So, here we are.  It’s August and it’s not hot and given that the summer seems to have come to an abrupt end (at least for this weekend) my thoughts are turning to the winter and immunity.   Immunity is always important but even more so now.  There are many ingredients that are useful in a diet that supports a healthy immune system and foods that are rich in Vitamin A are one of them.  The plant form of Vitamin A is known as betacarotene and is found in fruit and vegetables, principally, but not exclusively, those that are orange/red/yellow in colour.  So think of squash, pumpkin, peppers, oranges, apricots ….  It’s also found in cod liver oil, eggs and dairy products.

This recipe includes butternut squash, a versatile vegetable that is rich in betacarotene.  Roasting butternut squash is super easy (you don’t actually have to peel it – the skin softens on roasting and is perfectly edible).  Make it into a soup, or add it to stews and salads.  It’s also a great addition in an omelette.

SERVES 2

INGREDIENTS

MARINADE
3 tbsp pomegranate molasses
1 1/2 tbsp tamari/soy sauce
1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
juice of half a lemon
DRESSING
2 tbsp pomegranate molasses
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 clove crushed garlic
4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
SALAD
Skinless and boneless chicken thighs
400g butternut squash, peeled and cubed
100g rocket
100g pomegranate seeds
 

Mix together the marinade ingredients.  Pour over the chicken thighs and leave for a couple of hours or overnight. Pre heat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6.  Put the butternut squash in one roasting tray and drizzle with olive oil and mix well. Remove the chicken from its marinade and place in another roasting tray.  Place both trays in the oven for 35 minutes or until the squash is soft when a knife is inserted and the chicken is cooked through.   Meanwhile, mix together the dressing ingredients. Mix the rocket with the cooked butternut squash and pomegranate seeds, drizzle with a little dressing. Place the cooked chicken on top, drizzle over a little more dressing and pomegranate seeds.