There’s no better way to say “thank you” than with a meal made from the heart—and from ingredients grown close to home. This Mother’s Day, skip the reservation rush and treat Mom to a quick, delicious, and love-filled three-course meal featuring fresh, local produce and pantry staples. Whether you're in a cosy kitchen or cooking with kids, this simple yet elegant menu brings out the best of the season with minimal fuss and maximum flavour.
Starter——————————————————————–
Garden Pea & Mint Soup
Duration: 15 Minutes
Fresh, light, and packed with spring flavour, this vibrant soup is the perfect way to start the celebration.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 cups peas
3 cups vegetable broth
A handful of fresh mint leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
A swirl of plain yogurt (optional)
Method
In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft (about 5 minutes).
Add peas and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Stir in mint and blend until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
Season to taste and serve with a swirl of cream or yogurt.
Local Tip: Use fresh mint from your herb garden or local farmers market for extra aroma and flavour.
Main————————————————————————————-
Lemon-Herb Chicken with Roasted Veggie Medley
Duration: 25 Minutes
This one-pan wonder pairs juicy, zesty chicken with colourful, roasted vegetables for a balanced and beautiful main.
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried or fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chopped local seasonal veggies (e.g. onion, carrots, potatoes, baby marrow, robot peppers)
Method
Preheat oven to 200°C.
In a bowl, toss chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, herbs, salt, and pepper.
Spread chopped vegetables on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil, and place chicken on top.
Roast for 20–25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are tender.
Dessert————————————————————————–
No Bake Strawberry & Cream Shortcake Jars
Duration: 10 Minutes
A sweet, no-fuss dessert that layers local strawberries, whipped cream, and crumbled biscuits in a charming jar.
Ingredients:
1 cup local strawberries, sliced
1 tablespoon honey
1 cup whipped cream
2 shortbread biscuits, crumbled
Method
Toss strawberries with honey and let sit for 5 minutes.
In small jars or glasses, layer crumbled biscuits, strawberries, and whipped cream.
Repeat layers and finish with a strawberry on top.
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