Dieting for summer?

Did you know that herbs, spices and seasonings can be fully enjoyed when you’re trying to lose weight? There is no reason at all to restrict yourself to eating plain meats, fish, salads and vegetables as you can spice them up without adding those dreaded extra calories! Many of our spice blends are wonderful used as rubs on meats and fish, they also add a great depth of flavour to sauces, soups and stews. Salads, rice dishes and couscous can also be jazzed up by the use of spices – try a sprinkle of lemony Sumac next time you’re serving up a salad or stir some roasted garlic powder through a bowl of couscous mixed with chopped spring onions, peppers and tomatoes.

Here’s a few ideas you can take into the summer that are diet friendly and will certainly create something exciting while you are trying to be healthy!

Now, a salad can be off putting for some and it takes a lot of ingredients to make it look appealing. So try a sprinkle of our crushed Sumac berries next time you’re serving up your lettuce leaves to give it a fruity hit. If you like a middle eastern version with layers of houmous (homemade and healthy of course!), Sumac also adds a lovely twist.

Another amazing addition for salad is chipotle chilli flakes! Especially if you like your spice with kick, you can mix these with oil and make a dressing or if you have topped your salad bowl with salmon or veggies, just scatter straight on top.

We all know the benefits of the amazing bulb of garlic, so using our Roasted garlic powder through a bowl of couscous or wholegrain rice adds a tonne of character. Try mixing chopped spring onions, peppers, and tomatoes to make sure you’re cramming as much goodness in as you can!

A great way to liven up you protein source is adding Mediterranean herbs; why not try flattening chicken breasts and cover with a mix of tarragon or oregano with lemon juice…automatically gives you bags of flavour!

Cumin has a wonderful way of giving most dishes that smoky and warm flavour so a few pinches over roasted vegetables or into a healthy soup is the key to make a bland meal into a delicious one!

There are plenty more seasonings that you can use, even when dieting. Find below some of the healthier recipes on our website for you to browse through.

Feta, Carrot & Chickpea Salad – https://www.seasonedpioneers.com/recipes/feta-carrot-and-chickpea-salad/

Chiptole Chicken Salad – https://www.seasonedpioneers.com/recipes/chipotle-chicken-salad/

Lentil & Sweet Potato Soup – https://www.seasonedpioneers.com/recipes/lentil-and-sweet-potato-soup/

Baharat Veg Stir Fry – https://www.seasonedpioneers.com/recipes/baharat-vegetable-stir-fry/