Some mornings begin with exhaustion. You wake up already weary ,not the kind of tiredness that a splash of cold water or a strong cup of tea can chase away. This tiredness is deeper, harder to name. Your mind feels foggy, tasks that should be simple feel heavy, and when someone asks how you’re doing, you smile and say “fine” because how do you even begin to explain this kind of fatigue?
At Culinary Canvas, we believe food should do more than simply satisfy hunger. It should gently support the body naturally, intentionally. Welcome to Week Two of our Weekly Salad Recipe Series. Last week, we kicked things off with a bowl crafted to support hormone balance, especially for women navigating the subtle transitions of their 30s and beyond.
This week, we’re turning our focus to something nearly everyone can relate to: low energy. If you’ve been feeling constantly drained, mentally foggy, or just not like yourself, this week’s nourishing bowl was made with you in mind.
We weren’t meant to live in a constant state of depletion. But in the whirlwind of deadlines, responsibilities, and daily routines, it’s easy to lose touch with how we really feel. This is your reminder and your invitation to check in with yourself and gently return to strength, one bite at a time.
We forget that energy isn’t something we’re meant to chase, it’s something we cultivate. Slowly. Kindly. With rest. With rhythm. And with food that feeds not just the stomach, but the whole body.
Why Are We Always Tired
Fatigue has become so normal, we often forget it’s not how we’re meant to feel. Sometimes, it’s lack sleep. But more often, tiredness is your body’s quiet signal that it’s not being nourished well.
It could be from:
Skipping meals or relying on sugar for quick fixes
Low iron, protein, or B vitamins
Poor digestion or inflammation
Hormonal changes
Everyday stress that doesn’t let up
Your body isn’t lazy, it’s just under-fueled. What it needs is care, not caffeine. Restoration, not more rushing. And one of the most effective ways to start is through your plate.
The Energy-Boosting Salad
A comforting Nigerian-inspired bowl made to fuel your body, steady your mood, and gently lift your energy without the crash
This bowl is more than a mix of greens and grains. It’s a purposeful plate created for those days when your body feels heavy, your mind feels dull, and your spirit needs a reset.
Every ingredient in this salad plays a role. It’s designed to:
Keep your blood sugar steady (so no energy crashes by midday)
Support healthy red blood cell production (for better oxygen flow)
Provide clean, lasting fuel for your brain and muscles
Ease inflammation that might be slowing you down
Nourish your body with real, whole Nigerian ingredients nothing fancy, just thoughtfully chosen
It’s a bowl that says, “You don’t have to feel this tired all the time. Let’s eat in a way that helps you come back to yourself.”
What’s In The Bowl
- Efo Tete Or Soko (Green leaves)
Rich in iron and folate, these greens help your body produce strong red blood cells and carry oxygen throughout your system.
- Ofada Rice Or Guinea Corn (Dawa)
Whole grains like these release energy slowly, keeping you full and steady instead of spiking and crashing.
- Black-Eyed Beans (Ewa)
Packed with protein and B vitamins, they support metabolism and keep you going through the day.
- Avocado (Pear)
A creamy, heart-healthy fat that feeds your brain and keeps you satisfied.
- Carrots And Cucumber
They add hydration, crunch, and a touch of sweetness while boosting vitamins A and C.
- Pumpkin Seeds Or Groundnut (Ugboguru or Egusi)
Small but mighty, these seeds bring in magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats to keep your nerves calm and focused.
- Boiled Egg or Grilled Chicken (Optional)
If you need more protein, this adds fullness and supports your muscles and hormones.
Zesty Ginger-Palm Oil Dressing
This dressing is more than tasty, it’s functional. It helps digestion, reduces inflammation, and supports circulation.
You’ll need:
1 tablespoon red palm oil
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
Juice of ½ lime or lemon
1 teaspoon honey
Pinch of sea salt
Optional: a dash of dry pepper or uziza
To prepare:
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Add a little warm water if needed to loosen the texture.
How To Build The Bowl
.
Blanch the greens
Lightly cook your efo tete or soko in hot salted water for 1–2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare your base
Cook your ofada rice or guinea corn. Combine with soft black-eyed beans.
Slice the fresh veg
Grate your carrots. Slice cucumber and avocado.
Assemble the bowl
Layer the greens first, then add your rice-bean mix, vegetables, and protein if using.
Sprinkle and drizzle
Top with pumpkin seeds or groundnut, and finish with a generous drizzle of the dressing. Toss gently. Serve fresh.
Why This Salad Supports Real Energy
Each part of this salad was chosen to support your energy naturally:
Leafy greens support strong blood and oxygen delivery
Whole grains and beans keep blood sugar steady
Avocado and seeds provide brain-loving fats
Ginger and palm oil fight inflammation and support digestion
Protein and fiber help you stay full, focused, and balanced
