We’re headed for the holiday season at full speed and trying to figure out ways to keep everybody snack-happy without starting 2024 with a mouthful of cavities. We put our heads together and came up with some healthier options that will send your holiday guests home with happy plates and full bellies!
Roasted Nuts
You won’t need an open fire to get the delicious flavor of roasted nuts this year–just some of your favorite nuts and some savvy seasoning!
– Ingredients:
– Mixed nuts (like almonds, walnuts, and cashews)
– Olive oil or coconut oil
– Spices (like rosemary or cinnamon)
– Preparation:
– Toss the nuts in a bit of oil and your choice of spices. Roast them in the oven until they’re golden brown.
Vegetable Platter with Hummus
This colorful and festive favorite will not only offer a healthy alternative to a platter full of nachos but a beautiful looking spread to your holiday atmosphere!
– Ingredients:
– A variety of colorful, fresh vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
– Hummus
– Preparation:
– Arrange the cut veggies on a platter with a bowl of hummus in the center for dipping.
Stuffed Dates
Indulge in treats fit for royalty with delicious and decadent stuffed dates. They’re not only stuffed with flavor–they’re full of nutrients, too!
– Ingredients:
– Medjool dates
– Nuts or seeds
– Optional: dark chocolate drizzle
– Preparation:
– Slice the dates open and stuff them with nuts or seeds. Drizzle with a bit of melted dark chocolate if desired.
Greek Yogurt Parfaits
Parfaits are a classic crowd pleaser, and this take featuring Greek yogurt will substitute some of the sugar without sacrificing the delicious sweetness that makes a parfait par-fect for your get together!
– Ingredients:
– Greek yogurt
– Fresh fruits (like berries or pomegranate seeds)
– Nuts or granola
– Preparation:
– Layer the yogurt, fruits, and nuts or granola in a glass. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
Kale Chips
Okay, okay we know kale isn’t as high on the list of favorites as some of the other options we’ve shared so far, but give this easy-peasy option a fair shake (in some of your favorite seasonings) before you toss it out as a holiday treat option.
– Ingredients:
– Fresh kale leaves
– Olive oil
– Seasonings (like nutritional yeast, garlic powder, or chili flakes)
– Preparation:
– Toss kale leaves in olive oil and seasonings. Bake until crispy.
Serving Tips
– Presentation: Make your snacks visually appealing by using colorful ingredients and arranging them artistically on serving plates or boards.
– Balance: Offer a variety of textures and flavors to cater to different taste preferences.
– Customization: Feel free to adapt these recipes according to your dietary needs and taste preferences.
Enjoy your healthy holiday snacks that will not only satisfy your cravings but also provide you with essential nutrients!