With the cold weather firmly here, food is the perfect pick me up on a cold winter’s day.
Whether you are making a quick lunch during your work week or have time to be a bit more indulgent, comfort food hits the spot every time. Here are some ideas to level up your lunchtimes and keep you cosy and warm throughout the winter months.
Toasties and grilled sandwiches
Sometimes there is nothing more satisfying than a toastie or a grilled cheese. One of the best things about them is how easy they are to make – 10 minutes and you have a delicious warm lunch.
Perhaps the most classic flavour is ham and cheese. Melted cheese combined with the saltiness of ham is enough to satisfy any tastebuds. If you are looking to get in the festive spirit, however, pop some brie bacon and cranberry sauce between your slices instead for the ultimate feel-good toastie. Follow with a delicious coffee and a flaky pastry for a truly indulgent lunch.
Soups for ultimate warmth
Soups are the perfect winter lunch. Warm and tasty, you will find yourself craving different flavours as the months wear on, never getting bored of homemade soup.
There are some classic soup flavours such as tomato and basil, pea and ham, or even chicken and mushrooms. These pair perfectly with some crusty buttered bread and can feel like a real treat despite them being healthy.
If you want to switch things up, why not go for a heartier chicken noodle or lentil and bacon? You could forego the bread as the added veggies and noodles will surprisingly fill you up.
Pasta bowls for indulgence
Pasta is often touted as the ultimate comfort food and for good reason. It is a versatile ingredient, meaning you can combine it with almost anything you fancy!
For a hot meal, opt for a creamy mac and cheese. You can spice this classic dish up by adding extra ingredients such as chorizo, chicken or even crab! This is the perfect dish to prepare in advance and heat up by popping it under the grill to crisp up the cheese.
Pasta also works well as a cold dish. Tuna pasta salad is another classic and everyone always has opinions on the best way to make it. Add a side salad or a slice of garlic bread for total indulgence.
Baked potatoes with toppings
Potatoes are often overlooked when it comes to using them as the star of a dish. Baked potatoes, however, are kings among potato dishes and are so easy to make.
Whether you use the microwave or the oven, there is something incredibly satisfying about slicing your knife through crispy skin to the soft, fluffy innards.
A baked potato dish wouldn’t be complete without some delicious toppings. Go classic with cheese, beans or even tuna or opt for something a bit different such as chilli or even leftover Bolognese sauce if you have had pasta earlier in the week.
