9 Healthy Holiday Sides
Janet Lipson
Oh, what fun it is to go to holiday parties and feast with family and friends. But just because the season is often focused on high-fat, calorie-ridden indulgences doesn’t mean you can’t keep your diet in check.
Here are a few healthy versions of your favorite holiday dishes that you can enjoy to the max with none of the guilt:
Paleo Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
Compared to potatoes, cauliflower has one fifth the calories, a lower glycemic index, and it’s rich in vitamins K and C. Made with fresh garlic cloves, creamy coconut milk, and cumin, these “mashed potatoes” are sure to impress.
Spicy Green Beans with Toasted Almonds
Green beans are loaded with antioxidants, vitamins K and C, and fiber, and the silicon in them is great for your hair, skin, and nails. This year, why not swap the high-calorie green bean casserole for this tasty recipe made with red pepper flakes and toasted almonds.
Cornbread Stuffing with Brussels Sprouts & Squash
Does your family go straight for the carbs? This healthy cornbread stuffing, featuring squash, Brussels sprouts, currents, and pecans, is a delicious way to sneak in more veggies. Plus, it packs in 33 grams of vitamin C. So amazing, you might even forgo the gravy!
Whole Wheat Irish Soda Bread Rolls
Whole grains can help risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. So instead of picking up store-bought rolls made from refined carbs, bake yours from scratch with whole wheat flour. Make these the day before and reheat on party day.
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, sweet potatoes help reduce your risk for cancer, support digestion, strengthen your immune system, and improve your vision. For the best mash, use the ruby or garnet variety.
At only 88 calories, these oven-glazed carrots are a tasty way to get a healthy dose of carotene, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. They also help lower cholesterol and enhance eye health. A touch of honey in this dish will satisfy your sweet tooth.
Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup
Butternut squash meets apples to create this mouthwatering soup with 6 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and 26 milligrams of vitamin C. Make sure to cook extra so you can freeze and enjoy over the whole holiday season.
Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Did someone say vitamin C? These roasted Brussels sprouts are loaded with a whopping 146 milligrams! Made with just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in only 30 minutes. Add your own personal touch with chopped nuts or spices.
When it’s the holidays, everything’s better with cranberries. This recipe provides an excellent source of phosphorus, which improves energy production, bone health, and DNA synthesis. Make it extra healthy by using whole grain cornmeal.
After you’ve finished eating, why not walk off your meal with a stroll around the hood. Besides burning a few extra calories, it’ll help you connect with the people you love most.
