From Appetizer to Dessert: 5 Healthy Holiday Recipes

There’s absolutely no shame in enjoying the holidays! This time of year is meant for celebrating, relaxing, and, yes, indulging. But with so many delicious, healthy recipes out there, why wait for January 1st to recommit to your wellness goals? Try these healthy holiday recipes for a five-course meal that’s sure to impress even the most critical family members (and keep everyone on track for a healthy New Year)! 

P.S. Not only are these holiday recipes good for you, but they’re also simple and won’t break the bank!

5 Healthy Holiday Recipes You’ll Love

These recipes are so good, they may just replace great-aunt Karen’s family go-to’s! Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying dinner with the kids, see what you think of these healthy holiday recipes.

1. Appetizer: Artichoke Skewers

Artichoke skewers are the perfect appetizer because they are completely customizable! Start with this antipasto skewer recipe from the Food Network and you’re on your way to an amazing meal. For the base recipe, you’ll definitely need a can of quartered artichoke hearts and a jar of roasted red peppers. Slide each onto a toothpick or skewer and then get creative! 

Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, anchovies, cooked smoked sausage, cheese or anything else you know your fellow diners will love!

2. Main Dish: Herb-Roasted Turkey

No need to skip out on holiday classics! This herb-roasted turkey recipe from Eating Well forgoes the standard butter and oil for fresh herbs and fruit. The result is an amazingly juicy turkey (or chicken!) that — if our families’ reactions are any indicator — will be coming back year after year. 

3. Vegetable Side: Roasted Veggies

Frankly, most holiday veggie dishes are where its easiest to slip up on your healthy eating goals. A side of your family’s favorite roasted veggies is simple, delicious, and won’t have you filling up on cream and butter. 

To make your dish look and taste amazing, include a green, an orange, and a white veggie. For instance, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale are beautiful green veggies that are in season during winter. Add carrots, winter squash, or sweet potatoes for a pop of color and cauliflower and/or onions for additional variety. From there, you can further customize your veggie side dish by adding bacon or pancetta, more veggies, or a simple sauce. This tahini lemon sauce from The Lemon Dish is healthy, easy, and (naturally) pairs perfectly with the herb-roasted turkey recipe!

4. Side: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Based on the fact that over 57 million pounds of sweet potatoes are purchased just for Thanksgiving, we know better than to leave this holiday classic off the menu. Try this mashed sweet potato recipe from the Food Network for a side dish like no other. Made with orange juice and maple syrup, these sweet potatoes are uniquely delicious. 

Pro-tip: You don’t need a potato masher to make this recipe. Simply throw the peeled sweet potatoes into a food processor along with the other ingredients and pulse to the lumpiness of your liking!

5. Dessert: Mini Pie Cups

These single-serve apple or pumpkin pie cups by Live Well Bake Often take the guesswork out of portion control! They have all the usual goodness you expect in apple pie (re: sugar, flour, butter) but give you just enough to be satisfied.

Your dinner is sure to be a success with these healthy holiday recipes. And, with natural ingredients and less empty calories than standard holiday recipes, they won’t leave you feeling lethargic. (That means you can be first in line for seconds!)

 

Let us know your favorite recipe (and any variations) once you’ve tried them!