Healthy recipes for the festive season by Nadia Damaso - Cal Reiet

Two festive recipes by Nadia Damaso

The festive season is all about bringing people together, sharing delicious meals, and celebrating the joy of the holidays. Renowned Swiss chef and cookbook author, Nadia Damaso, is known for her wholesome and creative approach to food that nourishes the body and soul. With a philosophy rooted in mindful eating and connection, Nadia has inspired countless people to embrace the beauty of cooking with love and intention. Below, we are excited to share two festive recipes crafted by Nadia, perfect for the holiday season.

Healthy recipe – Oven pancakes with roasted pears & thyme

These warm and comforting pancakes are a modern twist on traditional ‘Lebkuchen’ flavors. Perfect for cozy mornings or as a special treat, the addition of roasted pears and a hint of thyme elevates this recipe to something truly magical.

Ingredients

  • 100 g rolled oats
  • 1 ripe banana
  • 140 ml oat milk
  • 1.5 tbsp maple syrup
  • 2 tsp Lebkuchen spice mix (approx. 10 g)
  • 1/4 tsp ground vanilla
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 60 g pecans
  • 1 tsp baking powder
For the topping
  • 2-4 small pears
  • A drizzle of maple syrup
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Fresh thyme
  • Coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt of your choice
  • Toasted nuts or crunchy granola

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Mix all ingredients except the pecans and baking powder in a blender until smooth. Chop the pecans, add them along with the baking powder, and mix gently.
Spoon the mixture into evenly sized portions on the baking tray (about 8-10 pancakes). Bake for 24-28 minutes or until golden brown.
While the pancakes bake, roast the pears. Slice them and coat with maple syrup and cinnamon, then roast them in a pan over medium heat.
Serve the pancakes with yogurt, roasted pears, a sprinkle of thyme, and your choice of toasted nuts or granola. Enjoy warm!


Healthy recipe – Orange & spiced Christmas smoothie

This festive smoothie is a refreshing yet indulgent drink that perfectly balances the flavors of orange and warming spices. Ideal for a cozy winter morning or as a light treat during the holidays.

Ingredients

  • 100 ml freshly squeezed orange juice + grated orange zest
  • 200 ml oat milk
  • 2-3 Medjool dates
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp cardamom
  • A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
  • 1 tbsp cashew or almond butter
  • 1 ripe frozen banana
  • A pinch of salt

Preparation

Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Pour into one or two glasses and garnish with toasted nuts or granola if desired.
Enjoy this festive drink as a wholesome and flavorful treat.


Join Nadia Damaso at Cal Reiet in March 2025

In March 2025, Nadia Damaso will host a transformative retreat at the serene Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat in Mallorca. This exclusive experience, organized in collaboration with Soul Scape Retreats, is designed to nourish your body, mind, and soul. Participants will enjoy yoga, mindfulness practices, and hands-on workshops with Nadia herself, focusing on healthy and mindful living.

Discover more about this unique opportunity to reconnect with yourself and nature here.

The holiday season is a time to indulge, but also to connect with the deeper meaning of togetherness and well-being. These recipes by Nadia Damaso and her upcoming retreat at Cal Reiet are perfect reminders of how food and mindfulness go hand in hand.