Thanksgiving side dishes/7 recipes

A tasty, substantial dish with many health benefits. Recent studies show that eating tofu lowers the risk of a number of age related diseases. Tofu contains high levels of isoflavones, one is called Genistein, that inhibits the growth of cancer cells because of it’s antioxidant properties. Tofu is versatile as can be bought in different consistencies depending on the recipe, firm for grilling, soft for casseroles and silken for desserts.

In celebration of St Patrick’s day we’ve created this scrumptious colcannon stuffed and shamrock shaped ravioli recipe, that’s accompanied by a delectable saffron and sun-dried tomato oil to top the dish off. You’ll certainly feel like you’ve got the luck of the Irish if you try it. If you’re wondering how the shamrock originally became associated, well according to Irish legend, Saint Patrick used the three-leafed plant as a metaphor for the Holy Trinity when he was first introducing Christianity to Ireland.

A healthy vegan recipe, ideal for using up leftover Christmas day vegetables on Boxing Day. It’s a light dish perfect after the indulgences of Christmas day. Chickpea flour is naturally gluten free, chickpeas are a super source of protein, fibre and iron. The skin of vegetables and fruit are quite often a good source of nutrition in itself, the dark skin of the Zucchini/courgette is high in soluble fibre which slows digestion and stabilises sugar levels. The dark skin of the Eggplant/Aubergine is full of fibre, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants, Tomato skin is full of antioxidants too so before removing skins bear this information in mind.

A healthy flavoursome take on an Italian classic. Nutritional yeast has a nutty cheesy flavour making it a good alternative for a vegan diet, especially as it is a complete protein. Other benefits are all the B vitamins which are important for everyone’s health but more so for those on a vegan/vegetarian diet. This yeast is rich in Selenium which helps to repair cell damage therefore helping to reduce the risk of cancer. It has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, it improves digestion and as it is rich in folate pregnant women should include this in their diet. Just a few reasons to get familiar with this cosmopolitan dish.

This is a really simple recipe to make and all the prep and cooking can be done in under half an hour, so there really is no excuse not to give it a go. They will last for up to 7 days, if stored in an airtight container, so are perfect to make in batches and snack on throughout the week.

These delicious sweet potato balls are a fantastic, easy and healthy starter recipe. They’re vegan, gluten free and can be frozen to be saved for another day. You could also serve these as a nutritious and delicious side dish if you’d prefer.

This delicious salmon salad recipe is super simple, really refreshing and totally delicious. It makes a fantastic easy lunch or side dish and you can even prepare it the night before and take as a grab and go lunch. For this recipe you can use fresh lemon juice instead of adding a dressing.

One of the most popular north Indian dishes, Matar Paneer is a staple in almost every household. A delicious curry dish made with cottage cheese, green peas and tomato puree based sauce, it is simple to make yet packs in a punch with the flavours. Best enjoyed with naan, chapatti or rice, it is the ultimate dish for the vegetarians looking to get their daily dose of protein while tickling their taste buds with something appetising and flavoursome.

Thai Red Curry is easily the most popular dish from Thailand. Made with an aromatic mix of fresh vegetables, herbs & spices, and red chilies; it offers a harmony of tastes and textures that is truly amazing. Its rich, spicy and bold taste, with a subtle hint of sweetness, is effectively hot without being overpowering. It’s warm and comforting and just perfect for days when you are craving for something simple yet indulgent. A traditional spicy Thai Red Curry is usually best enjoyed with fragrant steamed rice but in some places, it is also eaten with noodles.

Ice Worms were first introduced to Upper Canada by Chatham's original settlers in the 1800's. Most Ice Worm dishes are homemade from family recipes that have been passed down for generations, and are often available for sale at local convenience stores or specialty food shops in and around the Municipality of Chatham-Kent. Although not available commercially for sale due to Health Canada restrictions on some of the ingredients (mainly the worms) you will still see Ice Worms being sold along the highways of Canada's deep south near the shores of Lake Erie, and in small communities along the Thames river around Chatham, Ontario.

Beef and Vegetable Kebabs recipe

Carrot Soup with Coriander recipe

Falafel, Vegetarian Style recipe

Cheesy Chili for a Crowd recipe

Maple Pecan Pie recipe