Easy Vegetarian recipes to feed yourself when you’re having a bad mental health day (Snack Edition)
Having a bad day? Feeling down but you've got to cook? On tough days, even the simplest routine tasks can feel overwhelming, let alone cooking. The mere thought of having to plan what you are going to eat for breakfast, lunch and dinner can be exhausting. It’s tempting to skip meals when you are feeling low or burnt out, as depression dulls your appetite and when you're already feeling drained, summoning the energy to decide what to cook and actually cook it can seem insurmountable. Hunger can make you more sensitive and vulnerable, intensifying the symptoms of depression and burnout. But eating ‘good and wholesome food’ especially those that are easy to make can uplift your mood and improve your energy levels.
In this 4-part article series, we’ll be sharing a few vegetarian recipes you can make when you are having a bad mental health day.
In the previous article, we delved into my go-to lunch recipes, perfect for those moments when your soul craves extra warmth. Now, let’s explore some snack options.
Though I’m not one to indulge in frequent snacking, I know some of you love to. If you find yourself reaching for a bite between meals, here are some light snack options. These are sure to lift your spirits and don’t require much preparation time. Think of them as a little mood booster!
Option #1: Green Smoothie
At times, I have this with my breakfast when I want to increase my green intake. It is just a one-step recipe.
Image from Canva Pro
Ingredients:
½ Avocado
½ cup milk (I prefer full-fat milk)
½ cup arugula
½ cup chopped kale
½ banana (frozen preferred)
½ tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: In a blender, combine all the ingredients and blend until smooth. Add more milk if needed.
Step 2: Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Piece of cake, right? If you are not a green smoothie person, trust me with this one — it’s irresistibly delicious!
Option #2: Bhel Chaat
A perfect Indian snack! It is so easy to make and everyone loves its sweet and tangy flavour.
Image from Canva Pro
Ingredients:
2 cups of Bhel (puffed rice)
1 onion
1 tomato
1 cucumber
½ lemon
½ tablespoon black pepper
½ tablespoon salt (as per taste)
1 tablespoon green chutney (recommended)
1 green chilli
½ tablespoon chaat masala
½ tablespoon ground cumin
Instructions:
Step 1: Finely chop onion, tomato, green chilli and cucumber. Add them to a bowl.
Step 2: Squeeze lemon over the mixture and add all the above spices.
Step 3: Drizzle green chutney for a tangy flavour. Add more to your taste.
Step 4: Finally, add the bhel and mix everything well.
There you go! If you love it spicy — add red chilli powder. Consume it immediately so it does not get soggy – a crunch is a must!
Option #3: Chia Seed Pudding
My comfort meal! This recipe could not get any easier.
Image from Canva Pro
Ingredients:
1 cup milk
2 tablespoon chia seeds
A fruit of choice; chopped (I prefer apple or banana)
Instructions:
Step 1: In an air-tight container or bowl, combine milk and chia seeds. Mix well.
Step 2: Secure the lid and refrigerate for four to five hours.
Step 3: Top with chopped fruits, nuts, or berries.
There you have it — my all-time favourite mood-boosting snack recipes. Remember, nourishment is the key when you need a little pick-me-up. When life gets a little extra, trying something new can make all the difference.
Craving more? Stay tuned for the final article for dinner inspiration. Until then, stay well-fed!
Check out the previous articles for breakfast and lunch recipes.