As the holiday season approaches, parents want to ensure their little ones enjoy a magical Christmas without compromising on nutrition. The pressure is on to create delicious and nutritious treats that cater to kids’ tastes.
But, let’s face it, many traditional Christmas recipes can be detrimental to our children’s health. This got me thinking – what if I could share with you 32 mouth-watering and wholesome holiday recipes that are not only healthy but also easy to prepare?
Pistachio and Pomegranate Frozen Bark
Christmas is a time for creating lasting memories with your loved ones, and what better way to do so than by sharing in the joy of making holiday treats together? This Pistachio and Pomegranate Frozen Bark is an ideal project to tackle with your kids, as it requires no baking or sharp objects, making it safe and accessible for even the youngest family members. The best part? It’s a treat that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning, with its colorful combination of crunchy pistachios and sweet pomegranate seeds. And at just 5 minutes to prepare, you can easily fit it into your busy holiday schedule. To start, combine maple syrup and Greek yogurt in a bowl, then spread the mixture onto a silicone baking tray. Top with pistachio nuts and pomegranate seeds, giving them a gentle tap or two to help them settle into place. Finally, pop the tray into the freezer for 4 hours before breaking the frozen bark into bite-sized pieces. With its nutritious mix of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, this treat is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Brussel Sprout Chips
It’s no secret that kids tend to despise Brussels sprouts, and it’s not hard to understand why. The strong aversion to bitter tastes can be overwhelming for young palates. That’s where my innovative approach comes in – by transforming these veggies into crispy chips through the baking process rather than steaming. This caramelization process tames the bitterness, rendering the Brussels sprouts surprisingly sweet. To further enhance the flavor profile, I’ve added a blend of seasonings including oregano, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, which contribute savory and spicy notes. The finishing touch? A sprinkle of parmesan cheese powder that adds a delightful cheesiness to each bite. With this recipe, you can enjoy the health benefits of Brussels sprouts while pleasing even the pickiest eaters.
Air Fryer Carrot Fries
In addition to their savory appeal, kids are naturally drawn to sweet treats. Harnessing this aspect can be a great way to get your little ones on board with healthy eating. The Air Fryer Carrot Fries recipe is a perfect example of how to make the most of this natural inclination. Carrots, as we know, have an inherent sweetness that’s only amplified when they’re fried. Add to this the caramelized flavor from the browning process and the sweetness factor becomes even more irresistible. But it doesn’t stop there – the inclusion of maple syrup and ground cinnamon takes things to a whole new level of sweetness. It’s a winning combination that’s sure to delight kids. And the best part? These Air Fryer Carrot Fries are not just a treat, but also a nutritious one. They’re rich in Vitamins C and A, providing an immune system boost for your little ones. Plus, they contain fiber which promotes healthy digestion. To make these delicious treats, you’ll need an air fryer – an appliance that allows you to cook with minimal oil. This not only makes the recipe healthier but also reduces waste and mess. If you don’t have an Air Fryer, you can still get one at a reasonable price. Per serving, the nutritional breakdown is as follows: Calories 62, Fats 1g, Protein 1g, Carbs 12g, Fiber 3g, Sugar 6g.
Cashew Energy Balls
As the aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through your home, it’s understandable that you’d want to take a break from the oven. Enter my no-bake Cashew Energy Balls – a simple yet satisfying treat that requires only 5 ingredients and minimal effort. To make these bite-sized wonders, start by processing raw cashews in a food processor until they reach a flour-like consistency (I recommend this 10-cup model for its versatility). Add the remaining ingredients – soft dates, vanilla extract, sea salt, and shredded coconut – and pulse until smooth. Shape into small balls or use a cookie scoop for uniform results. Finally, refrigerate to chill before serving. With only 48 calories per serving, these energy-boosting treats are the perfect indulgence when you need a break from baking. Here’s the nutritional breakdown: Calories: 48, Fats: 3.7g, Protein: 1.2g, Carbs: 6.1g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 3.9g.
Strawberry Santa Claus Hats
Do you make it a holiday tradition to visit Santa at the mall with your kids? If so, you’re likely no stranger to lengthy lineups. But the joy on their faces as they share their wishes with the jolly old elf is well worth the wait. After all, there’s only one Santa Claus! To add an extra layer of excitement to this special experience, consider whipping up a batch of these Strawberry Santa Claus Hats. Not only are they ridiculously cute, but they’re also surprisingly tasty. The best part? They can be prepared in just 15 minutes, yielding 12 adorable treats. Start by trimming the tops and leaves from your strawberries. Then, place one on top of each mini donut. Secure them with a toothpick, which will also help hold everything together. Finally, add two mini marshmallows to cover any exposed toothpick. This sweet and festive treat is sure to bring a smile to your little ones’ faces. Per serving: Calories 115, Fats 4g, Protein 1g, Carbs 20g, Fiber 1g, Sugar 13g.
Beet Hummus
Making veggies appealing to kids during the holiday season can be a daunting task. A key strategy is to serve tasty dips that cater to their palates, such as my Beet Hummus. This unique twist on traditional hummus adds cooked beets, which bring natural sweetness and a pop of color to the dish. As a result, kids are more likely to give it a try and enjoy the creamy texture from the tahini and chickpeas, savory flavors from the spices, and a hint of tanginess from the lemon juice and zest. The sweetness from the beets effectively balances out the tartness, creating a harmonious flavor profile that’s hard to resist. With this recipe, you’ll get 491 calories per serving, along with 39g of fats, 12g of protein, 27g of carbohydrates, 7.8g of fiber, and only 2.3g of sugar.
Chocolate Gingerbread Oatmeal
The tradition of oatmeal for breakfast is one that’s often passed down from generation to generation, and it’s easy to see why. As a wholesome and filling start to the day, oatmeal offers a wealth of benefits – not least of which is its high plant-based protein content, which can help keep kids feeling full until their next meal. Additionally, oatmeal is an excellent source of bone-building minerals, making it a nutritious choice for children’s growing bodies.
But let’s be honest, traditional oatmeal can be a bit… bland. That’s why we’ve taken things up a notch with our Chocolate Gingerbread Oatmeal recipe. By adding in warm gingerbread spices and sweet maple syrup, you’ll give your kids the joy of Christmas flavors to start their day.
And then there’s the raw cacao powder – the real game-changer here. This rich, chocolatey flavor is sure to be a hit with even the most discerning young palates. With its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness from the addition of fresh blueberries, this oatmeal is a treat that’s hard to resist.
Per serving: Calories 274, Fats 3.9g, Protein 8.3g, Carbs 49.2g, Fiber 8.1g, Sugar 13.6g
Almond Flour Thumbprint Cookies
While it’s great to ‘healthify’ your kids’ meals, they do deserve some indulgent treats. One such treat is a delicious cookie filled with homemade jam – it’s sure to make them feel special. What’s more, these cookies are incredibly easy to make and happen to be gluten-free, making them perfect for kids with gluten allergies.
The secret ingredient that makes these cookies stand out is almond flour, a nutritious alternative to traditional wheat flour. Almond flour is rich in phosphorus, which supports bone health, protein to keep tummies full, and mono-unsaturated fats that promote heart health.
But the benefits of almond flour don’t stop there. You can use it to make pancakes or thicken your favorite Christmas recipes – the possibilities are endless.
So why not give almond flour a try? You can get some here.
Per serving:
Calories: 177
Fats: 14g
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 7g
Recipe
Reindeer Christmas Burgers
Happy Meal Burgers, a beloved favorite among kids. Who can resist the charm of those iconic toys? 🎅️ McDonald’s may have stiff competition from these Reindeer Christmas burgers, courtesy of their adorable reindeer design. The creative use of burger buns as faces, sliced black olives for eyes, grape tomatoes for noses, and broken pretzel pieces for antlers is a winning combination. But what really sets these Christmas Burgers apart is the healthier twist: they’re made with ground turkey patties, making them a more nutritious option for kids – and the environment too! Per serving, you can expect: 228 calories, 8g of fats, 16g of protein, 23g of carbs, and a moderate amount of sugar. With this recipe, you’ll be spreading holiday cheer in no time.
Vegan Chocolate Macaroons
Many families are embracing plant-based eating, and it’s not hard to see why. However, this decision can be met with resistance from kids, making the holiday season a potential minefield. To avoid any unnecessary stress, I’d like to introduce you to these Vegan Chocolate Macaroons, which offer a welcome respite from the usual vegan recipes that often require a long list of ingredients. In fact, you may already have most of what you need in your pantry. While they might not be the most kid-friendly option due to their fancy appearance, rest assured that the taste will be a hit with even the most discerning palates. The combination of chocolatey, nutty, and coconut flavors is sure to please, and the best part? They’re completely vegan, so you can enjoy them guilt-free. Per serving, these treats offer a nutritious mix of 125 calories, 8g of fat, 2g of protein, 13g of carbs, 2.5g of fiber, and 8g of sugar.
Veggie Christmas Tree Appetizer
Imagine a holiday season without the iconic Christmas tree. For many, it’s a symbol of joy, togetherness, and festive cheer. But what if you could recreate this tradition using fresh vegetables? It may sound unconventional, but trust us, it’s an idea worth exploring.
Start by arranging cucumber slices into a triangular shape, forming the base of your vegetable Christmas tree. This simple act can also serve as a fun way to teach preschoolers about shapes and geometry. Next, top the ‘tree’ with cherry tomatoes, which will double as your ornaments. Finally, use bell pepper slices to create the star-shaped peak and base.
nunlike traditional Christmas trees, this edible masterpiece is not only visually appealing but also completely edible. So go ahead, indulge in your veggie Christmas tree – it’s a healthy and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season!
Per Serving:
Calories: 22
Fats: 1g
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Recipe: Cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and sliced bell peppers are all you need to bring this unique holiday tradition to life.
Butternut Squash Zucchini Spinach Lasagna
Lasagna is a beloved dinner option, and for many reasons. The combination of gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven. However, what if I told you that you could take this classic dish to the next level by trading in the traditional meat filling for a Butternut Squash Filling? Not only does it add a delightful sweetness, but it also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish. The creamy ricotta cheese provides a wonderful contrast to the squash’s natural sweetness, while a pinch of nutmeg adds a festive flair. In fact, I’d argue that this vegetarian Lasagna is even more satisfying than its meat-based counterpart. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – Butternut Squash is an excellent source of Vitamin A, which is crucial for eye health, bone health, and immunity. It’s also rich in manganese and magnesium, making it a great addition to any meal. So go ahead, indulge in this 414-calorie masterpiece, knowing that you’re not only pleasing your palate but also nourishing your body.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast
Roasting a whole turkey can be a daunting task, especially on Christmas Day when you want to spend quality time with your loved ones. To simplify the process and enjoy more of what the holiday has to offer, consider preparing an Air Fryer Turkey Breast. With only 5 minutes of prep work, this recipe is sure to become a new tradition in your household. Simply rub the turkey breast with oil, massage it with a dry rub and salt, then cook it in the air fryer for one hour. The result is tender and juicy chicken that’s perfect for your holiday feast. By using an Air Fryer, you’ll not only save time but also reduce the stress associated with cooking a large meal. With this recipe, you can focus on what truly matters – making memories with your family.
Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie
As the holiday season approaches, it’s a wonderful time to get the kids outside and enjoying the winter weather. Building snowmen, making snow angels, and even having a friendly snowball fight are all great ways to spend quality time with your little ones.
After working up an appetite, there’s nothing like coming inside to a warm and comforting meal. This Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie is just the thing – it’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with nutritious veggies like carrots, potatoes, and peas.
Not only is this dish hearty and satisfying, but it’s also rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for boosting your child’s immune system. Plus, it’s a great source of potassium, an essential mineral for healthy nerve function.
The best part? This recipe takes just 15 minutes to cook thanks to the Instant Pot – that’s much faster than traditional oven-cooked methods. And with its rich flavors and tender texture, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.
If you’re new to the world of Instant Pots, don’t worry – this recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal prep time. Plus, it serves up to 6 people, making it perfect for your growing family.
This Instant Pot Chicken Pot Pie is delicious on its own, but feel free to serve it with some hot corn biscuits for a truly special treat.
Crispy Corn Fritters
It’s not uncommon for kids to be drawn to sugary breakfast cereals, and while they might be a hit with their taste buds, they aren’t necessarily the healthiest option. When you try to serve up a more wholesome alternative, like Bran cereal, they might not be too thrilled about it.
That’s where these Crispy Corn Fritters come in – they offer a sweet compromise that kids will love and parents can feel good about serving. These fritters have the perfect balance of texture and taste, with a tender interior and crispy exterior.
To take them to the next level, top them off with an egg for an extra boost of protein. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also surprisingly nutritious, making them a great choice for a quick and easy breakfast or snack.
Per serving, these fritters clock in at 100 calories, with 10g of fats, 4g of protein, 20g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and just 3g of sugar. With their unique combination of flavors and textures, it’s no wonder kids will be begging for more.
Crockpot Whole Chicken Recipe
For many families, the traditional holiday turkey is a staple of Christmas gatherings. However, what about those with smaller family sizes? Cooking a whole turkey can be a daunting task, especially when it results in a surplus of leftovers that often go to waste. This Crockpot Whole Chicken recipe offers a practical alternative, serving six people comfortably. With this method, you’ll have enough for your Christmas dinner and even enjoy some satisfying leftovers the next day. The best part? This dish is packed with flavor, thanks to its garlic herb butter coating and aromatic toppings like whole garlic cloves, fresh rosemary, and thyme. Just be prepared for the inevitable garlic breath that follows! Per serving, you can expect: 394 calories, 30g of fat, 24g of protein, 4g of carbohydrates, and a mere 1g of sugar, with no fiber to speak of. This recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite.
Keto Peanut Butter Fudge
With the keto diet being all the rage, it’s likely that you’re among the many who have jumped on board. As Christmas approaches, you might be wondering how to balance your desire to indulge in sweet treats with the need to stick to your low-carb lifestyle. The solution is simple: create some delicious and healthy keto-friendly alternatives that everyone can enjoy. One of these treats is this amazing Keto Peanut Butter Fudge recipe, which has a mere 2.0 grams of net carbs per serving. Not only does it fit seamlessly into your daily macros, but it’s also incredibly rich, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. And the best part? Even your kids won’t suspect that they’re eating something keto-friendly! To make this indulgent treat, you’ll need just five ingredients: natural peanut butter, butter, vanilla extract, salt, and a sugar-free sweetener like powdered erythritol. This all-natural sweetener is perfect for those who want to avoid blood sugar spikes or bitter aftertastes. With its low carb count and impressive nutritional profile – 90 calories, 10g of fat, 2.5g of protein, 2.5g of carbs, 0.5g of fiber, and 1.5g of sugar per serving – this Keto Peanut Butter Fudge is a game-changer for anyone on a keto diet.
Keto Stove Top Stuffing
Stuffing, a delicious and often overlooked side dish, can be improved upon when made with white bread. However, it’s common knowledge that white bread lacks essential nutrients like fiber. Moreover, store-bought bread is frequently filled with preservatives, making it an unhealthy choice. A healthier alternative is to make the bread from scratch, which is exactly what this Keto Stove Top Stuffing recipe offers. The best part? It’s made with mug bread, requiring only a few minutes of your time. The result is not only a healthier option but also a flavorful one, thanks to the umami taste provided by the mushrooms and poultry seasoning. Freshness from the celery and onions adds an extra layer of delight. This recipe far surpasses its packaged counterpart, offering a nutritious and tasty alternative.
Keto Candied Pecans
When it comes to making Christmas dinner, time can be a precious commodity. To keep the kids occupied while you’re busy in the kitchen, having some snacks on hand is a great idea. Not only will this give them something to do, but it’ll also help them stay satisfied until the main event. A perfect example of a kid-friendly snack are these Keto Candied Pecans. Not only do they offer a satisfying crunch, but they also strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty flavors. And let’s not forget about their nutritional benefits – pecans are a rich source of copper, which can help boost your child’s immune system and red blood cell production. They’re also a good source of zinc, which can aid in wound healing and support overall immune function. So go ahead and let the kids indulge in these tasty treats, knowing they’re not only delicious but also nutritious.
Vegan Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
Sneaking veggies into kid-friendly dishes can be a challenge, especially when they’re notorious for detecting even the slightest hint of green. However, with this clever mashed potato recipe, you can effortlessly blend in cauliflower, a nutritional powerhouse, to create a dish that’s both creamy and umami-rich. The secret lies in combining it with potatoes, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast, which not only adds depth of flavor but also boosts the nutritional profile of the dish. In fact, nutritional yeast is an excellent source of plant-based protein, B vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a versatile ingredient to have on hand. You can use it to elevate sauces, stews, or even sprinkle it over popcorn for a fun snack. To get started, simply stock up on some nutritional yeast and follow the recipe below.
Per serving:
Calories: 158
Fats: 5g
Protein: 6g
Carbs: 24.5g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 0g
Keto Peppermint Cream Pie
Christmas is a time to indulge in sweet treats, but it’s essential to consider the impact of sugary foods on our little ones’ health. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to a range of issues, from hyperactivity and brain fog to tooth decay and other oral health problems.
That’s why I’m thrilled to share this Keto Peppermint Cream Pie recipe, which not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also happens to be completely sugar-free! With its flaky crust made from cocoa powder and creamy peppermint filling, this dessert is sure to delight both kids and adults. And the best part? It’s a dentist-approved treat that won’t contribute to any cavities or other oral health issues.
Here are the details:
Per Serving:
Calories: 338
Fats: 36g
Protein: 5g
Carbs: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 0g
Roasted Turkey Breast
Planning a festive Christmas dinner with family and friends? You’re likely eager to ensure your little ones behave themselves around the table. Well, you’re in luck! A show-stopping Roasted Turkey Breast can be just the thing to keep them occupied and delighted. This mouthwatering dish boasts a golden-brown exterior and a tender, juicy interior that’s infused with the rich flavors of garlic herb butter. The key to achieving this perfect balance is to avoid overcooking it – simply aim for an internal temperature of 165°F using a trusty food thermometer. And don’t forget to spread that savory butter under the skin for added moisture and flavor! Here are the details: Per Serving, you can expect approximately 336 calories, with 19g of fats, 49g of protein, 1g of carbs, 1g of fiber, and a hint of sugar.
Green Bean Almondine
When it comes to finding the ideal side dish to accompany your turkey, look no further than this delectable Green Bean Almondine recipe. Not only does its vibrant green color make a stunning presentation, but its bold flavors also deliver a satisfying bite. The secret lies in the harmonious union of tender green beans, sautéed in a zesty lemony butter sauce, and crunchy toasted almonds. This winning combination is sure to delight both kids and adults alike, with each bite offering a perfect balance of textures. Nutritionally speaking, this recipe boasts an impressive per-serving breakdown: 133 calories, 10g of fat, 4g of protein, 8g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and only 3g of sugar.
Keto Vegan Bread Rolls
As the festive aromas of Christmas fill the air, one scent stands out – the tantalizing smell of warm bread rolls. These scrumptious treats are more than just a pleasant accompaniment to your holiday feast; they’re a game-changer for those with dietary restrictions. Not only do they cater to gluten-free, keto, and vegan lifestyles, but they’re also a healthier alternative to traditional bread rolls. With an impressive 4 grams of fiber per serving, these soft and tender morsels will keep you feeling full and satisfied without the guilt. In fact, one roll provides nearly 20% of your daily fiber needs, making them an excellent choice for those looking to indulge in moderation. The nutritional breakdown per serving is as follows: Calories – 82, Fat – 6g, Protein – 3g, Carbs – 3g, Fiber – 4g, Sugar – 1g.
Vegan Sugar-Free Apple Crumble
For families who have adopted a vegan lifestyle, the holiday season can be a challenging time when it comes to dessert options. Many traditional Christmas treats are not vegan-friendly, leaving little room for creativity and indulgence. However, this shouldn’t mean that vegans have to miss out on the sweet treats altogether.
Enter the Vegan Sugar-Free Apple Crumble, a game-changing dessert that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. The combination of spiced apples, bananas, apples, and dates provides a natural sweetness that’s hard to resist, while the crunch from the walnuts adds a satisfying texture. The roll oats, meanwhile, lend a wholesome touch to this delicious dessert.
Not only does this recipe taste amazing, but it also boasts impressive nutritional credentials. With just 243 calories per serving, 6g of fat, 5g of protein, and 45g of carbs, this dessert is a guilt-free indulgence. And with a fiber content of 7g and sugar content of 21g, you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
This Vegan Sugar-Free Apple Crumble is truly a winning dessert that’s sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Keto Peppermint White Hot Chocolate
After indulging in a festive Christmas dinner, there’s nothing like unwinding with a soothing hot beverage. Hot chocolate is a popular choice, but it can be a sugar bomb – one cup can contain up to 24 grams of sugar, equivalent to 6 teaspoons. This can leave your kids feeling hyper and restless. A better alternative is the Keto Peppermint White Hot Chocolate recipe, which not only tastes great but also packs a protein punch. One serving contains a substantial 12 grams of protein, similar to the amount found in two large eggs. This means your kids will be satisfied and full after drinking it. To enhance the protein content, this recipe incorporates gelatin, which is rich in lysine. Lysine promotes strong bones and aids in wound healing. You can also add gelatin to jello for an extra nutritional boost. If you need to stock up on unflavored gelatin, you can find it here. Per serving, this hot chocolate contains: Calories – 166, Fats – 13g, Protein – 12g, Carbs – 2g, Fiber – 0g, Sugar – 12g.