As awareness grows around ultra-processed foods, their prevalence in our weekly food shops, and the impact they can have on our health, more and more of us are looking for ways to incorporate more whole foods and unprocessed ingredients into our diet.
Here to help is our roundup of recipes from dedicated unprocessed cookbooks, including The Food for Life Cookbook by ZOE’s Tim Spector, How Not to Eat Ultra-Processed, Good Food: Ultimate Unprocessed Recipes, and Real Healthy by Melissa Hemsley.
Cashew Cream Green Curry
Inspired by the fresh, spicy, savoury flavours of Thai green curry, this warming dish will help you incorporate plenty of fibre and plants into your weekly meal plan.
Herby Pea Pancakes
Packed with fibre, protein, grains and greens, these savoury pancakes are versatile option for brunch or lunch. Customise with eggs, avocado, or a selection of your favourite savoury toppings.
Carrot Cake with Tahini Orange Frosting
If you thought that cutting down on ultra-processed food meant eliminating sweet treats, think again. Tim Spector’s take on a baking classic is moist, delicious, and topped with a tangy, protein-rich topping of Greek yoghurt and tahini.
Melissa Hemsley’s Peperonata Pasta (Italian Pepper Sauce)
Featuring a delicious sauce made with fresh ingredients (that’s perfect for leftovers), this vegetarian orzo dish makes for a simple yet tasty midweek dinner.
Melissa Hemsley’s White Chicken Chilli
If you’re craving something hearty and warming, look no further than this tomato-free chilli featuring tender chicken thigh meat, plenty of veg and white beans, and an array of optional toppings for added colour, flavour and freshness.
Melissa Hemsley’s Chocolate Peanut Butter (No-bake) Bars
Ideal for an afternoon pick-me-up, these delicious no-bake bars are a customisable treat that the whole family can enjoy.
Prawn Fried Rice
Fresh and flavourful, this 30-minute fried recipe is a failsafe option for busy weeknight dinners.
Chicken Cacciatore One-pot with Orzo
This comforting one-pot pasta bake features fresh rosemary, thyme, parsley and chicken stock for the ultimate flavour boost.
Ultimate Plum and Apple Cobbler
A great way to round off a Sunday roast, this versatile golden-topped cobbler with seasonal stewed fruit pairs beautifully with a generous pour of cream.
Butterbean Shakshuka
Rich in protein and fibre, this one-pot shakshuka makes for a delicious brunch or supper thanks to its smoky, savoury tomato sauce.
Sweet Potato Fritters
Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, this sweet potato-based recipe for moreish fritters comprises courgette, sweetcorn, feta, and mouth-watering spices for the ultimate brunch or lunch dish.
Pear and Almond Traybake
Pear and almond are a classic flavour combination for a reason, and this easy sponge recipe – complete with wholemeal flour for an added health boost – proves that you don’t need to resort to ultra-processed ingredients for a great-tasting dessert.
