The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes a plethora of delicious yet indulgent treats. But why sacrifice your health goals for the sake of festive cheer? This year, we’re shaking things up by serving up 20 mouthwatering, healthier holiday recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
From savory main courses to sweet treats, these dishes incorporate nutritious ingredients and clever twists on classic favorites. Whether you’re a busy bee or a holiday entertainer extraordinaire, our collection of recipes will provide endless inspiration for your festive feast.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite healthy holiday recipes, each one carefully crafted to bring joy to your table while keeping your dietary goals in check. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get cozy – it’s time to get cooking!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze Recipe
Elevate the humble Brussels sprout by roasting it to caramelized perfection and finishing it off with a tangy balsamic glaze. This simple yet impressive side dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. While the sprouts are roasting, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Remove Brussels sprouts from oven and toss with balsamic glaze.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash
A flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that combines the nutty taste of quinoa with the sweetness of roasted acorn squash. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squash
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh kale
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa with chopped kale, crumbled feta cheese (if using), salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Stuff each squash half with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly between both.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the squash and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
Elevate your turkey game with this flavorful and easy-to-make Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast recipe! Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless turkey breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and brush the herb mixture evenly over the surface.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the turkey for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 – 2 hours
Maple-Glazed Carrots with Thyme
These tender carrots are infused with the warmth of thyme and the richness of maple syrup, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and minimal preparation.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, and thyme leaves.
3. Add the carrot slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spread the carrots in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lentil and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty and nutritious recipe that combines the goodness of lentils, mushrooms, and roasted peppers. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, onion, and garlic until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the cooked lentils, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the lentil mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Place the peppers in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and top each pepper with cheddar cheese (if using). Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Rosemary
Transform regular sweet potato fries into a gourmet treat by infusing them with the earthy flavor of rosemary. This easy recipe yields crispy, flavorful fries that are perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon dried rosemary leaves
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Additional seasonings of your choice (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch thick).
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, rosemary leaves, and salt until they are evenly coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange the sweet potato strips in a single layer, leaving some space between each fry for even cooking.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the fries are tender and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional seasonings if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, feta cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cauliflower Mash with Garlic and Chives
This creamy cauliflower mash is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional mashed potatoes. With the added flavors of garlic and chives, it’s perfect as a side dish or a base for various recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into florets.
3. Toss with garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Add butter and mash the cauliflower with a fork until smooth.
6. If using cheese, stir it in until melted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pomegranate and Kale Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweet-tart flavor of pomegranate with the earthy taste of kale, perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal. With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the kale leaves with your hands for about 2-3 minutes to soften them.
2. Add the pomegranate seeds, feta cheese (if using), and nuts to the bowl.
3. Drizzle the olive oil and apple cider vinegar over the mixture, tossing gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
Transform the flavors of fall into a warm and comforting soup with this recipe for Spiced Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, this soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
5. Scoop flesh into a blender or food processor with onion, garlic, and broth. Blend until smooth.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (roasting time) + blending time
Wild Rice and Cranberry Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines nutty wild rice with sweet and tangy cranberries, creating a flavorful side dish perfect for the fall season. With its satisfying texture and burst of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the wild rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water or broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in the cranberries, cumin, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and refreshing recipe that combines the richness of grilled salmon with the brightness of a zesty lemon-dill sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper.
3. Grill salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the salmon is cooking, combine lemon juice, dill, garlic, and olive oil in a small bowl.
5. Remove grilled salmon from heat and top each fillet with the lemon-dill sauce.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Avocado and Chickpea Salad Wraps
A refreshing and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the creaminess of avocado with the nutty flavor of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 ounces), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 whole wheat tortillas
– Optional: sliced red onion, crumbled feta cheese, or chopped bell peppers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until mostly smooth.
2. Add the chickpeas, cilantro, lime juice, and cumin to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Spoon about 1/2 cup of the avocado-chickpea mixture onto each tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap up tightly.
Cooking Time: None! This salad wrap is ready to eat immediately.
Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Walnuts
Transform tender apples into a warm, spiced dessert with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baking apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), cored and halved
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, ground cinnamon, and brown sugar.
3. Place the apple halves in a baking dish, leaving a little space between each apple.
4. Spoon the butter-cinnamon mixture evenly among the apples, dividing it among them.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the apples.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Transform ordinary zucchini into a delicious and healthy meal with this simple recipe. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch, these pesto-infused noodles are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash and spiralize the zucchinis into noodles.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the zucchini noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines tender turkey with a colorful mix of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chia Seed Pudding with Berries
A nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option, this chia seed pudding is packed with omega-3 rich chia seeds and bursting with sweet berry flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together chia seeds and almond milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid.
2. Add honey, vanilla extract, and salt to the mixture. Stir well.
3. Cover the bowl with a cloth and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to thicken.
4. Just before serving, top the pudding with mixed berries.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (or overnight)
Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad
A sweet and savory salad that combines the natural sweetness of roasted beets with the creaminess of goat cheese, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beets
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Wrap beets in foil and roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
2. Let beets cool, then peel and slice into wedges.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, goat cheese, and nuts.
4. Arrange beet wedges on top of the salad.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Add a flavorful twist to your roasted potatoes with this simple recipe that combines the pungency of garlic, brightness of herbs, and crispy texture. Perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries
Sweet Treat Alert!
Elevate a classic snack with rich dark chocolate and fresh strawberries. This simple yet indulgent recipe is perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: chopped nuts or sprinkles for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. Dip each strawberry slice into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the fruit.
3. Place the dipped strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a wire rack set over parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts or sprinkles, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (assembly and chilling)
Servings: 12-16 strawberries
Enjoy your delicious Dark Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries!
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these 20 festive and healthy holiday recipes! From savory dishes like Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze and Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast, to sweet treats like Baked Apples with Cinnamon and Walnuts, there’s something for everyone. These delicious and nutritious options are perfect for a holiday gathering or everyday meal. Discover new favorite recipes like Quinoa-Stuffed Acorn Squash, Lentil and Mushroom Stuffed Peppers, and many more in this collection of mouth-watering dishes.