Bright and Zesty Dishes to Banish Winter Blues
After weeks of cold weather, it’s easy to get stuck in a recipe rut. We start craving colour, freshness, and flavours that spark a little joy. Luckily, citrus fruits, crunchy veggies, and fragrant herbs are here to bring a little sunshine to our plates, no matter the temperature!
So here are some colourful, vitamin-packed recipes that will keep you going all year long and are just what you need as we close out February.
Buon appetito!
Fennel, orange and arugula salad
Citrus in Sicily first start making their appearance in December and this salad is a tribute to them. It’s a fresh and colourful dish that lightens up hearty winter meals. Swap the orange for whatever citrus is in season for that extra touch of freshness.
As we wait for the abbondanza of the warmer seasons, we suggest you turn your attention to the glorious root vegetables. They once again have our back in this surprisingly fresh, versatile, and colourful salad. It’s perfect as a side, but also shines bright as a base for a full meal. Just add tuna, beans, or any other protein and call it a day!
To switch things up a little and take a break from the classic green salad, why not try a vitamin-packed alternative? This gem of a recipe showcases the plethora of seasonal citrus fruits available to us during the winter months. A colourful classic straight from the South of the boot that will brighten up any feast. Let the sunshine in!
This is an all-purpose vinaigrette. Simple but vibrante. Can be kept in the fridge for 5 to 7 days. Perfect on any salade but also as a marinade for chicken or fish. So it’s a good idea to make doubles or triples so you’re ready for any eventuality and quick dinners will be a breeze!
Simplicity at its best! Even when you think you have nothing in the pantry and fridge, think again. These minimal ingredients make a massive impact. Fresh and summery as can be, this is a bright and sunny meal that can be made with next to nothing. Enjoy it with a crisp glass of catarratto!
Looking for a classic restaurant dish to cook at home? We got you! The trick is to flour the meat lightly before searing it to ensure top-notch colouring and a rich, thick sauce. Serve your chicken piccata with a simple side of butter pasta, a big green salad, or even just a nice crusty bread to soak up the goodness (scarpetta anyone?) Whatever you do, just make sure that not even one drop of this sumptuous sauce goes to waste!
The name gives it away! This olive oil cake is super fragrant with lemon, extremely moist thanks to extra-virgin olive oil, and the interior is as yellow as the sun. A slice is perfect as is, but a topping of fresh berries and whipped mascarpone cream really makes it shine.
Sweet and creamy ricotta balanced with delicious citrus flavours … what’s not to love? This recipe has stood the test of time, and we now serve these cookies at most of our family get-togethers. What’s more, kids love getting stuck in and helping to make them, or at least they enjoy decorating them! Simple, tasty cookies to brighten up everyone’s day.
