A new year brings the perfect opportunity to reset after a season of festive indulgence. But who says a New Year detox has to mean bland or uninspiring meals? La Española Olive Oil is here to show how olive oil can elevate your reset with both nourishment and flavour.
Packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and support overall wellbeing, olive oil is an ideal starting point for building healthier cooking habits. And the best bit? You can enjoy every mouthful.
Let’s take a look at how olive oil can turn your New Year detox into a delicious and revitalising start to the year.
Best Foods to Kickstart Your New Year Detox
Jumping into a New Year detox doesn’t have to feel overwhelming — choosing the right foods can make the whole process energising and genuinely enjoyable. By focusing on ingredients that naturally support your body’s cleansing systems, you set yourself up for healthier habits and a refreshed mindset.
Here are some of the best foods to kickstart your reset:
- Leafy greens
- Fresh fruits and berries
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Herbs and spices such as ginger and turmeric
- Extra virgin olive oil
Recipes with Olive Oil and Leafy Greens
An easy way to begin your New Year detox is by increasing your intake of leafy greens.
This Courgette raviolis with spinach and feta cheese is a comforting, easy to make dish — perfect for cosying up on cold winter evenings.
If you want something that gives kale a starring role, try our Kale with Garlic, Chilli, and Serrano Ham. Nutritious and full of flavour, it’s a Spanish-inspired twist that might just change the way you prepare kale for good.
Super Soup to Replenish and Revitalise
Soups are a brilliant approach to January detox cooking. They allow you to combine a variety of fresh ingredients into one simple, satisfying meal.
Take our Chard Vichyssoise with Sun-Dried Tomato Crostini. This silky soup blends leeks, potatoes, and Swiss chard with olive oil instead of cream for a lighter, more refreshing finish. Whether served hot or cold, it pairs beautifully with crunchy crostini topped with a rich sun-dried tomato paste.
Mouthwatering Main Dish with Chicken
If you love chicken dishes, this one deserves a place in your New Year meal rotation.
Our Griddled Lemon and Rosemary Chicken with Butterbean Salad features juicy chicken breasts marinated in lemon, rosemary, smoked paprika, and olive oil before being griddled to a golden finish. Served on a bright butterbean salad with cherry tomatoes and green beans — all tossed in a vibrant sun-dried-tomato-and-lemon dressing — it’s fresh, flavourful, and packed with nourishing ingredients.
Super Smoothies
Increasing your fruit intake is an excellent way to support your system in the New Year. Smoothies make this easy — quick to prepare, naturally sweet, and endlessly adaptable.
You can boost their nutritional value even further by adding a splash of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Curious how? Take a look at our 5 Super-Powered Juice and Smoothie Recipes.
Detox Desserts
Yes, really — desserts can be adapted to include detox-friendly ingredients.
Try our Blueberry Bread and see for yourself. Made with antioxidant-rich blueberries and La Española Olive Oil, it offers a mild, nutritious alternative to butter or margarine without compromising on flavour.
Olive Oil and Detox: Frequently Asked Questions
Can olive oil actually detox the body?
High-quality extra virgin olive oil can support your body’s natural detox processes by reducing inflammation and aiding digestion.
What type of olive oil is best for detox?
Extra Virgin Olive Oil is ideal, as it contains the highest levels of antioxidants and polyphenols.
Can olive oil help flush out toxins during a cleanse?
Olive oil doesn’t “flush out” toxins, but it does promote healthy bile flow and supports nutrient absorption, making it a valuable addition to a balanced, whole-food detox.
Tips for Staying the Course with Your New Year Detox
Sticking with a detox is far easier when you focus on simple, sustainable habits. Aim for consistency rather than perfection, and set yourself up with an environment that encourages healthier choices.
Here are a few tips to keep you on track:
- Plan meals and snacks so you’re not tempted by impulse choices.
- Drink plenty of water or herbal tea to support digestion and energy.
- Keep healthy ingredients visible and ready to use.
- Track your wins — small steps build momentum.
- Prioritise sleep and gentle exercise to keep body and mind balanced.
For more recipe inspiration and culinary advice, be sure to visit our blog.