19+ Healthy Holiday Recipe Ideas Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Mar 5, 2024
The holiday season is a time of indulgence, with many traditional recipes that are high in calories and unhealthy ingredients. However, with a little creativity and some healthy ingredient swaps, you can still enjoy delicious holiday meals without sacrificing your health. In this article, we'll provide you with some healthy holiday recipe ideas that are not only delicious but also nutritious and perfect for maintaining a balanced diet during this festive season.
Main Ingredients: Red Swiss Chard, Oranges, Radishes, Grapes, Pecans
The holiday season is a time for indulgence, but that doesn't mean you have to throw your healthy eating habits out the window. In fact, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious holiday recipes out there, including this healthy holiday salad. Packed with seasonal ingredients like cranberries, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pecans, this salad is sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Plus, it's a great way to get in some extra veggies during a time when we tend to overindulge in sweets and treats.
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Your Complete Healthy Holiday Meal with Wild Rice...
Main Ingredients: Wild Rice, Chopped Celery, Sliced Mushrooms, Onion
Planning a healthy holiday meal can seem like a daunting task, but with a little creativity and some smart ingredient swaps, you can create a delicious and nutritious feast for your family and friends. One dish that is sure to impress is this wild rice and mushroom casserole. Made with hearty wild rice, mushrooms, and herbs, it's a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional holiday side dishes. Plus, it's vegetarian and gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
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A Healthy Holiday Treat
Main Ingredients: Celery Sticks, Creamy Peanut Butter, Raspberries
Just because you're trying to eat healthy during the holidays doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fun and festive treats. This healthy holiday bark is the perfect example. Made with dark chocolate, dried cranberries, and chopped pistachios, it's a delicious and guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it makes a great homemade gift for friends and family.
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Food Babe's Healthy Holiday Granola
Main Ingredients: Rolled Oats, Nuts, Shredded Unsweetened Coconut
Granola is a staple in many households, but store-bought versions can be loaded with added sugars and unhealthy fats. That's why we love this homemade healthy holiday granola recipe from Food Babe. It's made with whole grain oats, almonds, cranberries, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Enjoy it as a topping for yogurt or as a healthy snack on its own.
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Cranberry Orange Healthy Holiday Snack Mix
Main Ingredients: Butter, Brown Sugar, Orange Juice Concentrate, Ground
If you're looking for a healthy and festive snack to have on hand during the holiday season, look no further than this cranberry orange snack mix. Made with a mix of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and a touch of orange zest, it's a tasty and nutritious option to have on hand for when those snack cravings hit. Bonus: it's also great for gifting in cute mason jars tied with a ribbon.
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Healthy Holiday Stuffing | High Protein & Dairy Free!
Main Ingredients: Bread, Sausage Casings, Olive Oil, Brussels Sprouts
No holiday meal is complete without stuffing, and this healthy version is sure to be a hit with your guests. Made with quinoa, lentils, and plenty of veggies, this high-protein and dairy-free stuffing is a healthier alternative to traditional bread-based stuffing. It's also a great way to use up any leftover quinoa or lentils you may have on hand.
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Healthy Holiday Swaps and Cauliflower Mash {Giveaway}
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Chili Seasoning, Olive Oil, Garlic Powder
Making healthy holiday swaps is a great way to enjoy your favorite holiday dishes without all the added calories and unhealthy ingredients. One popular swap is using cauliflower in place of mashed potatoes. This recipe for cauliflower mash is a delicious and lower-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. And don't forget to top it with fresh herbs for added flavor and nutrition.
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Healthy Holiday Chai Tea Latte
Main Ingredients: Water, Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk, Honey, Cinnamon
There's nothing quite like a warm and cozy drink on a cold winter day, and this chai tea latte is the perfect healthy option. Made with almond milk, chai tea bags, and a touch of honey, it's a comforting and delicious alternative to sugar-laden holiday drinks like hot chocolate or eggnog. Plus, the warming spices in chai tea are great for boosting the immune system during cold and flu season.
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Healthy Holiday Juice
Main Ingredients: Cauliflower, Apple, Pear, Cucumber, Orange Juice
If you're looking for a healthy and refreshing beverage to serve at your holiday gatherings, why not try making your own juice? This recipe for a green holiday juice is made with seasonal ingredients like kale, apples, and ginger, and is a great way to get in some extra nutrients during a time when we tend to indulge in less healthy options. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover produce you may have in your fridge.
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Healthy Holiday Fudge
Main Ingredients: Coconut, Cocoa Powder, Raw Honey, Vanilla Extract, Sea
Fudge is a classic holiday treat, but it's often loaded with sugar and unhealthy fats. This healthier version is made with coconut oil, dark chocolate, and almond butter, making it a better-for-you option that still tastes indulgent. Plus, it's a great recipe to make with kids, as they can help mix and decorate the fudge with festive sprinkles or crushed nuts.
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Healthy Holiday Drinks
Main Ingredients: Hazelnuts, Natural Cocoa Powder, Medjool Dates, Sea
When it comes to holiday drinks, don't forget about the non-alcoholic options. This recipe for a cranberry rosemary mocktail is a delicious and refreshing beverage that's perfect for sipping on during holiday parties. Made with cranberry juice, sparkling water, and a sprig of rosemary, it's a beautiful and healthy way to toast to the holiday season.
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Healthy Holiday Nog Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Rolled Oats, Milk, Ripe Banana, Vanilla Bean, Maple
Who says you can't enjoy pancakes during the holidays? These healthy holiday nog pancakes are a fun and festive twist on traditional pancakes, made with eggnog and warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Plus, they're topped with a homemade cranberry compote for a burst of seasonal flavor. Serve them up for a special holiday breakfast or brunch.
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Healthy Holiday Sugar Cookie
Main Ingredients: Cookie, Butter, Non Fat Greek Yogurt, Granulated Sugar
Sugar cookies are a staple during the holidays, but they're often loaded with sugar and unhealthy ingredients. This healthier version is made with coconut flour and coconut sugar, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Plus, they're just as delicious and festive as traditional sugar cookies, especially when decorated with colorful natural sprinkles or dried cranberries.
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Healthy Holiday Trifle {Recipe}
Main Ingredients: Gluten, Frozen Mixed Fruit, Whipped Cream, Coconut
A trifle is a classic holiday dessert, and this healthier version is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Made with layers of fresh fruit, homemade whipped cream, and angel food cake, it's a lighter and more nutritious option than traditional trifles that are often made with heavy cream and sugary custard. Plus, it's a beautiful and festive addition to any holiday table.
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50 Healthy Holiday Side Dishes
Main Ingredients: Eggplant, Medium Tomatoes, Olive Oil, Kosher Salt, Red
If you're looking for even more healthy holiday inspiration, check out this list of 50 healthy side dishes. From roasted veggies and grain salads to healthier versions of classic holiday dishes like green bean casserole and mashed potatoes, there's something for everyone on this list. And don't be afraid to mix and match dishes to create a well-rounded and nutritious holiday meal.
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Healthy Holiday Treats – Vegan Eggnog
Main Ingredients: Coconut Milk, Banana, Allspice, Ground Nutmeg, Vanilla
If you're following a vegan or dairy-free diet, you don't have to miss out on the holiday tradition of drinking eggnog. This recipe for vegan eggnog is made with cashews, almond milk, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It's creamy, delicious, and the perfect way to enjoy a festive drink without any dairy.
Main Ingredients: Honey, Orange Juice, Cinnamon, Ground Cloves
No holiday meal is complete without cranberry sauce, and this healthy version is a great option for those following a paleo or gluten-free diet. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and honey, it's a simple and flavorful alternative to the canned variety. Plus, it's a great way to add some color and nutrition to your holiday plate.
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Healthy Cherry Meringue Pie for a Healthy Holiday Treat
Main Ingredients: Graham Crackers, Banana, Honey, Vanilla, Truvia, Cream
Pie is a holiday staple, and this healthier version of cherry meringue pie is sure to impress your guests. Made with a grain-free crust and a filling of fresh cherries, lemon juice, and honey, it's a delicious and seasonal dessert that's also gluten-free and paleo-friendly. Plus, the addition of a light and airy meringue topping makes it feel extra special.
Main Ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Raw Cacao Powder, Almond Butter
Another delicious and healthy fudge recipe, this version is made with almond butter, coconut oil, and raw cacao powder, making it a raw, vegan, and gluten-free option. It's a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without any processed ingredients or added sugars. Plus, it's easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for a quick and healthy holiday treat.
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[RECIPE] Healthy Holiday Individual Apple & Pumpkin...
Main Ingredients: Flour, Maple Syrup, Melted Butter, Canela, Apples
If you're looking for a unique and healthier dessert option for your holiday table, these individual apple and pumpkin crisps are a great option. Made with fresh apples, pumpkin puree, and oatmeal, they're a lighter and more nutritious alternative to traditional pies. Plus, each person gets their own personal serving, making for a fun and festive presentation.
Healthy Swaps for Traditional Holiday Recipes
1. Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
Instead of using regular mashed potatoes, which are often loaded with butter and cream, try making cauliflower mashed potatoes. Simply steam cauliflower florets and mash them with a little olive oil, garlic, and low-fat Greek yogurt. This swap will significantly lower the calorie and fat content of your mashed potatoes, while still providing a creamy and flavorful side dish.
2. Quinoa Stuffing
Traditional stuffing is made with white bread, which is high in refined carbohydrates and low in nutrients. Swap it out for quinoa, a protein-packed grain that is also high in fiber and various vitamins and minerals. Cook the quinoa with chicken or vegetable broth, sautéed vegetables, and herbs for a flavorful and healthy alternative.
3. Grilled Vegetable Platter
Instead of serving a heavy and calorie-rich side dish like green bean casserole, opt for a colorful and nutritious grilled vegetable platter. Simply season and grill your choice of vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, for a delicious and vitamin-rich addition to your holiday table.
Healthy Dessert Options
1. Fruit Salad
Skip the sugary pies and cakes and end your holiday meal with a refreshing and low-calorie fruit salad. Use seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and cranberries, and add a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
2. Dark Chocolate Bark
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has less sugar than milk chocolate, making it a healthier option for satisfying your sweet tooth. Melt some dark chocolate and spread it on a baking sheet, then top with chopped nuts and dried fruit. Let it cool and break into pieces for a delicious and guilt-free holiday treat.
3. Baked Apples
For a warm and comforting dessert, try baking apples in the oven with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey. Serve with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt for a protein boost and a creamy texture.
Conclusion
With these healthy holiday recipe ideas, you can still enjoy delicious and festive meals without compromising your health. By making simple ingredient swaps and incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your holiday dishes, you can maintain a balanced diet and feel good about your food choices during this indulgent time of year. So go ahead and try out these recipes for a healthy and happy holiday season!
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