Hello Delicious!

Breakfasts

1. Fortified whole-grain cereal with low-fat milk and blueberries (Fights depression)

The cereal’s fortified with vitamin B, which studies have linked to good mental health. Plus recent research suggests people who slurp down vitamin D in a serving of milk don’t just build strong bones — they’re also less likely to get depressed. And those berries may be blue, but they keep us from feeling that way. So get crunching tomorrow morning. Even a soggy bowl says smile!

2. Banana-almond-flax smoothie (Fights depression and stress)

Slurp some happiness on the go with a smoothie that does wonders for the mood and the taste buds. The potassium in bananas is a super stress-buster; plus nuts and flaxseed are great sourcesof omega-3s, which may help fight depression.

3. Buckwheat pancakes with sliced banana (Beats stress)

Whether they’re for breakfast or dinner, pancakes can almost always brighten up a bad day. And there’s science behind it, too: Buckwheat pancakes pack flavonoids that may help reduce stress(at least in mice). Top the stack with some sliced banana, filled with potassium, another stress-buster!

4. Full-fat Greek yogurt with honey and granola (Fights depression, boosts pleasure)

This positivity parfait packs a bunch of happy ingredients: protein from a creamy cupful of Greek yogurt increases levels of pleasure-boosting neurotransmitters, and the yogurt’s probiotics may be a tasty way to fight depression. Honey really is a spoonful of sweetness, with compounds that may fight depression by reducing inflammation in the brain. (Throw on some berries for extra healthy points!)

Salads

5. Salmon salad with vinaigrette (Fights depression)

When a bad mood hits, try a forkful of fish to feel better. Keep things cheery and green with this salmon salad, chock-full of omega-3-filled ingredients (like salmon and olive oil) that can help prevent symptoms of depression. Swap plain ol’ lettuce for spinach leaves for a bunch of mood-boosting B vitamins.

6. Warm quinoa, spinach, and shitake salad (Fights depression and anxiety)

Quinoa’s not only an awesome vegan protein source — it’s also a complex carbohydrate that can help prevent depression and anxiety by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. And beyond the B vitamins in spinach, mushrooms are a source of selenium, a compound that may help fight depression. This superfood-packed salad‘s got all the goods!

7. Beet, citrus, and avocado salad (Boosts energy)

This colorful concoction brightens up the mood and the dining table. A bowlful of beets helpsincrease happiness with tons of folate; the vitamin C in citrus fruit recharges the body; and the flavonoids in a squirt of lemon juice benefit the brain. Tell a bad day to beet it!

8. Wild seaweed salad (Fights depression and anxiety)

Vegetarians and carnivores alike can enjoy the positive feelings that come from a bowl of thissnazzy salad. Seaweed’s a source of iodine, which can help fight depression; brown rice is a complex carb that helps stabilize mood with serotonin; and the omega-3s in EVOO, flavonoids in lemon, and anthocyanins in honey may all boost mood.

Main Dishes

9. Poached eggs and asparagus (Fights depression and anxiety)

Eggs are a (perhaps surprisingly) good source of vitamin D, which may be important for fighting depression; they also provide mood-boosting vitamin B. And asparagus is filled with tryptophan, which increases levels of serotonin in the brain and helps prevent depression and anxiety.

10. Brown rice and black beans (Fights depression and anxiety)

Beans aren’t just good for the heart — they’re good for the mind, too, since the selenium in them can help reduce inflammation in the brain. Plus brown rice can boost mood by regulating serotonin levels. Try this great recipe for happiness.

11. Almond-crusted barramundi fish (Fights depression)

The name of this meal is fun to say, but that’s not all that’s great about it. Barramundi fish and almonds are excellent sources of omega-3s, which can help reduce depression and anxiety. Serve it with a side of spinach for a dose of B vitamins that also help create a positive mood. (Can’t find barramundi fish in the local grocery store? Try sea bass instead, although it doesn’t have quite as many omega-3s.)

12. Seared lamb chops with anchovies (Fights depression and beats stress)

Go classier — and happier — than chicken wings and use grass-fed meat in this dinner recipe. Lamb is packed with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a compound that reduces stress hormones, and anchovies provide depression-fighting omega-3s.

13. Turkey burger with sweet potato fries (Fights depression and anxiety)

Step up the traditional burger ’n fries with a meal that’s easier on the belly and the brain. Thetryptophan in turkey increases levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Plussweet potatoes are filled with mood-boosting B vitamins. Fry them in olive oil for some extra omega-3 happiness power!

Pasta

14. Spaghetti with steamed mussels (Fights depression and anxiety)

Mussels — and most types of shellfish — are loaded with B vitamins, important for a good mood^[11] Try this recipe, which features whole-wheat pasta and EVOO. Certain food combinations have a lot to do with mood: A meal that includes carbs, protein, and fat (like this one) can stop a case of the Debby Downers in its tracks.

15. Whole-wheat pasta with cauliflower and collards (Fights depression)

This vegetarian pasta dish has complex carbs, which help regulate mood, plus a serving of healthy veggies. Pack an extra punch with purple cauliflower — it not only looks cool, it also prevents depression with a hefty dose of B vitamins.

16. Walnut-miso noodles (Fights depression, anxiety, and stress)

Everything about this dish screams healthy, happy, and delicious. Whole-wheat pasta is a complex carb that increases serotonin levels, and walnuts pack omega-3s that fight depression and anxiety. And chop up some chard for a tasty topping that’s a great source of magnesium, which can improve snooze time and reduce stress levels, especially for ladies.

Soups and Stews

17. Chicken soup with vegetables (Boosts alertness)

Try a bowlful of the good stuff for the soul and for a smile. Chicken packs the protein that helps us stay alert and ready to tackle the day. And orange you glad vegetables like carrots and squash also improve mood. Loud slurping required.

18. Lentil and vegetable stew with kale (Fights depression)

Curl up with a cup of lentil stew on a rainy day to keep things sunny inside. Kale and the little legumes are great sources of folate, important for a good mood.

Side Dishes

19. Braised collards with tomatoes (Fights depression)

This picture-perfect side dish features B vitamins and lycopene, which may fight depression by reducing inflammation in the brain. Substitute cherry tomatoes for the whole tomatoes in this recipe, since it’s easier to eat more of the lycopene-packed skin that way.

20. Fresh corn and blue potato hash (Fights depression)

Don’t worry, these potatoes aren’t moldy, but they are delicious ways to get happy. Blue potatoes (and their skins) are loaded with anthocyanins and iodine, nutrients that reduce inflammation in the brain and help regulate mood. This creative recipe adds an extra bonus with the mood-boosting B vitamins in spinach.

Snacks and Desserts

21. Trail mix with nuts and dark chocolate (Boosts alertness and beats stress)

This crunchy combo is filled with monounsaturated fats that help prevent blood sugar crashes, a major cause of grouchiness. Plus they can increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood (and digestion). And a smidge of dark chocolate can prevent sluggishness with high levels of theobromine, a stimulant similar to caffeine. Plus even a few bites of the sweet stuff can reduce levels of sneaky stress hormones.

22. Granola bars with chocolate (Fights depression and anxiety)

These homemade treats may look like cookies, but they’re actually nutritious ways to perk up. They’re filled with ingredients that fight depression and anxiety, like the omega-3s in flaxseed and anthocyanins in honey. Even better, dark chocolate’s a stress-buster and oats are a source of soluble fiber that helps prevent mood swings.

23. Chocolate chia seed pudding (Fights depression and anxiety)

Ch-ch-ch-chia! And chocolate! A more nutritious alternative to the standard pudding cup, this recipe’s a double whammy for a good mood. Chia seeds are a source of those depression-and-anxiety-reducing Omega-3s, and dark cocoa powder helps keep bad moods in check.

Beverages

24. Coffee with cinnamon (Boosts energy)

There’s no Red Bull required to make it through a long afternoon. Coffee’s a natural stimulant, brightening a dismal day by boosting energy and metabolism.. A cup o’ Joe may also create feel-good feelings (in humans and in rats) by increasing levels of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. And a sprinkle of cinnamon’s all it takes to put some more pep in that step.

25. Green tea and honey (Relieves anger and anxiety)

Sip a cup of the green stuff at breakfast, before bedtime, or during a relaxing afternoon break. Green tea’s a great source of theanine, which helps reduce anger and improve concentration. Add a spoonful of honey to reap the benefits of anxiety-reducing anthocyanins.

(via thelast35)

Champagne Mojitos

Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1 cup water
1/2 oz fresh mint
1 bottle champagne or sparkling wine, chilled
2 limes

Directions:
To prepare simple syrup, combine sugar and water and bring to a boil. Lower heat and add a few sprigs of mint. Let cool.

Muddle 1/4 lime and some mint leaves in each glass. Add 2-3 Tbsp simple syrup to each glass. Fill with ice then top with champagne and stir.

Garnish with fresh mint and Lime wedges.

(Source: findvegan)

Vegan Key Lime Pie Shake

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. key lime juice (about 8 limes)
1 Tsp. key lime zest
2 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 cup light coconut milk
1 ripe frozen banana
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 Tsp. agave syrup
2 Tbsp. graham cracker crumbs
Green food colouring (optional)
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth

Top with soy or dairy based whip cream, sprinkle with additional graham crackers and garnish with a lime slice.

Serves 3-4 

Vegan Peach Cobbler Shake

Ingredients:

4 ripe peaches, sliced
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 Tbsp. Peach preserves, preferably natural, no sugar added
1 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 cup light coconut milk
1 ripe frozen banana
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
½ Tsp. cinnamon
dash nutmeg
2 Tbsp. graham cracker crumbs (check label to ensure it is vegan)
1 Tbsp. old fashioned oats
2-3 pecans (optional)
maple syrup, sweeten to taste (optional)
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth

Top with soy based whip cream, sprinkle with additional graham crackers and cinnamon. Garnish with a peach slice.

Serves 3-4 

Vegan Strawberry-Rhubarb Pie Shake

Ingredients:
1 cup strawberry rhubarb compote
½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 ½ cup light coconut milk
1 ripe frozen banana
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 Tbsp. graham cracker crumbs (check label to ensure it is vegan)
agave nectar, sweeten to taste (optional)
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender; pulse until smooth. Top with soy or dairy based whip cream and sprinkle with additional graham crackers.

Serves 2-3 

Vegan Coconut Cream Pie Shake

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh or frozen coconut meat
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 ½ cup light coconut milk
1 ripe frozen banana
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
2 Tbsp. graham cracker crumbs (check label to ensure it is vegan)
1 Tbsp. toasted coconut flakes
agave nectar, sweeten to taste (optional)
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine coconut meat, lemon juice, coconut oil, coconut milk, banana, vanilla, agave nectar (optional), graham cracker crumbs and ice cubes in a blender; pulse until smooth.

Top with soy or dairy based whip cream, sprinkle with additional graham crackers and garnish with toasted coconut flakes.

Serves 2-3 

Apple Pie Smoothie

Ingredients:

½ cup vanilla fat free yogurt
1 red delicious apple, cut into pieces
1 Tbsp. apple sauce
½ cup milk
1 Tbsp. 7 grain granola
1 Tbsp. unsalted almond butter
1 Tsp. Maple syrup
1 Tsp. honey
¼ Tsp. Ground cinnamon
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth. Serve immediately.

Serves 2 

Vegan Pumpkin Pie Shake

Ingredients:

¾ Cup Pumpkin Butter
1 Tbsp. coconut oil
1 cup light coconut milk
1 ripe frozen banana
1 Tsp. pure vanilla extract
½ Tsp. cinnamon
dash nutmeg
2 Tbsp. graham cracker crumbs (check label to ensure it is vegan)
1 Tbsp. old fashioned oats
2-3 pecans (optional)
maple syrup, sweeten to taste (optional)
ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender and pulse until smooth

Top with soy based whip cream, sprinkle with additional graham crackers and cinnamon. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

Serves 3-4 

Chai Concentrate

Ingredients:
5 cups water
10 bags of black tea
2 cinnamon sticks
1 vanilla bean, sliced in half
½ cup brown sugar
12 whole cloves
9 cardamon pods
½ Tsp freshly ground nutmeg
2 star anise pods
½ Tsp black peppercorns
8 corriander seeds
½ Tsp ground allspice
1 Tbsp orange zest
1 inch piece of ginger, sliced into discs
1 Tbsp. honey (optional)

Directions:
In a large pot, bring water to a rapid boil. Add tea bags, spices, orange zest and ginger. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes.

Remove from heat, stir in honey and let stand 10 minutes.

Line a sieve with cheesecloth and strain concentrate. Discard spices.

Store concentrate in a sealable container in the fridge for up to two weeks.

To make Chai tea combine 1/3 cup of concentrate with warm milk(or soy/nut milk). Concentrate can also be mixed in with a number of recipes. Try mixing it with cookie batter for chai spiced cookies or mix with seltzer water for a chai soda!

Guava and Hibiscus Soda Syrup

Ingredients:
¼ cup dry hibiscus flowers
3 guavas, finely sliced
2 cups cane sugar
½ Tsp. salt
juice from 1 lemon
1 vanilla bean, halved and seeded
1 Tsp. rose water

Directions:
In a large non reactive saucepan combine 12 cups of cold water with ¼ cup of dried hibiscus flowers. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Discard flowers and set liquid aside.

In saucepan combine chopped guava with 3 ½ cups of water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat; simmer for 30 minutes.

In a sieve strain the fruit, pressing the pulp to extract juice. Discard pulp and return liquid to the saucepan.

Over medium high heat, stir in sugar and salt. Bring to a rapid boil stirring often until thickened and dime size bubbles surface to the top.

Carefully add 2 cups of reserved hibiscus tea, lemon juice, rose water, vanilla bean and seeds. Bring liquid to a boil and remove from heat. Let stand for 1 hour.

Store syrup in a sealed bottle in the fridge. Lasts up to 2 weeks.

To make soda: Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour 1 ½ tablespoons of the syrup on top. Fill the glass with fresh seltzer water and stir to combine. 

Coffee Bar Chai 

Ingredients:
2 cups water
4 black tea bags
1/4 cup honey
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cinnamon stick
5 whole cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 pinch ground nutmeg
2 cups milk

(via qualityrecipes)

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Ingredients:
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 quart milk
1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (3 ounces)
7 peppermint sticks; 3 crushed (1/4 cup), 4 left whole
pinch of salt

Directions:
Place cocoa in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk until cocoa has dissolved. Add chocolate chips and crushed peppermint; simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until chocolate and peppermint have melted, 8 to 10 minutes. Bring to a boil and immediately remove from heat. Add salt. Ladle into mugs; serve each with a peppermint stick.

Serves 4

(via qualityrecipes)

Apple Pie Cider

Ingredients:
1 1/4 quarts apple cider
3 tablespoons firmly packed light-brown sugar
7 whole cinnamon sticks, (6 sticks for garnish)
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
Ground cloves
Freshly grated nutmeg
Salt
1/2 cup Calvados, or other brandy (optional)

Directions:
In a medium saucepan, whisk together cider, sugar, spices, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat. Remove from heat; pour in brandy, if desired. Strain into a pitcher; discard solids. Serve in mugs, garnished with cinnamon sticks.

Serves 6

(via qualityrecipes)

Toasted Marshmallow Milkshake

Ingredients:
8-10 large marshmallows
3 large scoops vanilla ice cream or a heaping 1-cup of vanilla ice cream
1/2 cup of milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1tbsp cinnamon 

Directions:
Place marshmallows on  skewer and toast until slightly charred over a gas flame.  If you don’t have skewers or a gas range, you can toast the marshmallows on a sheet tray in the broiler for 2 or 3 minutes.  Keep an eye on the marshmallows as they’re in the oven.  They’re liable to burst into marshmallow flames pretty quick.

Place on a plate to cool slightly.

In a blender mix together ice cream, milk, vanilla extract and toasted marshmallows.  Save one or two toasted marshmallows to top the milkshake(s). Blend well. For a thinner milkshake add more milk. If you’d like it a bit thicker… add more ice cream.

Pour into glasses and top with toasted marshmallows and cinnamon.

Makes 2 small milkshakes

(via imdelicious)