Culinary Delights by the Cove: Looking for a winter pick-me-up? Check out these delicious recipes!

I believe I've finally transitioned out of my holiday baking phase and am returning to a more grounded routine. Kind of. Over the coming weeks, I intend to infuse my column (and my personal life) with a variety of healthier options, including vegan, gluten-free, and vegetarian recipes.

No need to fret; I won’t entirely exclude the more indulgent treats. I’m simply aiming for a nice equilibrium to help us all navigate the winter months.

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Let's start this plan with a Chana Masala recipe that is not only simple, fast, and budget-friendly but also deserves a regular spot in your weekly meals.

I typically enjoy this mixture served atop basmati rice or alongside naan, but it’s equally tasty on its own, placed in roasted acorn squash halves or drizzled over baked potatoes.

While the guidelines suggest cooking the chana for only 10 minutes, I view that as the quick method. The flavor truly enhances if you let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, preparing it in the morning or even a day prior gives the spices ample time to meld beautifully with the chickpeas and sauce.

Don't be daunted by the variety of spices in these recipes. The same goes for the nutritional yeast and nuts. You can find all these ingredients at your nearby health food store, where they are available in bulk. Just buy the quantities you require.

Here's a final piece of advice: This recipe comes together in a flash, so be sure to measure out all the spices and do your chopping before you heat up the stove.

Whether you find it surprising or not, these roasted vegetables have become a popular after-school treat for the teenagers I know. They also pair wonderfully with the masala main course.

Spicy Glazed Walnuts make for an excellent snack and serve as a fantastic “brain food” whenever you need a boost. Just a handful offers the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and indulgence without the guilt. Plus, they make a delightful gift for a friend, so consider preparing a double batch!

Chana masala

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 teaspoons of cumin seeds
• 1 diced yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger
• 1 green serrano chili pepper, deseeded if desired, and finely chopped
• 1.5 teas