These three healthy Christmas recipes are ideal for family gatherings, featuring shareable portions and familiar flavours that make them a hit with both adults and kids. They’re designed to bring everyone together around the table, creating moments to enjoy and savour.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Pecans
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1/2 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, until tender and golden.
- In the last 5 minutes, add cranberries and pecans to the baking sheet.
- Drizzle with balsamic vinegar (and honey or maple syrup if desired) before serving.
- Sweet Potato and Pomegranate Holiday Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
- 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds, pine nuts or walnut’s
Dressing:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potato cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast for 20–25 minutes until tender.
- In a large bowl, combine greens, pomegranate seeds, feta or goat cheese, and pumpkin seeds.
- Whisk dressing ingredients together and drizzle over the salad. Add roasted sweet potatoes and toss gently.
This salad is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to any holiday table.
- Gingerbread Energy Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup almond or cashew butter
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
For coating:
- ¼ cup ground chia seeds, coconut flakes or melted dark chocolate.
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine oats, nut butter, molasses, spices, vanilla, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients stick together. Add chopped nuts if desired.
- Roll mixture into small balls, then roll them in the coating of your choice and shake off excess.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy as a healthy holiday snack.
These bites are a wholesome, energy-boosting snack full of fibre, healthy fats, and festive spices. Perfect for satisfying the holiday cravings without added sugar!