The energy and magic of the holidays are in full effect. NYC is vibrant and buzzing – one of my favorite times of the year.
Holiday dinners and parties are filling up our calendars so keeping to any healthy nutrition during this season is a challenge. I focus on getting in extra movement and to prepare the healthiest versions of my favorite meals. Opting for recipes that are gluten and dairy free and made with simple wholesome ingredients make holiday indulging guilt free!
Here are some of my favorite meals on my healthy holiday menu.
I’m a huge fan of fresh summer rolls but it’s not easy finding a vegetarian option. So I had to craft my own. Much easier than expected to make, I chose tofu, bok choy, carrots and herbs for these rolls but you can create your own with your favorite veggies and protein. Makes a great appetizer to any dinner. Check out my recipe!
KALE AND BRUSSELS SPROUTS SALAD
Inspired by WellPlated, this vibrant and hearty Kale + Brussels Sprouts Salad is a great combination of texture and flavor. Loaded with nutrients, this salad is savory and sweet and makes a great side dish to any holiday meal. Here is the recipe!
This is my all-time favorite! These restaurant-style crab cakes are made with a few simple ingredients and take no time at all. A perfectly golden-brown exterior and flavorful interior are to die for! The best part – they are gluten and dairy free! Here is the recipe!
This healthier version of mac n’ cheese will give you all the comfort and satisfaction of the iconic dish but with a heaping of nutrients. Your family won’t even notice that you snuck in some extra veggies onto their plates! You can’t go wrong with this dish – get the recipe here!
My go-to protein source is salmon so this was a no-brainer for me to make. A simple recipe that can be served on a gluten free bun, lettuce wrap or in a large green salad. Made some small modifications to Food Network’s recipe for a gluten and dairy free meal. Here is the recipe.
If you know me, desserts (+ croissants) make the top of my list when it comes to indulging. Inspired by Dr. Weil’s recipe, it took me a few attempts on creating my healthiest version of the classic banana bread! And here it is! Get my recipe here.
The most sought-after recipe during the festive season. With a little modification, I get to enjoy this classic holiday favorite every year without having to compromise my healthy eating goals. Thanks to one of my favorite recipe blogs Cookie and Kate, who shared a healthier sugar alternative for the pie filling — naturally sweet pure maple syrup — which tastes just as good if not better! I also added a gluten free crust so splurging on a slice or two was guilt free! Here’s the recipe!
Happy Eating + Holidays!