It’s been very hot in Europe– the kind of hot where walking across a piazza in Milan makes gelato non-negotiable. 🍦And honestly? No regrets. Balance is a big part of gut health too. That gelato was perfect after the train journey.
Beautiful courtyard in our hotel in Tirano (Italy)
We flew to Switzerland (to catch the Bernina Express train to Italy) last weekend and spent a bit of time in the airport lounge — and guess what? It wasn’t all beige carbs and mystery meats. I made a really lovely lunch plate with:
apple slaw (red cabbage, apple, a little bite!)
cucumber and potato salad
a couscous dish with grilled veg and dried fruit
a warm vegetable tagine
Yes, there were sandwiches, croissants, crisps, pies and muffins too — and if that’s what you fancy, have a little too. But it was genuinely nice to see a few gut-loving options.
And once at our destination, we were spoilt with so many beautiful dishes, some local and some just yum!
Pan con Tomate (Spanish for Bruschetta)
Mini Travel Tip:
Travel meals won’t always be perfect (yuk 🤢, buffet scrambled eggs not my faves), but you can usually spot a win if you ask. At our hotel in Basel, we asked for a veggie-loaded omelette at breakfast – mushrooms, peppers, greens – and it was so much better than what was out on the hot trays. Just a reminder you’re allowed to ask for what you need.
A 4th of July Detour!
Back at home, when the 4th of July rolled around, I couldn’t face another burger. Instead, I made a big fat sourdough focaccia sandwich packed with crispy-squidgy halloumi, cooling tzatziki, and a drizzle of chili oil. Sounds bonkers, I know — but it really hit the spot. You can catch the video over on YouTube if you fancy making your own.
Sourdough focaccia sandwich with halloumi, tzatziki and chili oil
Quick Question: How did you celebrate the 4th? Any gut-loving dishes on the table? Hit reply and let me know — I love hearing what you’ve been cooking.
Even when you're out of routine, a colorful plate will make you feel like you're looking after your gut– and all of the plants count, don't they, even the spices!
Oh, by the way, let me know if you'd like the sourdough focaccia recipe (spoiler alert, it's so easy)! Or just reply with what you'd like to see me making!
