By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Are you looking to bridge the gap between the sun-soaked days of Summer and the frosty embrace of Winter? Transitioning your much-loved warm-weather dishes into comforting cold-night alternatives is the perfect way to savour the flavours you love while embracing the cosy vibes of the moments
Here are our five favourite ways to Winterise your Summer foods:
Spruce up your salads:
Summer salads bursting with crisp carrots and tangy tomatoes may not be as appealing when the temperatures drop (and produce is not so readily available). You can easily transform your lunchtime serve of greens into a hearty Winter equivalent by incorporating seasonal veggies.
Think roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts or caramelised pumpkins - these veggies add depth and warmth to your salads, making them satisfying and nourishing on chilly days.
Experiment with different combinations of roasted veggies, grains like quinoa or farro, nuts and a tangy vinaigrette to create a salad that's both comforting and nutritious.
Blast the heat on breakfast:
This month, it’s time to bid farewell to smoothies, superfood bowls and the kind of fruity breakfasts best enjoyed on a Sunny morning - instead say hello to warm and comforting breakfast alternatives.
A steaming bowl of oatmeal topped with sliced bananas, toasted nuts and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup is the epitome of Winter comfort food. You can also try savoury oatmeal topped with a poached egg, avocado and a sprinkle of cheese for a satisfying twist.
If you're craving something indulgent, whip up a batch of fluffy pancakes or waffles and serve them with warm fruit compote or a dollop of whipped cream.
Slow roasting rules:
While Summer may be synonymous with sizzling sausages on the barbeque, Winter calls for a different cooking approach. Slow roasting is the key to unlocking deep, caramelised flavours in your favourite foods.
Instead of grilling, try slow roasting a leg of lamb alongside vegetables like tomatoes, capsicum and eggplant. The low and slow cooking process intensifies the natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth of flavour. Use these roasted veggies to top pizzas, toss through pasta or layer onto sandwiches for a delicious Winter twist.
No such thing as forbidden fruit:
Summer fruit salads are refreshing on a hot day, but in the Winter, you'll want something a bit cosier. Baking your favourite fruits with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves is a simple yet decadent way to enjoy them during the colder months.
Apples, pears and berries all lend themselves beautifully to baking. Try this recipe for plum cobbler, serve the baked fruit on its own with a dollop of Greek yoghurt or vanilla ice cream, or use it as a topping for oatmeal, pancakes or French toast.
Raise a glass to dropping temps:
Finally, don't forget to warm up from the inside out with hot beverages that evoke the flavours of Summer. Instead of iced tea or lemonade, for example, try brewing herbal teas infused with in-season fruits like berries or citrus.
While a Spanish sangria may be off the menu, you can also make a spiced cider or mulled wine with a splash of your favourite Winter fruit juice for a refreshing twist.
