lee holmes

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.

A hearty and nutritious quiche is the perfect way to welcome the autumn season. Packed with seasonal vegetables and encased in a wholesome crust, the combination of roasted butternut pumpkin, kale and caramelised onions provides depth, while the eggs and Greek yoghurt create a creamy, protein-rich filling. This quiche is not only a satisfying meal, it’s also a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

This rustic and elegant galette combines pumpkin and sage in a delicate, gluten-free crust. Perfect for autumn, this free-form tart is both visually appealing and delicious. The absence of yeast makes this pastry quick to prepare, while the use of gluten-free flour ensures it’s suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. The combination of sweet pumpkin and aromatic sage creates a sophisticated flavour profile that’s sure to impress at any gathering, or as a special family meal. The free-form nature of a galette makes it forgiving and rustic, perfect for those who might be intimidated by traditional pies or tarts. The combination of pumpkin and sage gives it a decidedly autumnal feel, making it ideal for seasonal gatherings or holiday meals.

These adorable puff pastry squares are topped with a medley of seasonal vegetables, creating a breakfast that’s as nutritious as it is delightful to look at. The combination of butternut pumpkin, asparagus, zucchini and red capsicum offers a variety of textures and flavours, while the touch of rosemary adds an aromatic element. These tarts are perfect for a weekend brunch or a grab-and-go breakfast option.

These bites are a creative and refreshing take on the traditional smoothie. By freezing the smoothie mixture into bite-sized portions, you create a convenient and playful snack that’s perfect as a quick energy boost

This pudding is a delightful way to start your day or enjoy as a healthy dessert. The chia seeds, when soaked overnight in coconut milk, create a creamy, pudding-like texture that’s both satisfying and nutritious. The tropical sweetness of passionfruit combined with the juicy freshness of peach creates a perfect balance of flavours. Topped with crunchy Brazil nuts, this pudding.

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.