The Brightside - A Meal made for Busy Mamas (your wellness matters)
RAD MAMA WELLNESS
A Recipe and Interview with Naturopath Suzie Weber
At Banabae we’re always inspired by people who bring a little more thoughtfulness and intention into everyday family life. Local Illawarra naturopath Suzie Weber is one of those people.
Suzie lives in Woonona with her husband and their three rad kids. Like many families on the South Coast, their days are filled with beach swims, garden pottering, messy kitchens and kids orbiting around dinner prep.
Suzie’s work as a naturopath has grown alongside motherhood. After experiencing postnatal depletion herself, she became deeply passionate about supporting mothers who are often running on empty and trying to do it all.
Her philosophy is refreshingly realistic: wellness doesn’t have to be complicated, it should fit gently into the rhythms of real family life. By focusing on small, practical habits that help families feel nourished, grounded and supported.
So when we asked her to share a favourite recipe for our Brightside series on Rad Mama Wellness, she delivered something that perfectly reflects that philosophy: simple ingredients, balanced nourishment, and something the whole family can enjoy.
Turkey, Dill & Feta Meatballs with Lemon Herb Quinoa & Tzatziki
Packed with nutrition for busy mamas.
INGREDIENTS:
Quinoa Salad
• 1 ¼ cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
• Zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
• 1 bunch parsley finely chopped (1 cup)
• 2 spring onions, finely sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil • Salt & Pepper to taste
Meatballs
• 500g Turkey mince (you can also use chicken mince)
• 1 cup grated carrot
• 3/4 cup feta, crumbled
• 1/3 cup chopped dill
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup cooked quinoa (take this portion from the quinoa cooked for the salad)
• Salt & pepper to season Simple
Tzatziki
• 1 small cucumber, grated & juice squeezed out.
• 1 cup Greek yoghurt
• 2 tbsp dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Good pinch of salt
METHOD:
Rinse the quinoa well under cold water. Cook according to instructions, then set aside to drain well.
Remove ½ cup to use for the meatballs.
Meatballs:
Combine all meatball ingredients in a bowl, use your hands to mix until just combined – don’t overwork the mixture. Roll into balls using your hands and place in the fridge to chill for 15 minutes whilst you make the salad and dip.
You can cook the meatballs in the oven or a pan:
Oven: Preheat oven to 180 degrees. Place on tray and bake until cooked through and lightly golden, approx. 20 minutes. Pan: Cook in batches, turning to brown on all sides until cooked through
Tzatziki:
Stir all ingredients together, taste and adjust if more lemon or salt are needed.
Quinoa salad:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl and gently stir until combined.
Mum-friendly tips:
Make a double batch of meatballs and freeze for another meal.
Skip the tzatziki and buy it to save time. •
Use breadcrumbs instead of quinoa to make the meatballs, if you aren’t making the rest of the meal.
This makes a perfect mum-lunch, it will feed you for a few days. Or make it for the whole family for a tasty dinner.
Quick-fire Questions with Suzie
What ingredients are always on rotation in your kitchen?
Eggs are a staple for me—they’re so versatile, showing up in breakfasts, baking, and quick dinners like frittatas. Quinoa salads are another weekly go-to for easy lunches, usually topped with herbs, veggies, and a protein like fish or feta.
What does nourishment look like in your home during a normal messy week?
Since becoming a mum, I’ve learned to simplify. Sleep, fresh air, and time outdoors are usually my first focus when family life starts to feel a little frazzled. For food, I aim for simple meals with a good source of protein to help stabilise energy and cut down on constant snack requests from growing kids.
How has motherhood shaped the way you support clients?
Becoming a mum showed me just how many women are already running at full capacity. My approach now focuses on realistic changes that support mothers without adding more pressure or guilt to their already busy lives.
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