Maintaining good gut health begins with your dietary choices – and this does not imply that you must eliminate gluten, dairy, or any of your favorite foods. In fact, according to NHS doctor and MasterChef champion Dr. Saliha Mahmood-Ahmed, “Removing foods such as gluten or dairy without justification can negatively impact your gut health.” Instead, she advocates for a more enjoyable approach: “Strive for 30 different plants each week, utilize herbs and spices generously, and focus on fiber.”
To facilitate this process (and enhance its flavor), Dr. Saliha has collaborated with Yakult to develop a collection of three vibrant, flavor-rich recipes tailored for the summer season. Centered on plant diversity, fiber, and simplicity, these meals are not only beneficial for your microbiome but also genuinely exciting to prepare and enjoy.
“As a physician and a culinary enthusiast, I have always maintained that gut-friendly eating does not have to be limiting or tasteless,” she states. “It is about embracing diversity on your plate: incorporating more plants, a wider array of colors, and a variety of flavors.”
Crushed greens combined with feta and mint served on toast
A breakfast or brunch rich in fiber, filled with greens, herbs, and creamy feta
open image in gallery. A breakfast or brunch rich in fiber, filled with greens, herbs, and creamy feta (Yakult). An excellent method to incorporate vegetables into your breakfast or brunch. You may add a poached or boiled egg if you prefer it over a fried egg. The recipe yields more topping for the toast than necessary, which is advantageous! I utilize the leftovers the following day on toast or as a dip with crostini or crackers when a snack is desired.
Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad
A vibrant, prepare-in-advance pasta salad brimming with lentils, vegetables, and tangy herbs
open image in gallery. A vibrant, prepare-in-advance pasta salad brimming with lentils, vegetables, and tangy herbs (Yakult).This delightful pasta salad is both nutritious and satisfying. It stores well in the refrigerator, and you can incorporate herbs or additional salad greens just prior to serving. This dish is especially suitable for large gatherings where advance preparation is desired. Feel free to include any vegetables you prefer, especially those that may be hiding in the back of your fridge.
Ras el hanout and orange-infused aubergine traybake accompanied by herb and orange couscous
Roasted aubergine seasoned with comforting spices and citrus, paired with herb-enriched couscous
open image in gallery. Roasted aubergine seasoned with comforting spices and citrus, paired with herb-enriched couscous (Yakult).This is a filling and satisfying dinner option. You may include any variety of soft herbs you prefer – I enjoy using parsley, coriander, and mint. The addition of oranges provides a much-needed sweet and citrusy brightness to the overall dish.
