My oven and stove decided to stop functioning this week. I don't like cooking in the microwave and only use it for defrosting food. My dilemma was how to eat healthy, ensure I don't gain weight and avoid buying take-aways or ready-made meals for the microwave.

Thankfully I'd frozen more than enough homemade soup. The soup is low-fat, full of fresh vegetables and great for the waist line. Last night I made bruschetta topped with chopped tomatoes, cucumber, chickpeas, garlic, green peppers, celery, balsamic vinegar and olive oil. This is also a great summer meal which is high in fibre, antioxidants and low in fat.

It's the rainy season in KwaZulu-Natal so it is a bit difficult to have a braai every night, but if the weather is clear this evening, my menu will be: grilled brinjals, grilled chicken, baked potato on the grill and leftover cucumber and tomato salad from last night.

Essentially the whole aim of this blog is to show everyone that even if you don't have the cooking tools available to you, it doesn't mean it has to destroy your weight-loss plans and your budget. Use what you have in your cupboards and fridge to whip up a healthy meal in seconds. Don't go for the easy route and order a take-away.

The key essential ingredients to have at home to ensure you can always quickly create a low-fat, scrumptious meal are: frozen homemade soup, fresh vegetables, tinned beans, and tinned fish.