9 festive recipes for healthy holiday meals
Variety is the spice of life, especially for holiday meals. We've got you covered with these delicious nontraditional options — from appetizers and sides to main dishes and desserts.
Since this time of year can be challenging when you're trying to eat healthy, these dishes provide lots of options to let you indulge and still stay on track.
Perk up your table with some of our most imaginative holiday recipes, many of them straight from the kitchen of Jessica VanRoo, executive chef of the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, part of UCI Health.
Mushroom Lentil Paté
A delicious vegan appetizer full of high-quality protein, fiber, iron, folate and selenium that protect against heart disease.
Salmon Spread with Vegetables
Serve this lighter version of a traditionally high-calorie spread featuring low-fat cheeses and served on cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes instead of crackers.
Butternut Squash Soup with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds
Enjoy this a low-calorie, nutrient-dense, comforting holiday soup that is packed with calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
Baked Artichoke and Spinach Polenta with Gruyère
A tasty casserole with the comfort food creaminess we all crave during the holidays but also packed with vital nutrients.
Roasted Garlic Ratatouille
An eye-catcher at any gathering, full of vegetables with a garlicky aroma that's sure to tempt a hungry crowd.
Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
A clever change of pace from the usual turkey, ham or roast beef entrees.
Holiday Shrimp Paella
Start a new holiday tradition with this festive dish that is high in protein, low in fat and full of omega-3 fatty acids that can promote heart and brain health.
Tiramisu Trifle
Another show-stopper for the holiday table. Our version of this decadent dessert uses silken tofu to add protein and a velvety smooth texture.
Gingerbread Bundt Cake
Pull out that Bundt pan and serve up some nostalgic happiness along with a sprinkling of anti-inflammatory spices.
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