Did you know that the food you eat can affect your mood and mental wellbeing? By eating a variety of different kinds of foods that offer a variety of nutrients and minerals can help to enhance those feel-good hormones in the brain and actually put you in a better mood.
Here are 4 mood-boosting recipes that are easy to make;
1. Super Healthy Smoothie Pops
Not only are these smoothie pops fun to eat, but they also contain a host of nutritious ingredients such as bananas, honey, oats and yoghurt. The addition of bananas offers a great source of the amino acid tryptophan, which helps the body to create serotonin – a mood-enhancing chemical!
They are great as a delicious snack for the kids on a hot summer’s day, or to serve as a dessert with a difference at your next braai.
Get the Healthy Smoothie Pops Recipe
2. Vegan Chilli Con Carne With Beans, Chickpeas and Lentils
This super-satisfying con carne is packed with a melody of aromatic dried herbs and spices, and also contains chickpeas and lentils, which are full of plant-based protein, iron and Vitamin B3. These nutrients are also known to boost serotonin production.
Great as a vegan dinner for the whole family especially on those lazy Sunday afternoons or cold winter evenings.
Try the Vegan Chilli Con Carne with Beans, Chickpeas and Lentils
3. Roasted Salmon Fillet With Tomato Sauce
Fatty fishes like salmon are a wonderful and tasty source of Omega 3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are also thought to be beneficial for alleviating depression and improving mood.
This recipe is always a family favourite and can also be used with alternative fish sources like trout too. It’s the perfect dinner option for every season and can be served with sweet potato mash in the winter or a delicious side salad in summer.
Try our Roasted Salmon Fillet With Tomato Sauce Recipe
Bacon Caesar Salad With a Bokkom Caesar Dressing
Not only is this light and delicious Caesar salad a great lunchtime meal, but it also includes eggs, which contain choline, an essential nutrient that supports the nervous system and produces mood-regulating brain chemicals.
Your family will love this nutrient-packed salad that tastes great too. Take out the bacon and replace with halloumi to make a great vegetarian friendly option too.
Make your own Bacon Caesar Salad With a Bokkom Caesar Dressing meal today!
Get inspired by What’s For Dinner Now!
Prioritising your mental health and that of your family is key, and it’s never been easier thanks to What’s For Dinner. We offer a wide range of yummy recipes that will get even the fussiest of mouths watering. From meat dishes to vegan-friendly ones, you’ll find a host of delicious recipes inspired by seasonal produce and good-old South African produce online now.
How To Prepare Vibrant Meals?
When preparing meals for you and your family, don’t be afraid to use seasonal fruits and vegetables that you perhaps wouldn’t normally try. For spring dishes and colourful food recipes, try What’s For Dinner for inspiration using the most delicious seasonal ingredients possible.