The Post-Holiday Slump

The holidays are over, the guests have all gone home, and (most of) the leftovers have disappeared from the fridge. And if you’re one of the brave souls who’s made a new year’s resolution to eat right and get more exercise, this can be a tough time of year. It’s the post-holiday slump, when even the most creative and adventurous of cooks run into food-fatigue.

So what’s a guy or gal to do when the nights are long and dark, there’s a dinner to be made, and inspiration has fallen by the wayside?

Seek your muse among the produce that comes into its own during the bleak winter months.

Pomegranate – It’s not local, but it’s really good for you and looks like little jewels when you decorate your salad with the crunchy little seeds.

Beets – Now these you can get from right here in your own back yard and they’re just stellar roasted until their natural sweetness comes through. Toss with a little balsamic vinegar for some tang to cut the sweet.

Kale – Apparently this is some sort of miracle food, and durnit if it ain’t tasty as well. But have you noticed that people are a little weird about it? Just me?

So, where to get all these tasty treats?

On Saturdays, the Vancouver Winter Farmer’s Market is on from 10 am to 2 pm at Nat Bailey Stadium. Not only is hitting the Farmer’s Market a fabulous way to get your fruits and veggies, it’s a social event where you get to chat with growers and producers, not to mention just leave the house to attend something other than a holiday party.

What’s your favourite food to help beat the winter blahs?