Lentil soups are one of my favourites this time of year and this one is packed with vegetables and spices that warm you from the inside in these freezing temperatures. If you are looking for a delicious, healthy and quick to make lunch or dinner recipe high in protein, then this is it! This recipe is vegan and gluten free and perfect for meal prep!

Here's what you'll need:
(this makes 4 portions)

In a big pot heat the olive oil and fry the onoin, carrot, celery, potato, garlic and ginger, then add all the spices as well as some salt. Make sure to chop your veggies quite finely and similar in size. Stir well and let the aromas of the spices unfold. If needed, deglaze the pot with some water every once in a while. 

Once your vegetables start to soften, add both types of lentils and a litre of vegetable stock to your pot, as well as a heaped tablespoon of tomato puree. Stir well until combined and let simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the lentils are cooked all the way through. Now add the coconut milk and the baby spinach and stir until the spinach has wilted into the soup. Season your soup to taste with salt, pepper and lemon juice.

Serve with some plant based yoghurt, some parsley and maybe another squeeze of lemon or lime.

And there you have it, one super healthy and delicious winter warmer soup :) If you make this recipe let me know in the comments below and tag me in your photos on instagram at jessinretrospect :)

Winter is well and truly upon us now so if you're anything like me, you'll want all the hearty and warming foods to stay cosy in these temperatures. If so you should absolutely give this roasted couscous skillet recipe a go! It's packed full of seasonal vegetables but made a little more exciting by adding the couscous and loads of oriental spices as well as my favourite for adding a special touch: pomegranate seeds.

Here's what you'll need:

Preheat your oven to 200°C.

Cook your couscous in the vegetable stock according to package instructions.

Chop all the vegetables and place in a bowl, add about a tablespoon of olive oil as well as all the spices to taste. Stir well until all the vegetables are covered in the spice mixture then place in your skillet or other ovenproof dish and roast in the oven for about 20 minutes or until the carrots and parsnips can be easily pierced with a fork.

Once your couscous is ready, fluff it up with a fork, then add a teaspoon of harissa paste and stir well until it's evenly coated. 

Add the couscous to the skillet and roast for another 5 to 10 minutes.

Serve with a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds and some parsley.

This is a super quick and easy to make autumn/winter dinner that's not only delicious but also packed full of healthy ingredients to fight off any colds and flus!

If you like this recipe leave me a comment and share the recipe with all your friends :)