The holiday season is synonymous with indulgent meals and sweet treats, but it doesn’t have to derail your health goals. With a few simple swaps and creative ideas, you can enjoy all the flavors of the season while keeping your dishes nutritious and satisfying. Here are three wholesome holiday recipes to inspire your menu this year.
1. Sweet Potato and Pecan Casserole
Ditch the marshmallows and processed sugar with this naturally sweetened twist on a holiday classic.
Ingredients:
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil or steam the sweet potatoes until tender. Mash them with almond milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes into a baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, toss the chopped pecans with melted coconut oil. Sprinkle over the sweet potatoes.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the pecans are toasted and fragrant.
2. Whole Grain Stuffing with Mushrooms and Cranberries
This hearty, nutrient-packed stuffing swaps out white bread for whole-grain options and adds veggies for extra nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 8 cups cubed whole-grain bread, toasted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, cranberries, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, mixing until the bread is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes to crisp the top.
3. Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Truffles
These no-bake treats are the perfect balance of indulgent and healthy, made with dates, nuts, and cacao.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup raw almonds or cashews
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or cocoa powder (optional, for coating)
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, blend the nuts until finely ground.
2. Add the dates, cacao powder, and peppermint extract. Blend until the mixture sticks together.
3. Roll the mixture into small balls. If desired, roll in crushed candy canes or cocoa powder to coat.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Healthy Holiday Tips
1. Swap Smartly: Use whole grains, natural sweeteners, and plant-based fats to create lighter versions of your holiday favorites.
2. Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables into your sides and even desserts for added nutrients and flavor.
3. Portion Mindfully: Focus on savoring smaller portions of indulgent dishes and filling up on healthier options like salads or roasted veggies.
This holiday season, celebrate with dishes that nourish your body and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy the warmth, joy, and love of the holidays with food that fuels your wellness!
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