Cyprus is an ideal destination for a wellbeing holiday, with one of the biggest highlights being its incredibly healthy cuisine. Don’t be misled by the touristy kebabs and meat-heavy options you might see at some restaurants. In reality, Cypriots regularly enjoy a variety of plant-based dishes as a staple of their diet. One of my personal favourites, which I often make at home, is a warming and nourishing meal packed with plant-based protein and rich in antioxidants and minerals from the fresh vegetables and olive oil.
Louvi (Black-Eyed Peas with Swiss Chard and Courgettes)
Ingredients:
1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight in cold water
1 courgette
1 bunch of Swiss chard (or spinach), chopped
1 onion, chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (plus extra lemon wedges for serving)
Salt and pepper to taste
Water for boiling
Instructions:
Prepare the black-eyed peas: Rinse the soaked black-eyed peas in a colander. Place them in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are tender but not mushy. 15 minutes before they are ready add the courgette cut into large chunks.
Sauté the other vegetables: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion softens and becomes translucent (about 5 minutes).
Add the greens: Stir in the chopped Swiss chard (or spinach) and cook for a few minutes until the greens begin to wilt.
Combine the peas and season: Add the cooked black-eyed peas to the pan with the greens. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes to combine the flavours. Season with salt, pepper, and a generous squeeze of lemon juice.
Serve: Serve the louvi warm with extra lemon wedges on the side for squeezing and with black or green olives on the side.
I sometimes add some anchovies on the top to boost my omega 3 fatty acids and to benefit my brain and heart health.
Enjoy! And let me know what you think if you try it.
Love
Stella
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