And Balancing It All
Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup chopped raw walnuts
- 3 tablespoons raisins
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1 teaspoon garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, for garnish
- 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds, for garnish
Directions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg. Add the walnuts, raisins, ground beef, parsley, garam masala, cinnamon, cumin, sea salt, and a pinch of pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Form the mixture into football-shaped keftas, about 3 tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the keftas for 20 minutes, then flip them and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 160°F.
5. To serve, drizzle the keftas with Greek yogurt and sprinkle with fresh parsley and pomegranate seeds. For an extra touch, drizzle some tahini sauce over the top.
*To make the tahini sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of tahini, 1 1/2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of cold water, and a pinch of sea salt.
Nutritional Info per Serving: 369 calories, 32 grams protein, 18 grams carbs, 3 grams fiber, 9 grams sugar, 20 grams fat.
