Certain foods are called superfoods for a reason. They are high in vitamins, antioxidants, Omega-3, help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer, and make you feel better.
They even give you an energy boost and make your skin look younger. But as much as we know they are really good for us, incorporating these goodness-filled foods into our daily diet can sometimes seem like a chore.
Make it easy with one of our selected healthy recipes containing one of five superfood ingredients.
Berries
Blueberries are high in antioxidants, fibre, vitamin C and flavonoids, so including berries in your diet is a simple way to be healthier. Try this blueberry-filled recipe as a delicious breakfast or sweet dessert: Caramel poached blueberries with crème fraiche
Quinoa
It's already a favourite in the super trim celebrity world with actresses Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow declaring to be fans. These tiny grains of pseudo-cereal are low in carbs and packed with protein, containing all nine essential amino acids which contribute to cell renewal. Cooked like rice – but even easier and quicker – quinoa's light and fluffy texture exudes a mild nutty flavour adding a gluten-free and goodness-loaded richness to your meal. Use quinoa instead of rice in this risotto recipe: Risotto of Quinoa, with butternut squash, woodland mushrooms
Spinach
Teeming with important nutrients, spinach contains vitamins A, C and K – as well as fibre, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium and vitamin E. It's also your skin's best friend as it's extremely rich in antioxidants – a great defence against wrinkles and fine lines and a step towards younger, healthier-looking skin.
Incorporate a superfood into a light lunch with this Chicken, spinach and feta saladSalmon Not only a delicious fish, salmon is a quick route to enjoying Omega-3, the essential fats which give fish its reputation as "brain food", and contains powerful anti-inflammatories. Wild salmon is recommended, as well as eating two portions per week Top up your Omega-3 with Salmon with sticky chilli sauce
Asparagus
Naturally low in calories, asparagus is a nutrient-dense food containing vitamin A and vitamin C – which give you an immunity boost – as well as vitamins B1 and B2 and folic acid. Boost your immunity system this winter with Jersey Royals with pancetta and asparagus
