Healthy (and tasty) Holiday Recipes

With Thanksgiving behind us, the holiday season is now in full swing. For most of us, that means an abundance of parties, celebrations… and delicious food. Last month, we partnered with registered dietitian, Alissa Palladino, from Good Measure Meals to share strategies for navigating this food-focused season while staying on track with health and fitness goals. This month, she is sharing traditional and healthy holiday snack recipes.

Whether you’re a guest or a host this holiday season, these recipes are sure to impress your friends, family, and co-workers, while offering some nutrition benefits.

Spice Roasted Chickpeas

Ingredients: 
• 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. cumin
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• a pinch of cayenne
• 1 Tbsp. vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse beans; pat dry.
2. Toss chickpeas with oil and seasoning.
3. Transfer mixture to a sheet pan.
4. Roast in oven at 400° for 50 minutes, shaking every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.
5. Remove from oven and allow to cool. Return to the oven as needed, until crispy.

Nutrition Perks:
Chickpeas are packed with filling fiber and satisfying protein. Due to this power combo of nutrients, snacking on these during cocktail hour may help curb hunger and prevent you from overeating at the main meal. Customize the recipe to your taste preferences by experimenting with different spices and flavors. Make them sweet with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Satisfy a savory craving with garlic and onion powder. The possibilities are endless!

Dark Chocolate Bark

Ingredients: 
• 1 lb dark chocolate chips
• 2 Tbsp. pistachios, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. dried cherries, chopped
• 1 Tbsp. crystallized ginger, chopped

Directions:

1. Melt dark chocolate on the stove or in the microwave.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
3. Pour melted chocolate on top and spread evenly.
4. Top with pistachios, dried cherries, and crystallized ginger.
5. Place in the refrigerator.
6. Let cool and harden for at least 30 minutes.
7. Break into pieces.

Nutrition Perks:

Unlike the white chocolate found in traditional holiday bark, dark chocolate contains high levels of antioxidant-rich cocoa. Antioxidants reduce cancer risk by protecting cells from damage. Ginger and cherries both have anti-inflammatory properties, which can decrease muscle soreness and help prevent a number of diseases. Pistachios are nutrition powerhouses. They are excellent sources of gut-friendly fiber, muscle-building protein, and heart-healthy unsaturated fat. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, potassium and vitamin B6. These nutrients play key roles in everything from metabolism to blood pressure regulation and muscle contraction.

The high-quality ingredients and unique flavors of this bark mean you are more likely to be satisfied with a smaller portion. And as with all treats, moderation is key – during the holiday season and beyond.

This recipe is also fully customizable. Swap in your favorite dried fruit, such as cranberries or unsweetened coconut flakes, for the cherries. Change out the pistachios for another nut, such as pecans or almonds. Add crushed pretzels or even a crispy cereal to satisfy a salty or crunchy craving. You really can’t go wrong!

For more support during the holiday season and beyond, Good Measure Meals offers a full range of resources, from ready-to-eat fresh meal plans to individual nutrition counseling. Check out their website to learn more about available services, and their blog for healthy recipes, insights, and inspiration.

Give yourself a break from the kitchen this season and enjoy 10% off with code MIZUNO at checkout.