We’re sharing some healthy Christmas side dish ideas if you’re planning for the holidays!
Hello friends! How are you? I hope you had a wonderful weekend! We had our Fighter Group Christmas party, I taught a barre class and saw Wicked for the third time. I’ll probably see it at least one more time in theaters. I think Pilot needs to see it! The girls and I also started the Christmas baking party and made peppermint bark and peanut butter blossoms.
I’m starting to plan our Christmas menus and was trying to think of ideas for sides. Of course, my favorite part of the holidays is being with family, but the delicious food comes a close second 😉 Main courses always take center stage, along with desserts, but side dishes are an easy way to add some color and nutrition . I like side dishes that are easy to prepare or can be made ahead, and these options tick all the boxes!
Here is our Christmas menu for this year:
Lunch:
Nana’s Egg Casserole
Fruit salad
Coffee, mimosas, desserts.
Dinner:
giant cheese board
Beef tenderloin with horseradish sauce
Mashed sweet potatoes
Green salad
Mulled wine and champagne
Dessert tray – Christmas cookies, Christmas log
*It is worth noting here that we source our meat from butcherbox (<—this link gives you free ground beef for life!) and I order the Yule log from my girlfriend's local bakery.
10 healthy Christmas side dishes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Pecan Topping
Sweet potatoes are a classic holiday staple and this dish transforms them into a lightly sweetened casserole that feels delicious but is packed with nutrients.
Why it’s great: Naturally sweet and rich in vitamins, this dish is perfect with roast meats or vegetarian main dishes.
Health highlights: Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
I also love mashed sweet potatoes with cinnamon and butter.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries and Walnuts
Brussels sprouts are given a festive touch with tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts, making it an ideal side dish recipe for Christmas dinner.
Why it’s great: The combination of earthy buds, sweet cranberries, and pecans is irresistible.
Health highlights: Brussels sprouts are a great source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium. It’s funny to me that when I was a kid, Brussels sprouts were rumored to be the most disgusting vegetable. When I finally tried them (maybe when I was 20?) I was left waiting. These things are really amazing.
Cauliflower and Potato Puree with Garlic and Herbs
This creamy cauliflower dish is a healthy version of traditional mashed potatoes and a great option for those looking to cut back on carbs.
Why it’s great: It’s velvety, flavorful, and pairs wonderfully with any Christmas dinner main course. I like to use the immersion blender to make them super smooth.
Health highlights: Cauliflower is low in calories and rich in vitamin C and phytonutrients.
Citrus and Fennel Salad
Brighten up your Christmas meal with this refreshing and tasty salad with oranges, fennel and arugula.
Why it’s great: A light and citrus garnish that cleanses the palate and balances richer dishes.
Health highlights: Packed with vitamin C, antioxidants and fiber.
Roasted vegetables with balsamic
This simple but elegant dish Combine root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes with a tangy balsamic glaze.
Why it’s great: The caramelized balsamic glaze adds a burst of flavor that complements roasted meats or vegetarian main dishes.
Health highlights: Tubers are full of fiber and essential vitamins such as beta-carotene.
Here is a simple recipe.
Maple-Thyme Glazed Carrots
Bright, sweet and slightly salty, these carrots add a pop of color to your holiday table and are easy to prepare, too.
Why they are great: The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs perfectly with the light maple glaze, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they are loaded with beta-carotene and fiber.
Pairs well with: Roasted turkey or baked ham with honey.
Healthy Tip: Swap the butter for olive oil to keep this dish heart healthy.
Vegan Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad
A refreshing yet filling side dish that’s perfect for guests with dietary restrictions.
Why they are great: This festive salad combines chewy wild rice, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts for a dish rich in texture and flavor. It’s also packed with antioxidants and whole grains.
Pairs well with: Stuffed or roasted pumpkins.
Healthy Tip: Use unsweetened dried cranberries to reduce added sugar.
Parmesan Crusted Cauliflower Steaks
These elegant cauliflower steaks make a bold statement and please vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Why they are great: Cauliflower is a low-carb, nutrient-packed alternative to heavier sides, and the Parmesan crust adds a satisfying crunch.
Pairs well with: Prime rib or roast chicken.
Pomegranate and Citrus Kale Salad
A bright, refreshing salad that balances the richness of other Christmas dishes.
Why it’s great: Pomegranate seeds add a festive touch, while citrus vinaigrette brightens the kale.
Pairs well with: Stuffed turkey or grilled salmon.
Healthy Tip: Massage the kale with olive oil to make it less chewy and easier to digest.
This looks vibrant and delicious.
Quinoa pilaf with herbs and toasted almonds
A versatile, nutrient-dense side dish that brings a light nutty flavor to your holiday table.
Why it’s great: Quinoa is a complete protein, making it a fantastic option for vegetarians. The addition of fresh herbs and crunchy almonds gives it a delicious texture and earthy, festive flavors.
Pairs well with: Roasted turkey, grilled salmon or stuffed portobello mushrooms.
Healthy Tip: Add some dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a sweet and sour pop of color and flavor.
This It looks light and delicious and is easy to make ahead.
How to eat healthy at Christmas
Staying healthy during Christmas doesn’t mean missing out on festive fun; Also, remember that it’s really about what happens in your routine the other 364 days of the year.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy the holiday season without compromising your wellness goals:
First fill up on vegetables: Fill your plate with nutrient-dense sides, like roasted Brussels sprouts or salads, before diving into heavier dishes. To balance blood sugar, I like to eat vegetables first, then proteins, and goats last.
Watch your portion sizes: Eat mindfully, enjoy the company around you, and stop when you feel full.
Stay active: Incorporate some movement into your day, whether it’s a family walk after dinner or a morning yoga session. I love sculpture society for quick workouts at home.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid confusing thirst with hunger and to balance your cocktails.
Eat protein: I feel like Christmas dinners tend to include protein dishes as the main dish, so load up!
Check out more tips on how to stay healthy on vacation here.
More of our favorite Christmas dishes are here!
So tell me friends: will you be cooking this year? What’s on the menu? Share the products in the comments section! Do you prepare traditional Christmas food or do you diversify? One year we had Chinese food with my dad and it was amazing, and when we lived in Valdosta we did surf and turf.
xoxo
gina
