The Brunch Zone

Tag: easy recipe

Build-Your-Own Salad: Because Healthy Shouldn’t Be Boring ✨
Let’s be honest: too often, salads get labeled as “diet food,” something plain, leafy, and… boring. But that couldn’t be further from the truth! A salad can be crunchy, colorful, filling, and seriously fun to put together – especially when you think of it as a choose-your-own-adventure meal.

I’ve put together a Salad Builder Guide (see the image) so you can mix and match ingredients from each category. Think of it like a flavor playground:

🥬 Leafy greens – the base
- Spinach, kale, arugula, romaine, mixed greens…
  Go leafy, go hearty, or even try shredded cabbage for an extra crunch.
🥦 The Veggie Boost
- Cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, carrots, broccoli, zucchini ribbons…
  This is where the colors come in. The more colors on your plate, the more variety of nutrients you’re feeding your body.
🍗 The Protein Power
- Grilled chicken, chickpeas, tofu, boiled eggs, lentils, salmon…
  Because no one wants to be hungry an hour later. Protein means staying powered.
🥑 The healthy fats
- Avocado, nuts, olives, cheese…
  These add healthy fats and a velvety texture that makes your salad feel luxurious.
🍠 The carbs
- Potatoes, brown rice, quinoa…
  These carbs help you to keep energy along the day.
🍎 Something fun
- Apple slices, strawberries, blueberries, tortilla chips, nuts, corn…
  That satisfying bite? This is where you get it. Add something fun and unexpected to your salad, it will definitely change the game!
🥣 The Dressing
- Olive oil & lemon, tahini drizzle, balsamic vinaigrette, Greek yogurt ranch…
  Light, zesty, or creamy—it ties everything together.
👉 The Rule: Choose one (or more!) from each category, toss them together, and voilà—your custom, nutrient-packed, flavor-bursting salad is ready.

💡 Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Salads aren’t a punishment, they’re an opportunity to play with your food in the healthiest way possible.
Find here some of my favorite salad recipes

1. A classic Greek salad: fresh, simple, and full of flavor 🇬🇷

Sometimes, the best recipes are the ones that keep it simple. A Greek salad—also called horiatiki—is the perfect example. No fancy techniques, no heavy dressings, just fresh ingredients tossed together. It’s crisp, tangy, and makes you feel like you’re sitting by the sea in Greece. 🌊✨
🥒 What You’ll Need (serves 2–3)

Pinch of sea salt & black pepper

3 medium ripe tomatoes, cut into wedges

1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons

1 green bell pepper, sliced thin

½ red onion, thinly sliced

A handful of Kalamata olives

A block (yes, a block!) of feta cheese

2–3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried oregano
🌟 Why It Works
- Fresh & crisp: The veggies are raw and vibrant.
- Balanced flavors: Sweet tomatoes, briny olives, salty feta, and peppery olive oil.
- So easy: 10 minutes from start to finish, no cooking required
2. A healthier Caesar Salad: creamy, crunchy, and guilt-free 🥗

The Caesar salad is a classic—creamy dressing, crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and salty Parmesan. But let’s be real: the traditional version can be a bit heavy. The good news? You can still enjoy all the flavor you love with a lighter, healthier twist. This version skips the excess without losing any of the yum factor.

🥬 What You’ll Need (serves 2–3)

For the salad:
- 2 hearts of romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup whole-grain or sourdough croutons (homemade if you can!)
- ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan
- Choose your protein: grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas
- 1 boiled egg
For the healthier Caesar dressing:
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (instead of mayo)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Pinch of salt & pepper
🌟 Why It Works
- Greek yogurt base: Creamy texture + extra protein, less saturated fat.
- Olive oil & lemon: Heart-healthy fats and fresh flavor.
- Whole-grain croutons: More fiber, more crunch, more staying power.
- Customizable protein: Keep it light with chickpeas or satisfying with grilled chicken.
3. Fresh & Fruity Salads 🍓

Salads don’t always have to be leafy or savory—sometimes, the star of the show is fruit. Sweet, juicy, colorful, and refreshing, fruity salads are perfect for summer lunches, brunch tables, or even a light dessert. The best part? They’re endlessly customizable—you can mix and match based on what’s in season or what you’re craving.

🌟 Why It Works
- Naturally sweet → No refined sugar needed.
- Nutrient-packed → Vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber in every bite.
- Versatile → Breakfast, side dish, or dessert.
Final thoughts

At the end of the day, salads don’t have to be boring. They’re one of the most versatile and colorful meals you can make. Next time you’re in the kitchen, think of your bowl as a canvas and let your creativity take over. Mix, match, crunch, drizzle… and most importantly, have fun with it. Your healthiest, tastiest salad is just a few choices away! 🌈 Let me know your favorite combination!
August 23, 2025

easy recipe, food, healthy, recipe, Recipes, salad, salads, veggies
Delicious Chicken Curry Recipe with Vegan Options
Whether you’re craving a rich, aromatic chicken curry or seeking a plant-based alternative, this chicken curry recipe will hit the spot! It’s packed with veggies and has creamy sauce, and I’ve included vegan variations to cater to everyone. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Chicken Curry:
- For the Curry Base:
  - 500g chicken breast
  - 400 ml coconut milk ( or cream to a richer version)
  - lots of vegetables: broccoli, onion, carrot, pepper, peas
  - 1 tbsp of ginger, grated
  - 1 tbsp curry
  - 1 tbsp coriander
  - ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
  - salt, pepper
  - coconut oil / olive oil
Instructions for Chicken Curry:
1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by chopping the chicken into small chunks, then the veggies into small pieces.
2. Cook the Chicken (or Vegan Alternative): Add the chicken pieces to the pot, stirring to coat them with the spices. Season with the spices: salt, pepper, curry powder, chili and coriander, then cook for 6-7 minutes, until the chicken is browned on all sides. If you’re making the vegan version, add your protein choice (tofu, chickpeas, or tempeh) and stir gently.
3. Add the coconut milk and chicken broth to the pan.
4. Add the chopped vegetables to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Once the curry is simmering, cover the pan and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the chicken (or tofu) to cook through. If using tofu or chickpeas, a shorter cooking time of 10-15 minutes will suffice.
6. Taste check: add more the spice if needed: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and more curry powder or chili. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
7. Garnish & Serve: Remove the curry from the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with steamed rice or naan bread for a complete meal.
Vegan Variations:

If you’re opting for a vegan version of this curry, the good news is that there are many ways to replace chicken while keeping all the flavor! Here are some great alternatives:
1. Tofu: Firm tofu works best in this recipe. Press the tofu to remove excess water, cut it into cubes, and either sauté it in a bit of oil until crispy or add it directly to the curry. It will soak up all the flavors and become beautifully soft in the curry.
2. Chickpeas: A can of drained and rinsed chickpeas can be added in place of chicken. They add texture and a great protein punch to the curry. Let them simmer in the sauce for a rich, earthy flavor.
3. Tempeh: Tempeh is another wonderful protein option that works great in curry.
Serving Suggestions:

This curry pairs wonderfully with:
- Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy rice absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Naan Bread: Perfect for scooping up curry sauce.
This chicken curry recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on dietary preferences. Whether you’re a meat eater or vegan, there’s a version for everyone, and the flavors are nothing short of comforting. Serve it up for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or when you’re hosting guests — it’s sure to impress!

Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this curry, and feel free to experiment with different proteins and spices to make it your own.
February 10, 2025

chicken, curry, dinner, easy recipe, food, one pot, recipe, Recipes, veggies
Pumpkin spice & everything nice: fall’s coziest pumpkin recipes to try
End of fall — when sweaters are cozy, the air is crisp, and pumpkins mysteriously start appearing everywhere. It’s that magical time of year when I think that pumpkin should be in everything. From sweet to savory, breakfast to dessert, there are endless creative (or slightly obsessive) pumpkin recipes. They are all just waiting to make your fall a little tastier.

There’s something magical about cooking with pumpkin that always takes me back to cozy autumn days. I remember the first time I experimented with pumpkin—it was a chilly weekend, and I decided to try making something with pumpkin from scratch. The warm, spiced aroma filled the kitchen, and I just couldn’t resist to eat the simple, baked pumpkin. It always takes me back to childhood memories. What I love most is how pumpkin adds a rich, comforting flavor while keeping recipes wholesome. Whether it’s a creamy oatmeal or a protein-packed treat, pumpkin recipes always feel like a hug in a bowl.

In this post, we’re exploring a collection of pumpkin-based recipes. They are guaranteed to wrap you in a warm, cinnamony hug of autumnal coziness. Whether you’re a pumpkin spice super-fan or just here for the cookies, there’s something for everyone. So grab your coziest blanket, a mug of something warm, and prepare to pumpkin-up your kitchen in just a few minutes. These recipes don’t need more than 30 minutes, you can simply prepare them the day before.

Pumpkin pancakes

Start your day with these fluffy, protein-rich pumpkin pancakes that are as nutritious as they are delicious. With simple ingredients and a quick prep time, these pancakes bring together the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice and the satisfaction of a high-protein meal. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch, they’re a heavenly treat you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients

1 mashed banana

2 scoops vanilla protein powder

1/2 cup pumpkin puree

1 egg

1/2 cup all purpose flour

1 pinch cinnamon ( or pumpkin spice mix)

1 tsp baking powder

coconut oil for cooking

Toppings for serving:

greek yogurt with maple syrup and cinnamon

pumpkin seeds
1. Add the ingredients to a mixing bowl and stir to combine until smooth.
2. Heat a skillet to medium and add the coconut oil to heat up.
3. Cook the pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side. They’re the best when lightly browned, not dark.
4. While the pancakes cook, stir the yogurt with the cinnamon and maple syrup to make the topping.
5. Place the pancakes on a plate and top with the yogurt mixture and pumpkin seeds.
6. Enjoy!
Cozy Pumpkin Oatmeal

Warm up your mornings with this creamy, spiced pumpkin oatmeal—a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. Packed with the rich flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, this wholesome bowl is a fall-inspired delight that’s perfect year-round. Quick to make and naturally sweetened, it’s a nourishing way to start your day on a delicious note!
Ingredients

1/4 – 1/2 cup oatmeal

1/4 cup pumpkin puree

pumpkin spice mix (cinnamon, nutmeg)

1/4 – 1/4 cup milk (almond, coconut, regular)

1 tbsp chia seeds

1/4 cup nuts (almond, walnuts, pecan)

1-2 scoops vanilla protein powder

optional: greek yogurt
Pumpkin is a versatile, nutrient-packed ingredient that adds rich flavor, vibrant color, and a dose of healthy goodness to any recipe. Whether you’re enjoying it in breakfast, snacks, soups or desserts, it’s the perfect way to balance indulgence with nourishment. What are your favorite pumpkin recipes or creative ways to use this fall favorite? Share your ideas or let me know which recipe you’d like to try next—I’d love to hear from you!
November 15, 2024

Breakfast, easy recipe, food, pumpkin, recipe, Recipes, vegeterian
Crispy smashed potatoes
Who said potatoes are boring? This basic food can be prepared a thousand ways, and it never gets old. My new favorite is these perfectly crispy ones with a super easy greek yoghurt dip. Who can resist this?
- Prep time: 10 mins
- Bake time: 1hr 10 min
Ingredients

Smashed potatoes:
- 1kg small potatoes
- 3 tbsp melted salted butter
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tbsp pepper
- 1 tbsp dried basil
- freshly chopped parsley
Greek yogurt dip:
- 3 cups greek yogurt
- 3 tbsp freshly chopped parsley
- 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp olive oil
How to make the smashed potatoes:
1. Wash the potatoes and place them in a large pot filled with water. Try to use small potatoes to make it easy to smash them with a help of a glass. Boil for ~20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft.
2. Once soft enough, drain the water and let the potatoes rest for about 5 minutes.
3. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet, then smash them pressing on pressing each one with the bottom of a glass.
4. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and the melted salted butter. Sprinkle them with salt, pepper and basil.
5. Preheat the oven to 200C and bake them for 40-45 minutes, or until crispy enough. Meanwhile prepare the yogurt dip.
6. As a final tough, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and serve with the greek yogurt dip. It’s gonna be addictive.
How to make the yogurt dip:
1. Place the greek yogurt into a bowl and stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, parsley, dill and olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Let it chill until the potatoes are done.
Enjoy this extremely easy and delicious meal! It’s like out of this world.
August 28, 2024

crispy, easy recipe, potatoes, Recipes, yogurt dip