gluten-free

Quinoa is one of the most popular ancient grains for good reason. It’s easy to cook, rich in plant-based protein and high in antioxidants including quercetin and kaempferol. This quinoa and pomegranate salad is the perfect accomplice for seafood or another protein. I like using garlic and ginger for an extra flavour punch in the marinade, but it’s equally delicious without it.

This was one of my very first recipes, created from a combination of a beetroot “risotto” in a cookbook and my favourite dish at a cafe. The sweet earthiness of the beetroot combines perfectly with the peppery rocket and salty feta. This dish is hearty enough to eat as a main dish but also makes a fabulous side, especially with lamb.

These naturally occurring plant compounds have a wide range of health benefits and help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.

This is such a beautiful dish to have in autumn. The leeks and onions become caramelised and sweeten up in the oven, adding a gorgeous depth to the salad.

Kidney beans are a great source of plant-based protein and they can assist in achieving a full and satisfied feeling after eating. Kidney beans can also help balance blood sugar levels.

I know basil is the go-to for pasta, but I love crisp, fresh parsley with cauliflower so I have chosen parsley for this dish. You can now buy fantastic gnocchi in many different flavours and cauliflower is becoming very popular. You can use any flavour of gnocchi with this sauce.

These wholesome wraps are full of delicious cream cheese and salmon. They have a hint of lemon, horseradish and capers, all topped with fresh, peppery rocket.

Orange fruits and vegetables such as mangoes contain beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. This important vitamin is needed to support healthy skin and immune function. Mangoes are also rich in zeaxanthin, an antioxidant that plays a protective role in eye health and helps reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

This light and lovely gluten-free cake is packed with good-quality protein to supply important amino acids to build and repair the body, make hormones and support lean muscle growth. Having protein with meals is important for maintaining a healthy weight by curbing hunger and sugar cravings and helping keep blood sugar levels balanced.

Spinach and other leafy greens contain good levels of iron, which has a positive effect on serotonin and dopamine levels to boost mood.

These delicious crepes are perfect for
a weekend breakfast or healthy dessert. Oats are a great source of resistant starch. This is a type of fermentable prebiotic fibre that provides fuel for the good bacteria in the gut and ensures the health and integrity of the gut lining. Berries, particularly dark berries like blackberries and blueberries, are an excellent source of anthocyanins. This potent antioxidant enhances immune function and can reduce inflammation and premature skin ageing.

Select organic fruits if they are available as all three of these fruits retain high levels of pesticides when grown conventionally. If there is no time or inclination to make the pastry, a premade store-bought pastry will work fine.