The holiday season is filled with joy, laughter, and indulgent feasts. But who says you can’t enjoy festive flavors while keeping it light and healthy? Here are five wholesome Christmas recipes that’ll make your table both nutritious and delightful!
1. Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
4 large red bell peppers (tops cut off, seeds removed)
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
1/2 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix quinoa, black beans, corn, tomatoes, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Stuff the mixture into the bell peppers and place them in a baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes.
Serve warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Helpful Note:
Make these ahead of time and reheat for convenience!
2. Cranberry Almond Salad with Orange Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
6 cups mixed greens
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup sliced almonds
1 orange (zested and juiced)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Whisk orange juice, zest, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
Toss greens, cranberries, and almonds in a large bowl.
Drizzle dressing over the salad just before serving.
Helpful Note:
Add grilled chicken or tofu for extra protein!
3. Herb-Crusted Baked Salmon
Ingredients:
4 salmon fillets
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs
2 tbsp chopped parsley
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Brush salmon with olive oil and Dijon mustard.
Mix breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Press onto the salmon.
Place on a lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until flaky.
Helpful Note:
Serve with steamed veggies or brown rice for a complete meal.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts (halved)
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Sprinkle with pomegranate seeds before serving.
Helpful Note:
Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
5. Flourless Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round pan and line with parchment paper.
Melt chocolate and butter in a microwave or double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Stir in sugar, cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Cool completely before slicing.
Helpful Note:
Dust with powdered sugar or top with fresh berries for a festive touch!
Enjoy these 5 Christmas Recipes Healthy options that balance indulgence and nourishment. Perfect for celebrating the season with loved ones without overdoing it!
