Two bowls of peanut prawns with a dip and lime wedges on the side

After the indulgence and richness of Christmas, many of us find ourselves yearning for food that will revive our palates and reset our appetites. The days between Christmas and New Year are an ideal time to embrace vibrant, zingy dishes packed with fresh flavours, lively textures and a lighter touch. Think citrus notes, punchy dressings and crisp salads; meals that awaken the senses and bring a much-needed brightness to the table.

Discover our best recipes for lunches and dinners that are bursting with flavour, full of crunch and guaranteed to lift the spirits.

See our ultimate collection of dinner recipes, vegetarian recipes and vegan meals for more exciting ideas to try.

16 vibrant, fresh and zingy meals for between Christmas and New Year

Clementine and bream crudo

Thin slices of fresh bream are dressed with clementine juice, olive oil and sea salt, then topped with capers and microgreens. This effortless, no-cook dish is the ultimate palate cleanser after days of heavy eating.

A single serving of bream crudo with vegetables on the side

Miso-roasted cauliflower, avocado and lentil salad

Roasted cauliflower is tossed in a miso and lime dressing, then paired with creamy avocado, pickled onions and earthy lentils. This salad is packed with fibre, flavour and texture — a nourishing bowl that feels as good as it tastes.

Crispy plaice with Thai-style carrot salad

Strips of crispy seasoned plaice are served alongside a vibrant carrot and green bean salad, with mint and coriander for a fresh, herby finish.

Two plates of crispy plaice with salad on the side

Spicy prawn and peanut rice salad

Toss juicy prawns, shredded veg and herbs in a punchy peanut dressing to make a salad that's fresh, spicy and zingy. This effortless rice-based salad can be easily doubled or tripled, too.

Two bowls of peanut prawns with dip on the side

Healthy turkey stir-fry

Sauerkraut adds a delicious tang to this simple stir-fry, made with turkey mince. Balancing earthy broccoli and mushrooms with zingy fresh ginger, the dish is coated in a sweet and salty sauce that gives it a kick.

Fried Rice with Broccoli and Mushrooms in a Wok

Kimchi eggs

Kimchi is a great way to keep friendly gut bacteria in check over the Twixmas period. Try these punchy fried eggs for a levelled-up breakfast or brunch, served on top of toasted rye bread.

Two plates of kimchi-fried eggs with side dishes next to them

Leftover turkey ramen noodles

Christmas turkey leftovers are transformed into a cosy bowl of ramen, complete with ginger-spiked broth, thick noodles and fresh coriander. Ginger soothes digestive discomfort and relieves nausea.

A white bowl filled with ramen noodles with chopsticks on top

Umami chicken soup with coriander chilli oil

Divide this umami-rich soup between bowls, then drizzle over a herby chilli oil alongside lime wedges to squeeze over. Use up any leftover turkey meat instead of poaching the chicken, if you prefer. Simply shred and stir in at the end until piping hot.

Two bowls of chicken soup on a set table

Hot-smoked salmon salad with chive buttermilk dressing

Flakes of hot-smoked salmon are served over a crisp, crunchy salad and drizzled with a tangy chive and buttermilk dressing. The freshness of the herbs and the acidity of the buttermilk lift the whole plate.

Fig, mozzarella and serrano ham salad

Juicy figs, creamy mozzarella and salty serrano ham are layered with peppery rocket to make a salad that's vibrant, light and bursting with contrasting textures.

Figs, mozzarella, and serrano ham salad on a plate

Ham, pickled pear and blue cheese salad

Transform leftover ham into a punchy salad with tangy pickled pears and creamy blue cheese. A scattering of walnuts adds crunch, making this a satisfyingly fresh lunch that cuts through festive richness.

Catalan roast chicken, potato and pepper salad

This Spanish-inspired salad features roast chicken, potatoes and sweet peppers, all tossed in a smoked paprika dressing. It’s light yet filling, with plenty of flavour from sweet smoked paprika.

Catalan Chicken Recipe With Potato and Pepper Salad

Parsley and pomegranate salad

A vibrant plate of parsley and rocket leaves tossed with ruby-red pomegranate seeds, finished with a sharp citrus dressing. The combination is fresh, crunchy and wonderfully palate-cleansing.

A round white serving plate of green leaves and red pomegranate seeds, sat on a folded piece of white linen

Winter panzanella

A wintry take on the classic Italian salad, featuring chunks of sourdough, orange segments and blue cheese. Finished with a punchy vinaigrette, this dish is full of flavour and texture.

A Citrus, beetroot and blue cheese panzanella salad on a brown bowl with a green background

Chargrilled chicken chimichurri salad

Juicy chargrilled chicken is sliced and served with a lively chimichurri sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic and chilli. Serve over mixed leaves for a dinner that’s big on flavour but light on heaviness.

Crispy plaice with Thai-style carrot salad

Serve strips of crispy seasoned plaice with a Thai-inspired salad of crunchy carrots, cherry tomatoes and green beans. Finish with fresh mint and coriander for a colourful, flavour-packed meal for two.