lee holmes

Here’s a healthy version of a comfort food favourite. You don’t even need to make a fish stock for this wonderful dish — the aromatics and anchovies add a great depth of flavour. Even if you don’t like anchovies, use them. The dish doesn’t taste like anchovies at all!

Tip: This keeps for two weeks in the fridge, if it lasts that long! Or pop it in the freezer.

My tortillas are a comfort hit with the whole family and can be customised and adjusted to appropriate spice levels. And for our plant-based friends, we haven’t forgotten about you — just swap out the fish with grilled tempeh, which is equally delicious. Each bite of these “get your groove back tortillas” delivers about 28 grams of protein and a healthy dose of omega-3s. Plus, it’s a good source of antioxidants, too.

This timeless dessert celebrates the natural sweetness of fresh berries, paired with a wholesome, buttery crumble topping. Indulge with this gluten-free (and dairy-free if you choose) recipe.

Lentils are a great pantry staple. What people really find out when they discover lentils is just how versatile and filling they are, with no empty carbs. When done correctly, they give soup a creamy texture, subtle flavour and substance. Lentils are nutrient-dense and rich in plant-based protein. Getting protein from a variety of sources is critical in maintaining overall health.

Adobo is often considered the national dish of the Philippines, and this healthier version maintains all the bold notes while reducing calories. By using skinless chicken breast and replacing traditional rice with cauliflower rice, I have created a lighter dish that’s still incredibly satisfying. The chicken is cooked in a tangy, savoury sauce made with apple-cider vinegar, wheat-free tamari and garlic — hallmark flavours of Filipino cuisine.

Buko Pandan is a beloved Filipino dessert that combines the refreshing flavours of young coconut (buko) and pandan leaves. This lighter version reduces the sugar content and incorporates chia seeds for added nutrition. The result is a creamy, fragrant dessert that’s perfect for warm days or as a light end to a meal. The green colour from the pandan gives it a vibrant appearance, while the coconut provides a tropical twist. This dessert is not only delicious but also offers some nutritional benefits from the coconut and chia seeds.

Sinigang na Isda is a classic Filipino soup that perfectly embodies the cuisine’s love for sour flavours. This lighter version uses fish instead of meat, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste. The soup is packed with vegetables like okra, eggplant and water spinach, providing a variety of nutrients. The sour broth, typically made with tamarind, is not only delicious but also aids in digestion. This comforting soup is perfect for cooler days and is a great way to introduce yourself to Filipino cuisine.

The creamy, herb-infused whipped ricotta provides a luxurious base, while the maple-roasted radishes add a unique sweet and peppery element. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetiser or light lunch. The contrasting textures of the crisp rice cake, smooth ricotta, and tender roasted radishes create an interesting and satisfying bite that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

An innovative stuffed zucchini dish that brings together protein rich turkey, nutritious quinoa, and the unexpected sweetness of dried blueberries for a truly unique flavour profile. The combination of aromatic spices adds depth to the filling, while the zucchini boats provide a low-carb vessel that’s both delicious and visually appealing. This recipe offers a balanced meal with protein, complex carbohydrates and vegetables all in one, making it perfect for a satisfying dinner or lunch option.

My vibrant and flavourful pasta is a perfect blend of comfort and Blue Zone ingredients. Combining the sweetness of roasted red capsicum with the umami richness of nutritional yeast, this dish offers a creamy, dairy-free alternative to traditional pasta sauces. The use of spelt or rice pasta makes it suitable for those avoiding gluten, while the addition of coconut milk lends a subtle tropical note. This versatile recipe is vegan and gluten-free.

Crisp asparagus fries are generously coated in a savoury parmesan crust, offering a symphony of flavours with each satisfying crunch.