Healthy Christmas Recipes
Christmas is a time for celebration, joy, and, of course, delicious food. However, it doesn't have to mean indulging in unhealthy dishes. Here are some healthy Christmas recipes that will keep your festive spirit high without compromising on nutrition.
1. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
Add cranberries and pecans, drizzle with balsamic vinegar, and roast for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve warm as a side dish.
2. Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers
Ingredients:
4 large bell peppers, halved and seeds removed
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup salsa
1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, combine quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and half of the salsa.
Stuff the bell pepper halves with the quinoa mixture and place them in a baking dish.
Top with remaining salsa and cheese, if using.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
3. Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup almond flour
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
1 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, mix oats, almond flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
Add honey, melted coconut oil, and mix until combined.
Fold in raisins or chocolate chips, if using.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet and flatten slightly.
Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
4. Spiced Apple Cider
Ingredients:
4 cups apple cider
1 orange, sliced
3-4 cinnamon sticks
5-6 whole cloves
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
In a large pot, combine apple cider, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg.
Heat over medium heat until simmering.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Strain and serve warm in mugs.
Conclusion
These healthy Christmas recipes are perfect for bringing festive cheer to your holiday celebrations while keeping your meals nutritious. Enjoy the flavors of the season without the guilt!