Stay healthy during Christmas, delicious healthy recipes for festive season

Oh, the best part of the year… Christmas. The season when everyone tends to exaggerate with eating, calories, fatty foods, and unhealthy habits. I’ve been there in the past, and let me tell you this: the following days felt awful. I used to start every new year with crazy hormonal imbalances due to heavy meals and extra sugar, and I was feeling completely off.

So, in the last few years, I’ve become much more conscious about my habits during Christmas and the festive season in general. This doesn’t mean I’m not enjoying it, it just means I’m being more loving to myself and my health.

Now, I’ll take you through my favorite delicious, healthy recipes for Christmas, so you can enjoy the holidays while taking care of your health as a woman.

Healthy Roast Turkey with Wholegrain Stuffing and Light Gravy

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Why this version is healthier

Traditional roast turkey recipes often call for large amounts of conventional butter, white bread stuffing, and gravy thickened with refined flour. While delicious, this combination is heavy in saturated fats, refined carbs, and can leave you feeling sluggish and bloated.

In this recipe, we swap:

• Butter with Grass-fed butter: higher in omega-3s and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, K2), making it a better fat choice.
• White bread stuffing with Wholegrain bread stuffing: richer in fiber, which helps stabilize blood sugar and improves digestion.
• Refined flour in gravy with Whole wheat flour (or oat flour): adds more nutrients and lowers the glycemic impact.

This way, you get the festive flavors you love, but with ingredients that are kinder to your hormones, digestion, and overall energy.

Ingredients (serves 6–8)

For the turkey:

• 1 whole turkey (about 4–5 kg / 9–11 lbs)
• 4 tbsp grass-fed butter, softened
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the stuffing:

• 6 cups wholegrain bread, cut into cubes and lightly toasted
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 green apple, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the healthy gravy:

• Pan drippings from the turkey
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (low sodium)
• 1 tbsp whole wheat flour (or oat flour)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

1. Prepare the turkey (15 minutes prep, 2.5–3 hours roasting):

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix grass-fed butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, sage, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Gently lift the skin and rub half of the butter mixture under the skin, then spread the rest on top.
4. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large pan. Cover loosely with foil.
5. Roast for about 2.5–3 hours (about 13–15 minutes per pound / 30 minutes per 500 g), basting occasionally. Remove foil in the last 45 minutes for golden skin.

2. Make the stuffing (20 minutes):

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet, add onion and celery, cook until soft.
2. Add apple cubes, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook 3 minutes more.
3. Combine mixture with toasted wholegrain bread cubes. Mix well.
4. Bake separately in a dish at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes, until golden on top.

3. Prepare the gravy (10 minutes):

1. After the turkey is done, pour the pan drippings into a saucepan.
2. Add broth, bring to a simmer.
3. Whisk in flour slowly to avoid lumps.
4. Cook 5 minutes until thickened. Season to taste.

Total Time

• Prep: 30–35 minutes
• Cooking: 3 hours
• Total: 3.5 hours

Let’s keep going with the next one which I love, maybe even more than the original one. Ready?

Lightened-Up Mashed Potatoes with Cauliflower

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Why this version is healthier

Mashed potatoes are a true Christmas comfort food. The only downside? The classic version is usually loaded with heavy cream, whole milk, and lots of butter. While it tastes amazing in the moment, it can leave you feeling overly full and sluggish right when you want to feel festive and energetic.

Here’s my healthy swap:

• Half potatoes, half cauliflower: You keep the creamy texture, but cut down on starch and calories. Cauliflower adds fiber and vitamins without compromising the flavor.
• Greek yogurt instead of cream: This makes the mash tangy, protein-rich, and much lighter on your digestion.
• Grass-fed butter or olive oil in moderation: A small amount is enough to keep it rich, without overloading on saturated fats.

I honestly prefer this version now. every time I make it, I notice my energy stays much more stable. Plus, nobody at the table ever complains… in fact, they’re usually surprised it’s lighter than the traditional one.

Ingredients (serves 6)

• 3 medium potatoes (about 600 g / 1.3 lbs), peeled and chopped
• ½ head cauliflower (about 400 g / 0.9 lbs), cut into florets
• 3 tbsp Greek yogurt (unsweetened)
• 2 tbsp grass-fed butter (or olive oil)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

1. Cook the vegetables (20 minutes):

1. Place potatoes and cauliflower florets in a large pot.
2. Cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
3. Cook until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well.

2. Mash and mix (5 minutes):

1. Mash the potatoes and cauliflower together until smooth.
2. Stir in Greek yogurt, butter (or olive oil), salt, and pepper.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3. Serve (2 minutes):

1. Transfer to a serving bowl.
2. Garnish with fresh chives.

Total Time

• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total: 30 minutes

This is the dish I always end up taking seconds of…without any guilt. It’s creamy, cozy, and gives you all the Christmas feels, but you don’t end up with that heavy “food coma” sensation afterward.

Green Beans with Garlic & Almonds

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Why this version is healthier

The traditional American Green Bean Casserole is a staple on Christmas tables, but let’s be honest: it usually comes from cans and processed ingredients. The base is often cream of mushroom soup, topped with fried onions from a bag. While nostalgic, it’s heavy, processed, and doesn’t really let the vegetables shine.

Here’s what we do differently:

• Fresh green beans instead of canned: packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Garlic & olive oil instead of canned soup: heart-healthy fats and natural flavor without the heaviness.
• Toasted almonds instead of fried onions: crunchy, satisfying, and a great source of vitamin E and minerals.

The result is fresh, light, and still festive. Personally, I love this swap because it feels so much closer to real food, you’re celebrating vegetables instead of drowning them. And let’s face it, during Christmas, having one or two fresh-tasting sides on the table really helps balance everything out.

Ingredients (serves 6)

• 400 g (14 oz) fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 40 g (⅓ cup) sliced almonds
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

Preparation

1. Cook the beans (5 minutes):

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add green beans and cook for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Drain and transfer immediately to a bowl of ice water (to keep them bright green).

2. Flavor boost (5 minutes):

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in green beans, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2 minutes.

3. Add crunch (2 minutes):

1. Sprinkle with toasted almonds.
2. Optional: add a little lemon zest before serving for a fresh, festive kick.

Total Time

• Prep: 5 minutes
• Cooking: 10 minutes
• Total: 15 minutes

Every time I make this, someone at the table asks for the recipe, probably because it feels so fresh compared to the usual creamy casseroles. It’s one of those dishes that remind you healthy food can be festive, too.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans & Cinnamon

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Why this version is healthier

Candied yams with marshmallows are a classic American holiday dish… but honestly, they’re more like dessert than a side. They’re usually drenched in brown sugar, corn syrup, and topped with a gooey layer of marshmallows. It’s festive, yes, but it’s also a blood sugar rollercoaster waiting to happen.

Here’s how we keep the cozy holiday vibe without the sugar crash:

• Skip the marshmallows → use natural sweetness: a drizzle of honey or maple syrup gives enough caramelization without the overload.
• Add warming spices (cinnamon & nutmeg): festive flavors that naturally enhance sweetness.
• Top with toasted pecans instead of sugar coating: crunchy, nutrient-dense, and full of healthy fats.

The result is a dish that tastes indulgent, but actually supports stable energy levels. Personally, this is one of my favorites because it feels like comfort food and a side dish at the same time, it doesn’t push you into dessert territory before dessert even arrives.

Ingredients (serves 6)

• 3 medium sweet potatoes (about 800 g / 1.7 lbs), peeled and cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp honey or pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp sea salt
• 50 g (½ cup) pecans, roughly chopped

Preparation

1. Roast the sweet potatoes (30 minutes):

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Place sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, honey/maple syrup, sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Toss to coat evenly.
5. Roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until golden and tender.

2. Add the crunch (5 minutes):

1. During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle pecans on top.
2. Let them toast lightly in the oven.

3. Serve (immediate):

1. Transfer to a serving dish.
2. Optional: add a final drizzle of honey/maple if you like extra sweetness.

Total Time

• Prep: 10 minutes
• Cooking: 30 minutes
• Total: 40 minutes

I used to dread the marshmallow-topped version, it always felt too sweet for the middle of dinner. But this healthier take has become such a favorite at my table. The roasted pecans make it feel rich and festive, without the sugar overload

Healthy Pumpkin Pie (Still a Real Pie!)

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Why this version is healthier

Pumpkin Pie is probably the most iconic American holiday dessert. The classic recipe is often made with white flour crust, sweetened condensed milk, and loads of refined sugar. It’s delicious but not exactly friendly to your blood sugar or hormones.

Here’s how we make it healthier without losing the pie experience:

• Wholegrain crust instead of white flour crust: higher in fiber and more nutrients, which slows down the sugar spike.
• Grass-fed butter or coconut oil instead of shortening: cleaner fats that support hormone health.
• Pumpkin puree + almond (or oat) milk instead of condensed milk: lighter, creamy, and much easier to digest.
• Natural sweeteners (maple syrup or honey) instead of white sugar: lower glycemic impact and adds richer flavor.
• Lots of warm spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, they bring the holiday magic without needing as much sugar.

Honestly, this version tastes just as comforting as the classic (if not better) because the flavors of pumpkin and spices shine instead of being drowned in sweetness.

Ingredients (1 pie, serves 8)

For the crust:

• 1 ½ cups (180 g) whole wheat flour (or a mix of whole wheat + oat flour)
• ½ cup (100 g) grass-fed butter or coconut oil, chilled and cubed
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 3–4 tbsp cold water
• Pinch of salt

For the filling:

• 2 cups (450 g) pumpkin puree (fresh or canned, unsweetened)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240 ml) almond milk (or oat/regular milk)
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) maple syrup or honey
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp cloves (optional, for stronger flavor)
• Pinch of salt

Preparation

1. Make the crust (15 minutes + chill):

1. In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
2. Add cold butter/coconut oil and rub into flour with your fingers until crumbly.
3. Add maple syrup and just enough cold water to form a dough.
4. Shape into a ball, wrap, and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.

2. Pre-bake the crust (10 minutes):

1. Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit into a 9-inch pie pan.
3. Poke holes with a fork and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven.

3. Prepare the filling (5 minutes):

1. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, almond milk, maple syrup, spices, and salt until smooth.

4. Bake the pie (40–45 minutes):

1. Pour filling into the pre-baked crust.
2. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 40–45 minutes, until the center is just set.
3. Let cool completely before slicing (it firms up as it cools).

Total Time

• Prep: 25 minutes
• Chill: 30 minutes
• Baking: 55 minutes
• Total: ~1 hour 50 minutes (mostly hands-off)

This pie is proof that healthier doesn’t mean less indulgent. I served it last Christmas, and nobody noticed the changes, except they all asked for seconds. The texture is creamy, the crust is buttery, and the spices make the whole kitchen smell like Christmas.

My Final Thoughts

I used to start every new year with that heavy, sluggish feeling,the kind that comes after too many sugar-loaded desserts and overly rich meals. At first, I thought it was just part of the holiday tradition, something everyone had to go through. But then I noticed how much it affected my mood, my hormones, and even the way I looked at myself when January rolled around.

That’s why I started making small changes. Swapping refined ingredients for whole ones, choosing grass-fed butter over the cheap kind, cutting down the sugar without cutting out the flavor. It wasn’t about being “perfect,” it was about being more loving to my body!even during the holidays.

The funny thing? I enjoyed Christmas even more. I didn’t have to drag myself into the new year feeling exhausted and out of balance. Instead, I felt lighter, more energetic, and much more in tune with myself.

So when you try these healthier Christmas recipes, you’re supporting your hormones, stabilizing your blood sugar, and giving your body the kind of nourishment that keeps you glowing well into January.

And isn’t that the best gift you could give yourself?

✨ Here’s to a Christmas that tastes amazing, feels good, and sets you up for a healthier, happier new year