Start the new year off right with these 5 power-packed recipes that will give a fresh start

We try with all our might to resist the rich and calorie-laden foods that are the norm during the year-end festivities. But, despite our efforts to fight temptation, the holiday season does creep up on us with loads of calories from food that may not be so healthy. This can, in turn, make us a bit sluggish at the beginning of the year. So why not try some recipes that can boost your energy levels, so you can stick to your resolutions for a fresh, new start! These energy-boosting recipes are just what you and your little ones need.

Green Whole Wheat Pasta

Preparation Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 1

Method

1. Combine all ingredients, except for the pasta, in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Mix this sauce with any form of cooked whole wheat pasta. Serve hot.
3. Optionally, you can also add sauteed vegetables of your choice. Mushrooms go well with spinach sauce.

New Way Pancakes

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 4

Method

1. Combine flour, oats, chopped almonds, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Whisk egg, buttermilk, half of the maple syrup, and 2 tbsp of oil in a medium bowl Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix well.
3. Put a griddle or large non-stick skillet on medium heat and brush it with a little oil. Place two slices of apple in the skillet, spacing them about inches apart, and cook until lightly golden or for about one minute.
4. Turn over the pancakes and pour one-third cup batter over apples, spreading the batter evenly to cover the apples.
5. Cook the pancake until the underside is golden brown and bubbles form on the surface, for about three minutes.
6. Flip and cook until done, for around two minutes. Transfer to a plate. Repeat with remaining apple slices and batter, brushing the griddle with more oil as needed.
7. Serve pancakes with yoghurt and remaining maple syrup.

Pine 'Apple' Juice

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Serves: 2

Method

1. Combine all ingredients in a juicer (preferably cold-pressed).
2. Serve and consume immediately.

Toast with a Twist

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Serves: 1

Method

1. In a pan, toss chopped toasted hazelnuts in a little olive oil.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread Greek yoghurt over the toasted bread.
4. Top with hazelnuts and drizzle with honey.

Secret Smoothie

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Serves: 1

Method

1. Put all the ingredients in a blender.
2. Add ice according to your preference and blend well.
3. Serve immediately.

All these recipes are extremely simple and easy to prepare yet pack a punch so that you get your daily dose of nutrients. Try these with your children and everyone will be asking for a second serving.