We always say that if you’re going to indulge, there’s no reason to feel guilty about it, especially if it’s during the holidays. After all, these celebrations only come around a few times times a year and sufficed to say, a few indulgent dinners won’t set you (or your waistline) back in the long term.
That being said, wouldn’t it be nice if we could indulge and know that we’re also doing the body good? If you have yet to plan your Christmas menu, well you’re in luck because you still have a day or so left and we’re here to save the day. Here are some lightened up options that are still heavy (in a good way) on taste.
1. Heavenly Hasselback Sweet Potatoes via Foodista
This might be the holy grail of carbohydrates, but who cares?! If you’re going to do it, do it right. With this simple 10-ingredient hasselback, it’s a great and innovative way to use sweet potatoes that doesn’t involves marshmallows. We almost love this more.
2. Olive Oil, Garlic & Romano Cheese Mashed Cauliflower via Faithfulness Farm
Mashed potatoes are a classic but mashed cauliflower is a whole lot lighter and just as delicious, if you can believe it!
3. Winter Kale and Wild Rice Salad via Recipe Runner
A great way to incorporate fresh greens in your meal, this winter kale and wild rice salad makes a great side that can be quickly tossed together.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts W/ Cranberries & Pecans via tablespoon
Brussels sprouts may not be your favorite veggie year-round, but we think you’re just not making them right! Roasting them is a much better way to go than simply boiling them. Drizzle on some balsamic vinegar and toss with pecans and cranberries for perfect concoction. Feelin’ cheesy? Top with feta.
5. Clean Green Bean Casserole via ifoodreal
Green bean casserole is classic, but this recipe lightens it up substantially. Thanks to the parmesan crumb topping, however, this dish provides the perfect combination of decadence and crunch you will surely be craving.
6. 1 Hour Vegan Shephard’s Pie via Minimalist Baker
For the vegans out there, you will definitely not be left behind. Bonus: Who can deny that 1-hour recipe sounds incredibly tempting?
Instead of glazed carrots (boring), go for these carrot fries – a much more innovative option.
8. Roasted Butternut Squash with Kale and Almond Pecan Parmesan via Oh She Glows
If butternut squash is not the taste of cold weather, then we don’t know what is. This vegan recipe brings a combination of kale and nut cheese toppings for a well rounded side dish.
9. Smoky Roasted Mushrooms via Food Network
Who else is completely and totally head over heels for nutty mushroom flavors? We could gobble this up in 5 seconds flat.
10. 5-Ingredient Creamed Corn via Damn Delicious
You might not think creamed corn sounds too great, but combined with hearty potatoes and veggies, it’s totally complementary.
For more Food features, check out our our articles here.
Which healthy holiday sides are you going to try this year?
