It’s Christmas Eve, and if you find yourself without a holiday dinner planned, don’t worry! The holiday season is synonymous with delicious food, festive gatherings, and indulgent treats. However, you don’t have to compromise on health to enjoy the festivities. At HereSpa, we believe in enjoying the holiday season with mindful and nutritious choices. Here are some healthy holiday recipes that are both delightful and nourishing, ensuring you can savor every bite guilt-free.

1. Cranberry Almond Energy Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup almond butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Instructions:

• In a large bowl, mix together oats, almond butter, and honey until well combined.
• Stir in the dried cranberries, chopped almonds, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
• Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

2. Roasted Butternut Squash Falafel Bites

These vegan and gluten-free falafel bites make a wonderful healthy holiday appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup roasted butternut squash, mashed
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a food processor, combine the mashed butternut squash, chickpeas, parsley, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

3. Dairy-Free Parsnip Cumin Soup

A creamy and delicious soup that supports your immune system during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the parsnips, garlic, and cumin, and cook for another 5 minutes.
• Add the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
• Blend the soup until smooth, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

4. Skillet Honey and Pomegranate Chicken Thighs

A fancy-looking but simple-to-make dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
• Drizzle the honey over the chicken and sprinkle with pomegranate seeds and parsley.
• Reduce heat and cook for another 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

These recipes are not only healthy but also easy to prepare, ensuring that you can enjoy a stress-free and delicious holiday feast. From all of us at HereSpa, have a wonderful and healthy Christmas!