Preparing for the Holidays: A Healthy Twist on Tradition


Nov 19, 2024

 by Rob Bratcher
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The holidays often mean gathering with loved ones, sharing laughs, and, of course, indulging in festive food. But what if this year, instead of sacrificing your health goals, you reinvent your favorite holiday dishes in a way that nourishes both body and soul? Think of it as a “Recipe Revival”—taking the comfort foods you love and giving them a healthier, more wholesome twist.

Here’s how to prepare mentally, physically, and emotionally for a season of joy while staying true to your health goals. Plus, you’ll find four simple, delicious, and healthier holiday recipes to add to your menu.

Mental Preparation: Plan for a Healthy Season

  1. Reclaim the Menu
    With the Recipe Revival mindset, you don’t have to abandon tradition—just reimagine it. Dressing, pumpkin pie, and even mashed potatoes can be made with ingredients that nourish rather than harm your body.

  2. Set Boundaries Without Stress
    It’s okay to say no to dishes that don’t align with your goals or offer alternatives. Share the idea of healthy swaps with your family—it might inspire them too!

  3. Visualize Your Holiday Plate
    Picture a plate full of color: roasted vegetables, a revamped stuffing, and a lighter dessert. Mentally planning your choices can help you stay grounded.

Physical Preparation: Set Yourself Up for Success

  1. Revamp Your Pantry
    Stock up on essentials like almond flour, pure maple syrup, unsweetened applesauce, and plant-based milks. These staples make healthy swaps easier.

  2. Bring a Dish
    If you’re attending a gathering, bring a dish you’ve “revived” so you know there’s something you can enjoy without compromise.

  3. Stay Hydrated and Active
    Drinking water before meals and staying active during the day will keep your energy up and cravings at bay.

Emotional Preparation: Stay Connected to Your Why

  1. Find Joy Beyond the Table
    Focus on the experiences and connections rather than centering every celebration around food.

  2. Let Go of Perfection
    Holidays aren’t about being perfect—they’re about making progress. If you slip up, it’s okay. Simply reset at the next meal.

  3. Celebrate Your Progress
    Acknowledge how far you’ve come, even if this is your first holiday making lifestyle changes. Reflect on how much better you’ll feel by staying consistent.

Holiday Recipe Revival

Savory: Whole Grain Sage Dressing

  • Ingredients:
    • 4 cups whole-grain bread cubes (toasted)
    • 1 small onion, diced
    • 2 stalks celery, chopped
    • 1 cup vegetable broth
    • 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
    • ½ tsp thyme
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Directions:
    1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
    2. Sauté onion and celery in a splash of broth until softened.
    3. Toss bread cubes with vegetables and seasonings.
    4. Add broth gradually, stirring to coat. Mixture should be moist but not soggy.
    5. Bake in a casserole dish for 25 minutes, until lightly browned.

Savory: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
    • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
    • 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Directions:
    1. Steam cauliflower until tender.
    2. Blend with remaining ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
    3. Adjust seasonings and serve hot.

Sweet: No-Bake Pumpkin Pie Bars

  • Ingredients:
    • Crust:
      • 1 cup rolled oats
      • 1 cup pitted dates
      • ½ tsp cinnamon
    • Filling:
      • 1 cup pure pumpkin purée
      • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
      • 2 tbsp maple syrup
      • 1 tsp cinnamon
      • ½ tsp nutmeg
      • 1 tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
  • Directions:
    1. Blend crust ingredients in a food processor until sticky. Press into a small baking dish.
    2. Whisk filling ingredients together and pour over crust.
    3. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours before slicing.

Sweet: Cranberry Orange Bliss Bites

  • Ingredients:
    • 1 cup raw cashews
    • ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened, if possible)
    • Zest of 1 orange
    • 2 tbsp maple syrup
  • Directions:
    1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor until a dough forms.
    2. Roll into small balls and chill for 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

The holidays don’t have to be an obstacle to your health goals—they can be an opportunity to showcase how delicious and satisfying healthy living can be. With a little creativity, your favorite dishes can be transformed into nutrient-packed versions that leave you feeling energized and happy.

Remember: this is a lifestyle, not a sprint. Each choice you make builds momentum toward the healthy life you deserve. So go ahead—revive your recipes, embrace the season, and celebrate your progress!