Power up your meals with pulses this summer

With long summer days and endless sunshine, it's the perfect time to think about adding some extra nutritional goodness to your beef or lamb meal. Pulses, like lentils, chickpeas, beans, and dry peas are an excellent way to boost the health benefits of your summer dishes.

Why pulses are a nutritional powerhouse

Pulses are not only high in plant-based protein, but are also packed with vitamins, and minerals like iron, folate, and magnesium. This makes them a great addition to any meal, especially when paired with the protein and iron found in beef and lamb. To help your body absorb more of the iron from pulses, try adding a source of vitamin C like tomatoes or a homemade citrus dressing to your meal.

Pulses are also loaded with dietary fibre, which supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Their low glycaemic index helps stabilise blood sugar levels, making them a perfect choice for sustained energy throughout the day.

Beyond their nutritional benefits, pulses are incredibly versatile and delicious. From salads and tacos to dips and salsas, they offer a cost-effective way to stretch out a meal and promote nutritious and sustainable living for the whole family.

Here are some delicious ways to enjoy pulses with beef and lamb:

• Mexican barbecued beef steak and black bean salad
• Beetroot, lentil and rump steak salad
• Beef mince salad cups with kumara wedges
• Harissa lamb shoulder with roast pumpkin salad