Roasted Butternut Squash Soup (Dairy-Free)
Ingredients: butternut squash, onion, garlic, vegetable broth, olive oil, thyme, nutmeg
Method: Roast squash → sauté aromatics → blend with broth and spices → simmer.
Why it’s healthy: rich in fiber & vitamins A/C; uses olive oil instead of cream.
Citrus-Kale Salad with Pomegranate & Walnuts
Ingredients: shredded kale, orange segments, pomegranate arils, toasted walnuts, lemon-olive oil dressing
Why it’s healthy: antioxidant-packed; balanced textures; bright flavors offset heavy holiday foods.
Cauliflower & Parsnip Mash
A lighter alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.
Method: steam cauliflower & parsnips → blend with garlic, olive oil, sea salt, pepper → top with chives.
Why it’s healthy: fewer calories & carbs but still creamy.
Herb-Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients: diced sweet potatoes, rosemary, paprika, olive oil, pepper
Why it’s healthy: keeps the natural sweetness without added sugar.
Green Beans with Toasted Almonds & Lemon Zest
Lightly sauté green beans in olive oil; finish with lemon zest, sliced almonds, and a pinch of salt.
Why it’s healthy: crisp, fresh, and heart-healthy fats from almonds.
Citrus-Herb Roast Turkey Breast
Seasoning: rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, pepper, olive oil.
Why it’s healthy: lean white meat; citrus brightens flavor without fat.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Fill roasted squash halves with quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and herbs.
Why it’s healthy: plant-based complete protein; perfect for non-meat eaters.
Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms & Cranberries
Ingredients: wild rice, mushrooms, celery, dried cranberries, parsley.
Why it’s healthy: gluten-free, high fiber, earthy and satisfying.
Whole-Grain Stuffing with Apples & Sage
Swap white bread for whole grain; use low-sodium broth; add apples for natural sweetness.
Pumpkin Chia Pudding
Made with pumpkin puree, almond milk, spices, maple syrup, and chia seeds.
Why it’s healthy: high-fiber, light, and festive.
Greek Yogurt Pumpkin Pie
Mix part Greek yogurt into the filling to reduce heavy cream while keeping it creamy.
Baked Cinnamon Apples
Core apples, fill with raisins + nuts + honey → bake until soft.
Why it’s healthy: whole fruit dessert that still feels indulgent.