Not all of us are great cooks, and many of us don’t have much time to cook. Healthy meals can be challenging, considering minimal skills and tight schedules. It’s tough to ensure your family gets the nutrition they require.
Things can be even tougher if you have picky eaters. Young kids are often unenthusiastic about vegetables. You may think things get better as they get older, but teenagers and young adults can be just as picky- and dietary restrictions are another possible factor.
It’s challenging to please everyone when making everyday meals- but the stress adds up at holiday time. How can you make meals that please everyone at your dinner table? Fortunately, various meals are healthy, easy to make, and guaranteed to please the crowd.
Healthy Holiday Meals and Side Dishes
- Ravioli and Zucchini Lasagna: This recipe uses thinly cut zucchini slices instead of traditional lasagna noodles adding healthy vegetables to your dish. Zucchini is full of vitamin C, vitamin A, and folate which act as antioxidants. It is also high in manganese which helps protect the body from oxidative stress.
- Sausage Calzones: This is a great recipe to try when you’re pressed for time. With only 6 ingredients needed, it’s quick and easy to make. Add additional vegetables to get even more nutrients.
- Warm Broccoli Carrot Slaw: This holiday meal side dish is also easy to throw together. Broccoli and carrots are nutrient-dense. The garlic adds a delectable flavor few can resist!
- Pork Tenderloin with Seasoned Rub: This pork tenderloin will please diners of all ages. It’s super easy to make and quite delicious. The majority of the ingredients are in most pantries. You can also substitute certain ingredients and the dish will still turn out great. It’s highly recommended as a Christmas or everyday meal.
- Vegetarian Southern Style Collard Greens: This side dish brings the taste of the South to holiday meals. Onion, garlic, and tomatoes add various nutrients. Toss them together and bake them in your oven for an accompanying dish that’s healthy and easy to make.
Healthy Holiday Desserts
The healthy meals and side dishes listed above will please the entire family. But what about dessert? Believe it or not, several desserts contain healthy ingredients making them ideal alternatives to the usual high-fat, high-sugar options.
Here are a few to add to your holiday meal.
- Oatmeal Toffee Cookies: Oatmeal toffee cookies are an ideal alternative to other holiday cookies. The oatmeal is rich in fiber and nutrients. The toffee adds a delectable flavor. They are the perfect treat for healthy eaters.
- Date and Caramel Baked Pears: With pears as the dish base, you really can’t go wrong. Top them with gooey caramel, pecans, and pitted Medjool dates. Throw them in the oven to blend the flavors, and voila, you have a healthy dessert few can resist.
- Sugared Cranberries: What’s not to love about fruit and sugar? These cranberries are the perfect combination of tart and sweet. They make a great snack or dessert.
What are your favorite holiday meals & traditions?
