15 Ayurveda Recipes for a Healthy Lifestyle

Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India that emphasizes balance, health, and well-being through diet and lifestyle choices. Cooking with Ayurvedic recipes allows you to nourish your body while promoting harmony within your mind and spirit. These recipes often focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients that align with your unique body type, making them both delicious and beneficial.

By exploring Ayurvedic cooking, you can discover a variety of meals that not only taste great but also support your digestive health and overall wellness. With its rich culinary traditions, Ayurveda offers you a path to enjoy satisfying and wholesome dishes, making healthy eating an enjoyable experience.

1) Curried Lentils and Coconut Rice

Curried lentils and coconut rice is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to your meal. The combination of lentils and rice provides a good source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice.

The dish features flavorful spices like turmeric and cumin, which enhance the taste and aroma. Coconut adds creaminess and natural sweetness, making each bite delightful.

You can serve this dish with roasted carrots for extra nutrition and flavor. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils (any variety)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup rice (brown or white)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water.
2. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Add curry spices, stirring for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Cook rice according to package instructions.
7. Mix coconut milk into lentils and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Serve lentils over rice and top with roasted carrots. Enjoy!

2) Lemon Coriander Soup

Lemon coriander soup is a light and refreshing dish that is perfect for any time of year. It combines fresh flavors of lemon and coriander, making it a delightful choice for a healthy meal.

You’ll need simple ingredients like lemon juice, fresh coriander leaves, and vegetable stock. This soup is easy to prepare and great as an appetizer or a main dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 medium spring onion bulb, chopped
• 1-inch piece of ginger, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons chickpea flour
• 4 ½ cups vegetable stock
• ¼ small cabbage, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add spring onion and ginger; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in chickpea flour and cook for a minute.
4. Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a boil.
5. Add cabbage and simmer until tender.
6. Remove from heat and mix in lemon juice and coriander before serving.

3) Red Lentil Lemongrass Soup

This Red Lentil Lemongrass Soup is perfect for a cozy meal. It’s warm, nutritious, and easy to prepare. The combination of red lentils and lemongrass creates a delicious flavor.

You’ll start by making lemongrass paste. Blend sunflower oil, onion, ginger, and lemongrass until smooth. This gives the soup a rich base.

Next, heat some oil in a pot over medium-low heat. Add the lemongrass paste and sauté for a few minutes. Then, include your lentils and water, bringing the mixture to a boil.

Let it simmer until the lentils are soft. You can adjust the thickness by adding more water if needed.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 2-3 stalks lemongrass
• 2 tablespoons sunflower oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 inch ginger, peeled
• 4 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Blend sunflower oil, onion, ginger, and lemongrass into a paste.
2. Heat oil in a pot over medium-low heat.
3. Add the lemongrass paste and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in red lentils and water.
5. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer until lentils are soft (about 15-20 minutes).

4) Classic Pesto

Classic pesto is a simple, flavorful sauce you can use on pasta, sandwiches, or as a dip. It’s made with fresh ingredients that pack a punch.

To make your pesto, gather fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and extra virgin olive oil. Each ingredient brings a unique taste and health benefits.

You’ll want to blend everything together until smooth. You can adjust the oil to get your desired consistency.

Pesto can last for weeks in the fridge, so feel free to make a large batch!

Ingredients

• 1 bunch fresh basil
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Place basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, and garlic in a food processor.
2. Blend until coarsely chopped.
3. With the processor running, slowly add olive oil until smooth.
4. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

5) Scallion Mint Pesto

Scallion mint pesto is a refreshing twist on the classic pesto recipe. The combination of scallions and mint gives it a bright flavor that can elevate many dishes.

You can use this pesto on pasta, sandwiches, or even as a dip for veggies. It takes just a few simple steps to make.

For best results, keep your pesto in an airtight container in the fridge for about a week. If you want to store it longer, freeze it in smaller portions.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh scallions, chopped
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/2 cup nuts (like pine nuts or walnuts)
• 1/2 cup grated cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine scallions, mint, and nuts.
2. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Gradually add olive oil while processing until smooth.
4. Stir in cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.

6) Pumpkin Seed Pesto

Pumpkin seed pesto is a delicious alternative to traditional pesto. It has a nutty flavor and is lighter than those made with pine nuts. You can use it in many ways, like on pasta, fish, or even in soups.

This pesto is made with pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas. These seeds are packed with nutrients and can help balance your health. You’ll find that they add a nice texture and flavor to the dish.

You can easily prepare this recipe at home in just a few simple steps. It’s a great way to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a fresh herb-based sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Cooking Instructions:

1. Toast the pumpkin seeds in a pan until golden.
2. In a food processor, combine pumpkin seeds, basil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

7) Grain-based Ayurvedic Salad

A grain-based Ayurvedic salad is a nutritious and tasty way to incorporate whole grains into your meals. You can use grains like quinoa, bulgur, or barley for their energy-boosting benefits.

These salads often include fresh herbs and spices to enhance flavor while aligning with Ayurvedic principles. Ingredients like cucumber, tomatoes, and leafy greens add freshness and crunch.

To make a simple bulgur wheat salad, combine cooked bulgur with diced veggies, fresh herbs, and a dress of lemon juice and olive oil. It’s light yet satisfying, perfect for a healthy lunch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked bulgur wheat
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 1 tomato, diced
• ½ cup parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook bulgur wheat according to package instructions.
2. Once cooled, combine bulgur with diced cucumber and tomato.
3. Add parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice.
4. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.

8) Vegetable Ayurvedic Stew

Vegetable Ayurvedic Stew is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. It’s packed with nutrients and helps balance your body according to Ayurvedic principles.

You can use a variety of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and turnips. Adding spices like fennel and black pepper not only enhances the flavor but also supports digestion.

Start by warming ghee in a pot. Add your chosen spices and let them sizzle. Then, toss in the chopped vegetables and cover with water.

Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender. For extra flavor, sprinkle some salt and fresh cilantro before serving.

Ingredients

• 4-5 cups of water
• 2-3 cups assorted vegetables (carrots, potatoes, turnips)
• 1-2 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp fennel seeds
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat ghee in a large pot.
2. Add fennel seeds and black pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add the chopped vegetables.
4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Season with salt and garnish with cilantro.

9) Ayurvedic Spiced Tea

Ayurvedic Spiced Tea is a warm and fragrant drink that supports your overall health. This tea balances your body’s energies, helping with digestion and boosting your immune system.

You can prepare this delightful tea using simple ingredients you may already have at home. Many of the spices used also offer health benefits, making it a great addition to your routine.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) water
• 1 teaspoon black tea
• 1 small piece of ginger, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom
• Honey or jaggery (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. First, boil water in a saucepan over medium heat (around 200°F or 93°C).
2. Add sliced ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. After that, add black tea and allow it to steep for 2-3 minutes.
4. Then, strain into a cup and sweeten with honey or jaggery if desired. Enjoy!

10) Kapha-Balancing Soup

A warm Kapha-balancing soup can help lift your spirits and energize your body. This soup is made with fresh ingredients that are light and warming, perfect for balancing Kapha dosha.

To make this soup, you will need ingredients like cauliflower, turmeric, ginger, and black pepper. These ingredients support digestion and help reduce the heaviness associated with Kapha.

Ingredients

• 7 cups cauliflower, chopped
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• Salt to taste
• Water as needed

Cooking Instructions

1. Start by heating ghee in a large saucepan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Then, add turmeric, black pepper, and ginger. Sizzle for 20 seconds.
3. After that, add the chopped cauliflower and enough water to cover.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Finally, blend until smooth and enjoy!

11) Vata-Reducing Kitchari

Vata-reducing kitchari is a comforting Ayurvedic dish. It combines basmati rice, split mung beans, and warm spices. This meal is great for balancing Vata, especially during cooler months.

You can make kitchari in various ways, adding vegetables and spices to suit your taste. It’s not only nutritious but also easy to digest.

For a simple recipe, you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1/2 cup split mung beans
• 6 cups water
• 2 tbsp ghee (or oil)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. First, rinse the rice and mung beans until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, heat the ghee over medium heat.
3. Then, add cumin seeds and cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in rice, mung beans, and spices.
5. Pour in water and add salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
7. Cook for 30-40 minutes until soft, adding more water if needed.

12) Pitta-Pacifying Smoothie

A Pitta-pacifying smoothie is perfect for cooling your body on hot days. This refreshing drink combines soothing ingredients that can help reduce Pitta energy.

Start with 3 cups of cantaloupe for natural sweetness. Add 1/2 cucumber for extra hydration and a handful of fresh mint for flavor. You can also include 1 cup of coconut water to keep it light and refreshing.

Blend all the ingredients until smooth. Serve it chilled for a delightful treat that not only tastes great but also helps keep your Pitta in balance.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cantaloupe
• 1/2 cucumber
• 3 sprigs fresh mint
• 1 cup coconut water

Cooking Instructions

1. Start by chopping the cantaloupe and cucumber into smaller pieces.
2. Then, add all ingredients into a blender.
3. Blend until smooth.
4. Pour into a glass and enjoy!

13) Spiced Quinoa Pilaf

This Spiced Quinoa Pilaf is a nutritious and tasty dish that is perfect for any meal. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Quinoa is light and rich in protein, making it a great base for this recipe.

You will need spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and cumin to give it that warm taste. Toss in some peas for color and added nutrients. This dish cooks in about 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight dinner option.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 teaspoon cardamom
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
2. Next, heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
3. Then, add spices and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add quinoa and broth. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Stir in peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Finally, fluff with a fork and serve warm.

14) Herb-Infused Lentil Curry

This Herb-Infused Lentil Curry is a delicious way to enjoy lentils packed with flavors and nutrition. It combines fresh herbs with hearty lentils for a warm dish.

You’ll need basic ingredients like red lentils, onions, and spices. Adding herbs like cilantro or parsley enhances the taste and aroma.

Start by heating oil in a pot over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
Then, sauté onions until golden.
Next, add garlic, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 2 minutes.
After that, stir in lentils and water.
Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, until lentils are soft.
Finally, add salt and fresh herbs before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 4 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Sauté onions until golden.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Stir in lentils and water.
5. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, until lentils are soft.
6. Add salt and fresh herbs before serving.

15) Coconut Milk Barley Porridge

Coconut milk barley porridge is a creamy and comforting breakfast option. It combines the goodness of barley with rich coconut flavors. This dish is easy to prepare and is perfect for a cozy morning.

Start by cooking barley according to package instructions. Use water or a mix of coconut milk and water for a delightful taste. Once the barley is fluffy, stir in more coconut milk for creaminess.

You can add sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Top it with fruits, nuts, or seeds to enhance your meal. Feel free to add spices such as cinnamon for extra warmth.

Ingredients

• 1 cup barley
• 2 cups coconut milk (plus more for serving)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• Fresh fruits (e.g., bananas, berries)
• Nuts or seeds (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the barley under cold water.
2. Cook the barley according to the package directions.
3. In the last few minutes of cooking, add coconut milk.
4. Serve warm, topped with honey and fruits.