Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing, crunchy dish that’s simple to prepare yet packed with flavour and nutrition. Originating from northern China, this salad involves lightly smashing cucumbers before marinating them in a special dressing. The smashing technique enables the cucumbers to better absorb the dressing, resulting in a dish that is tangy, cooling, and full of texture.

Cucumbers are naturally hydrating, low in calories, and rich in antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. Their high water and fibre content support digestion and help with feelings of fullness, which can aid in maintaining a healthy weight. A healthy weight is one of the most important factors in managing and preventing fatty liver disease, a growing health concern worldwide. By swapping processed snacks for nutrient-dense dishes like this cucumber salad, you can support liver health while enjoying something delicious.

This salad is also versatile: it pairs well with grilled fish, lean proteins, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. The sesame oil provides healthy fats, while garlic adds not only flavour but also natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick to prepare and full of vibrant flavour, Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad is the perfect example of how traditional recipes can support modern health goals. Members of Eat Burn Sleep can also access the Fatty Liver Disease Personalized Advice, offering tailored guidance for long-term liver health.

Guacamole is one of the most popular dips worldwide, but not everyone enjoys the bold, soapy taste of cilantro. This No-Cilantro Guacamole recipe is designed for those who want all the creaminess, freshness, and tang of traditional guacamole, without the overpowering herb.

Instead of relying on cilantro for flavor, this version highlights the smooth texture of ripe avocados balanced with zesty lime and a touch of freshness from simple, complementary additions. The result is a creamy dip that’s light, refreshing, and universally loved, even by those who usually shy away from guacamole.

It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and works just as well for entertaining as it does for a quick snack or side. Whether served at a party, added to a family dinner, or enjoyed as a healthier alternative to store-bought dips, No-Cilantro Guacamole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

For those who do enjoy cilantro’s distinctive flavor, we also have Yalda’s Guacamole recipe, which follows a more traditional approach. Having both options means everyone can enjoy guacamole the way they like it best.

Packed with nourishing benefits from naturally wholesome ingredients, this recipe is as good for you as it is delicious. Easy, adaptable, and full of flavor, No-Cilantro Guacamole proves that you don’t need cilantro to enjoy the perfect dip.

This Romano Red Pepper Sauce is a flavour-packed, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional tomato-based sauces. Naturally dairy-free and gluten-free, it’s perfect for anyone following a plant-based or anti-inflammatory lifestyle, or for those simply looking to avoid common allergens and irritants.

What sets this sauce apart is its bold, savoury-sweet flavour, created by gently shallow frying Romano red peppers, French shallots, and garlic to bring out their natural sweetness and depth. The result is a smooth, vibrant sauce that’s as versatile as it is nourishing.

This recipe contains no tomatoes, making it an ideal solution for those with tomato sensitivities or anyone looking to switch things up from typical red sauces. It works beautifully as a dip, spread, or even as a sauce over vegetables, fish, or eggs.

Because it’s free from dairy, gluten, and refined sugars, this sauce supports gut health and inflammation management, making it a smart and delicious choice for those prioritizing whole foods and balanced living. It’s also quick to prepare, fridge-friendly, and easy to batch-make for the week ahead.

Whether you’re looking for a tomato-free sauce, a vibrant anti-inflammatory snack, or a new go-to dip that fits seamlessly into your routine, this Romano Red Pepper Sauce ticks all the boxes. Rich in flavour, easy to digest, and completely free of unnecessary additives, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

This Italian Vegetable Stir Fry is the perfect recipe to bring Mediterranean flavors to your table in under 30 minutes. Packed with colorful, nutrient-rich veggies and seasoned with classic Italian herbs and spices, this dish is as versatile as it is satisfying.

This stir fry features a vibrant mix of zucchini, bell peppers, leeks, and mushrooms—lightly sautéed in olive oil to preserve their natural textures and flavors. Seasoned with garlic, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper, each bite bursts with a savory, aromatic depth that’s elevated with a final touch of freshly chopped basil.

Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan diet, looking for a low-carb meal, or simply trying to eat more plant-based, this Italian vegetable stir fry fits perfectly into any lifestyle. Serve it as a main course with a side of quinoa, couscous, or pasta, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty dinner.

Not only is this dish easy to make, but it’s also ideal for meal prep and leftovers. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it hot or cold the next day!

Za’atar Charred Broccoli is a delicious and healthy dish that combines the bold flavors of Middle Eastern spices with the natural goodness of roasted broccoli. This simple yet flavorful recipe uses za’atar seasoning, a blend of thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and other spices, to elevate the taste of the broccoli while providing numerous health benefits.

Broccoli is known for its high nutritional value, being rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, support detoxification, and promote gut health. Za’atar seasoning, with its mix of antioxidants from thyme and sumac, also brings additional anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The sesame seeds in the za’atar provide healthy fats that support brain function and skin health.

To make this Za’atar Charred Broccoli, simply toss fresh broccoli florets with olive oil and the za’atar seasoning. Roast them in the oven until charred to perfection, and enjoy the crispy, savory flavors. The charring process not only enhances the taste but also helps to release the beneficial compounds in the broccoli, making it even more nutritious.

This recipe is perfect as a side dish for a variety of meals or even as a light snack. It’s gluten-free, plant-based, and suitable for those following an anti-inflammatory diet. The bold flavors of the za’atar seasoning complement the earthy taste of broccoli, making this dish both healthy and satisfying.

With its nutrient-rich ingredients and simple preparation, Za’atar Charred Broccoli is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add more plant-based, anti-inflammatory meals to their diet.

This roasted butternut squash and sweet potato recipe is a delicious, nutrient-packed dish that makes the perfect healthy side or meal prep option. Loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, these roasted root vegetables are not only comforting but also offer a great source of slow-digesting carbohydrates, making them ideal for balanced energy levels throughout the day.

Both butternut squash and sweet potatoes are naturally rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A—essential for immune function, skin repair, and eye health. They’re also high in dietary fiber, which supports smooth digestion and nourishes a healthy gut microbiome. Unlike refined carbohydrates, these wholesome root veggies offer sustained energy without the blood sugar rollercoaster, making them a nourishing base or complement to a well-rounded meal.

The seasoning blend brings this dish to life with warming spices like paprika and cumin seeds, paired with garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper for depth and balance. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Roasting the vegetables in a drizzle of olive oil helps achieve a beautifully caramelized exterior while providing a dose of healthy fats that support heart health and aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. The result is a naturally sweet, savory, and deeply satisfying dish that fits seamlessly into a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory lifestyle. Whether served fresh out of the oven or enjoyed as part of your weekly meal prep, this Roasted Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato recipe is a vibrant and wholesome addition to your seasonal cooking.

Combined with nutrient-rich ingredients like garlic, coconut aminos, and sesame oil, this Asian quinoa stir fry is not only delicious but also anti-inflammatory, supporting digestion and reducing bloating. Plus, it’s gluten-free, soy-free, and easy to digest, making it ideal for those with food sensitivities.

Quinoa is a complete plant-based protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids needed for muscle repair, energy production, and overall health. Unlike refined grains, quinoa is also a complex carbohydrate, providing slow-digesting energy that keeps you full longer and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

This makes it an excellent alternative to traditional white rice or noodles, especially for those looking to support muscle recovery, weight management, or a healthy gut.

This Mackerel and Beetroot Salad is a perfect combination of omega-3-rich fish, antioxidant-loaded beets, and gut-friendly fiber, making it excellent for brain health, heart health, and reducing inflammation.

Mackerel is a nutrient-rich oily fish that offers several health benefits, primarily due to its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.​ Regular consumption of mackerel has been linked to improved heart health. A study (Singer et al. 1983) indicated that a diet including mackerel significantly reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, suggesting a beneficial influence on cardiovascular risk factors.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a nutritious side dish, this salad offers the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.

If you are looking for other lunchbox ideas like this Mackerel and Beetroot Salad, then check out our Rainbow Lunchbox and Prawns, Avocado, and Salad recipes.

This Spinach Curry packs superfoods like spinach, turmeric, and ginger, making it a perfect addition to your anti-inflammatory lifestyle. It’s not just delicious—it also loads you up with antioxidants that fight inflammation and keeps it gluten-free and dairy-free.

Spinach is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It strengthens your immune system, aids digestion, and promotes heart health. Additionally, it provides an excellent source of iron, which sustains your energy levels and helps prevent anemia.

Turmeric, known for its vibrant color and distinct flavor, has earned its place as a superfood. It contains a compound called curcumin, which delivers powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps reduce chronic inflammation, supports brain health, and helps you maintain a healthy weight. For years, people have used turmeric in traditional medicine as a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.

This dish is not only flavorful but also provides a wealth of health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients, asparagus is known to support heart health, improve digestion, and provide a rich source of antioxidants. Meanwhile, soft-boiled eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall bodily functions.

This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with dietary restrictions. Did you know you can make soft-boiled eggs in advance? They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Soft-boiled eggs with asparagus is the ideal dish for a nutritious and satisfying meal at any time of day. For breakfast, it provides a protein-packed start to your day, helping you stay energized and full. For brunch, it offers a light but satisfying option, especially when paired with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. For lunch, this dish makes a healthy, quick meal that keeps you feeling nourished without weighing you down. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a leisurely brunch, this dish fits seamlessly into any part of your day.

This creamy parsnip soup is a comforting, nutrient-dense dish that’s perfect for cozy nights and immune support.

Made with naturally sweet parsnips and a base of nourishing stock, it delivers a velvety texture and subtle earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with a touch of nutmeg.

Parsnips are rich in fiber, vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants, making this soup a smart choice for supporting digestion, reducing inflammation, and boosting immunity. Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan-friendly, this parsnip soup fits seamlessly into clean eating, anti-inflammatory, and seasonal whole food diets. Whether served as a light starter or hearty main, it’s a simple way to enjoy the comfort of soup with the power of plant-based nutrition.

Enjoy the powerful benefits of this nourishing Mushroom Medley with Parsley, designed to support an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.

Mushrooms are rich in essential nutrients like antioxidants, vitamin D, and B vitamins, helping to boost immunity, support gut health, and promote overall well-being. Paired with fresh parsley, which is packed with vitamins C and K and known for its natural detoxifying properties, this medley offers a delicious way to nourish the body from within. Lightly seasoned and drizzled with heart-healthy olive oil, this dish is easy to digest, full of flavor, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a simple, wholesome meal that supports vibrant health.

Research indicates that incorporating mushrooms into your diet can enhance antioxidant defenses, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative damage. (Kozarski et al, 2015)

Got any Mushroom Medley leftovers, then why not use them to make our Mushroom, Leek & Quinoa Stir Fry.