In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure to create elaborate meals.

However, sometimes all you need is a bit of grace and the ability to whip up something delicious using what's already in your cupboard.

This is the premise that my business is built on: good food shouldn’t be complicated and should consist of everyday ingredients cooked simply.

Here are a few Delicious and Real, quick and easy recipes that will save you time and effort, allowing you to enjoy a tasty meal without the fuss.

Chickpea Curry

 1 tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

 1 tin of chopped tomatoes

 1 onion, finely chopped

 2 cloves of garlic, minced

 1 tablespoon curry powder (you choose the strength)

 1 teaspoon ground cumin

 1 teaspoon ground coriander

 Salt and pepper to taste

 1 tablespoon oil

 Fresh coriander, chopped (optional)

1. Heat the oil in a pan over low heat. Add the onion and fry until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another minute

2. Add the curry powder, cumin, and coriander: stir for a minute to release the spices’ flavours

3. Pour in the chopped tomatoes and chickpeas; stir well and bring to a simmer

4. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Garnish with fresh coriander and serve with rice (a packet is fine!) or naan.

Tuna Pasta

 200g pasta of your choice

 1 tin of tuna, drained

 1 tin of sweetcorn, drained

 1 tin of chopped tomatoes

 2 cloves of garlic, minced

 Large handful of spinach (chopped) -you can use frozen, defrost first

 1 tsp dried oregano

 Salt and pepper to taste

 100g cheddar cheese, grated

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions; drain and set aside

2. In the same pot, add a bit of oil and gently fry the garlic (do not let it burn)

3. Add the chopped tomatoes, tuna, and sweetcorn. Stir well

4. Stir in the spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes.

5. Return the pasta to the pot and mix until everything is well combined. Top with grated cheese – you can serve straight away, or pop in the oven to melt the cheese

Lentil Soup

 1 carrot, finely diced

 1 onion, finely diced

 2 cloves of garlic, minced

 1 tin of lentils, drained and rinsed

 1 tin of chopped tomatoes

 1 litre vegetable stock

 1 teaspoon dried thyme

 1 teaspoon paprika

 Salt and pepper to taste

 1 tablespoon oil

1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and fry until softened (adding a lid will speed up the process, as will a smaller dice)

2. Add the garlic and fry for another minute

3. Add the lentils, chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock

4. Stir in the thyme and paprika; bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes

5. Season with salt and pepper; for a smoother consistency, blend half of the soup and mix it back in (or blend the whole soup)

6. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side (I love a part baked baguette – I always have some in the freezer!)

Final Thoughts

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be enjoyable and satisfying and, by utilising cupboard staples, you can create a variety of delicious meals with minimal effort.

Give yourself the grace to make simple, nourishing food that fits into your busy lifestyle. After all, the best meals are those that bring comfort and joy without adding stress to your day.