Healthy Recipes to Try During a Lockdown

With the world currently facing various forms of lockdown measures, health-conscious meal planning and cooking can be a great way to maintain a balanced diet while staying indoors. Here, we present a selection of simple, healthy recipes that can be easily prepared within your kitchen, requiring minimal time and resources.

1. Creamy Avocado Burrito

This healthy chicken avocado burrito is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Each burrito is stuffed with a generous portion of juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and melty cheese, complemented by a spicy salsa verde and sour cream. The burritos are wrapped in warm corn tortillas, ready for a delicious barbecue experience.

Ingredients

4 corn tortillas (use gluten-free for a gluten-free option) 1 pound cooked chicken, sliced or shredded 1 avocado, diced 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese 1/4 cup salsa verde 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

To prepare, warm the tortillas and layer the ingredients inside, making sure the cheese is placed appropriately to melt properly. Bake for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

2. No-Bake Protein Bars

These no-bake protein bars are a quick and easy way to ensure you have a healthy snack at your fingertips. Made with oats, peanut butter, whey protein, almonds, cashews, raisins, and a touch of honey, they take only a few minutes to prepare and can be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before enjoying them.

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats 1/4 cup peanut butter 1 scoop whey protein 1/4 cup almonds, roughly chopped 1/4 cup cashews, roughly chopped 1/4 cup raisins 2 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup milk (or milk alternative)

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl, then press into a baking dish and refrigerate for a few hours to set. Once firm, cut into bars and enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container.

3. Avocado Toast

A classic healthy avocado toast is a quick and nutritious breakfast that can be ready in just 10 minutes. Simply mash a ripe avocado and mix in some salt, pepper, cayenne, and chia seeds. Spread this paste on a sprouted or whole wheat bread slice and you're done. This meal is not only satisfying but also packed with vitamins and minerals to keep you going until lunchtime.

4. Quick Vegetarian Chilli

Need a hearty lunch but don't want to cook for long? This quick vegetarian chilli is the perfect solution. In a large saucepan, combine canned red beans, diced and roasted tomatoes, frozen corn, green beans, and vegetable stock. Add salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder, and let it heat through in the microwave. This easy and nutritious chilli can be ready in minutes and is a great way to enjoy a balanced meal.

5. Superfood Breakfast Salad

Start your day off right with this superfood breakfast salad. Combine blueberries, spinach, a poached egg, and chopped walnuts with a drizzle of honey and balsamic vinegar. This salad is not only beautiful to look at but also packed with antioxidants and immune-boosting nutrients, making it a perfect way to kick-start your morning.

These easy, healthy recipes are designed to provide nutrition and variety in your daily meals. Whether you're cooking for yourself or your family, these options can help you maintain a balanced diet without having to compromise on taste or convenience.