The holidays are the hardest time to stick to a healthy, real foods style of eating! I always struggle to find healthy Christmas dishes to take to parties that are still fun AND delicious. So, I compiled a list of some of my favorites and wanted to share it with you. I’ve made a couple of these just this week, and they were delicious!
Let’s start with a fun one… Look at these little cuties! They’d be great for kids and fun-loving adults alike!
Roasted red peppers are one of my weaknesses, and this dip looks ah.mazing. The recipe is vegan, and it’s loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats. It gives instructions for roasting your own peppers, but if you’re short on time, feel free to substitute some high quality jarred peppers.
Popcorn is one of the greatest real foods snacks! It feels like you’re indulging in a salty, junk food, but in fact is a whole grain food that delivers protein and fiber with very little calories! To avoid the additives in the pre-popped or microwaveable types, you’ll need to pop your own. If you don’t have a popper, see my snack post for a quick and easy method.
There are also a million different ways to season popcorn. You can definitely get creative with this one! This recipe calls for garam masala. If you don’t have it on hand, try substituting cumin. It’s one of my family’s favorites!
I am currently obsessed with this cocoa. It is so delicious, and the best part is that you can indulge without breaking any gluten free, paleo, anti-inflammatory, or even vegan diet! There are also alternatives listed for peppermint and mexican style cocoas. Mmmmmm…. (Try making a big batch in a crock pot for a party!)
Ok. We’re going super simple now. You only have a few minutes to put together an appetizer! What do you do?!? Olives to the rescue! Mix, let marinate for a few minutes & serve. While it’s marinating, cut some cheese into cubes, set out some toothpicks and you have a nice little spread for your guests!
You probably know that the oil from olives is a heart healthy fat, but did you know it can be helpful for anti-inflammatory problems like arthritis? Add in the high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients and there is hardly a healthier food!
This one is a little more complicated, but worth the effort! With B vitamins, tons of trace minerals and the ability to boost the immune system, mushrooms are a great option when you need something healthy and more substantial than crudité.
How about a dessert?? This one is the crème de la crème – literally! This creamy mousse HAS to be on my list. It’s made with tea AND essential oil! And it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 – steep, blend, chill – but your guests will think you slaved over this fancy fair!
Happy Holidays and Healthy Eating!!