The Indian festive season has begun, and kitchens all over the country have been buzzing with activity. Mine is no different. I’ve spent the past few days planning and re-planning our menus. I remember a time, not too long ago when Hubby Dear and I would throw lavish Diwali parties. We’d have an extensive menu – which often included this delicious low-fat version of Paneer Methi Malai Matar, which would have me begin the cooking process a day or two in advance. Those were the days! For the last few years however, we’ve both seem to have wanted to slow down a bit during the holidays. It’s not that we do not make a big deal about celebrating, we just prefer to have it low-key with family and some of our closest friends. But does this mean we skimp on the food? Of course not! I could never live with myself if I did. The cooking still continues in full swing. We generally tend to have a very light breakfast, and I cook up a storm for our Diwali lunch – which usually includes this Paneer Methi Malai devoid of all the extra unneeded cream. Dinner will typically vary between different kinds of snacky or finger food while we all sit down to a competitive game of cards. Last year I went a bit nuts in trying to create a buffet of various Indian street food. Although I turned into a headless chicken trying to get a dozen things on the table at the same time, each piping hot and ready to serve, it sure was fun experience. On the menu, we had Samosas, Corn Chaat, Dal Kachoris with Chana Masala, Ragda Tikkis and Dahi Puris to simply name a few. (Yes, there was much more than this on our table. Much, much more.) This year, I decided to change things up a bit. Instead of having everyone huddled around the buffet table, I want us all to sit down to a nice, homely, festive family meal. So on our Diwali menu this year will be: Paneer Methi Malai Matar with no malai as usual (recipe follows), Dal Makhani, Bharwaan Bhindi, Baingan Patiala, Jeera Pulao, Garlic Naan, Beetroot Raita and Salad. Simple, wholesome, and absolutely delicious! So… what’s on your Diwali menu this year? Here’s wishing all my readers a Very Happy and Prosperous Diwali! For more special Diwali recipes, please click here. If you enjoyed this recipe, then you will surely love my Low-fat Paneer Makhani and Palak Paneer recipe as well. Tried this recipe? Leave a Comment and let me know, also Rate it by clicking the number of stars on the recipe card. Want to share your version with me? Tag me on Instagram @hookedonheat