One of the best parts of the holiday season is being able to enjoy delicious food with friends and loved ones. It’s a time to make and share the cherished family recipes and tasty treats that only make the rounds once a year — and there’s plenty of room for healthy options as well. Not sure what to make to feed a crowd while staying on track with your nutritional goals? No worries — we’re sharing our favorites here!
Whether you’re heading to a potluck, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these recipes are sure to please (while supporting your healthy lifestyle)! We’re also sharing our top self-care tips reminders for feeling grounded and supported all season long.
5 recipes to bring to a festive potluck
Recipe 1: Sweet potato casserole
Oven-baked sweet potatoes are a holiday classic. If you’re looking for a healthy new twist on this dish for your next party, we have you covered! Sweet potatoes offer more than flavor — they’re also a nutrient-rich, low-calorie food with plenty of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. Our sweet potato casserole recipe is all about balance — baked rather than fried, with a delicate touch of sweet flavors like mini marshmallows and maple syrup or honey.
Recipe 2: Easy herb-baked salmon
A delicious swap for heavier meats like beef and pork, salmon is perfect year-round, but especially as a go-to for holiday gatherings and potlucks. Rich in protein, potassium, vitamin D, and other nutrients, salmon has lots of health benefits and is an accessible, easy-to-prepare dish that still feels special for the holidays.
While some recipes call for sweet glazes like honey garlic or even brown sugar, ours keeps it simple and classic to achieve the tasty results you want without compromising on nutrition.
Pro tip: If you’re taking this dish to an event outside your home, use a tin foil liner under the fish while cooking, and wrap the salmon right away when done baking to preserve flavor.
Recipe 3: Slow-cooker raspberry chipotle pork tenderloin
This colorful and flavorful dish is a great fit for your holiday festivities. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have tons of time to cook something for your next gathering, fear not! This dish can be prepared in just 10 minutes, leaving the rest to the slow-cooker. Just be sure to start it early in the day, as it cooks for several hours, depending on whether you choose high or low heat. With a blend of flavors like spicy chipotle peppers and raspberries, this slow-cooker tenderloin is rich in protein with a mouth-watering taste. Share the love this season by making your own version to share with family and friends!
Recipe 4: Super easy oven-roasted vegetables
Oven-roasted veggies are a crowd-pleaser, complementing any and every dish at a potluck. Tasty, colorful, and nutritious, this easy veggie brings flavor variety and nutrition to the table. Follow our recipe exactly for a delicious dish we know you’ll love, or get creative by adding seasonal, local veggies to the mix. If you have leftovers, this healthy option also makes for a great staple to keep in your fridge this time of year.
Recipe 5: Traditional grilled Greek kabobs
Grilled kabobs aren’t just for summer. This crowd-friendly appetizer is perfect for parties and mingling all year round. Our kabob recipe includes both protein and nutrients, with bite-sized ingredients like chicken, cherry tomatoes, and artichoke hearts. Grilled Greek kabobs are sure to be appreciated as a refreshing addition to your next holiday gathering. Between the hearty meals and sugary desserts, these offer a lighter snack or side — perfect for anyone being mindful of healthy options this season.
Pro tip: If you have several holiday events or potlucks on your calendar, keep extra vegetables for kabobs on your grocery list so you can make an arrangement in a pinch — that way you’ll be prepared for each event, no hassle needed.
Holiday season mindfulness tips for personal wellness
While the holidays can be filled with joy, community, and traditions, they can also be challenging. If you’re feeling pressure or anxiety about the food that comes with this time of year, here are a few helpful reminders:
- Preparing a go-to meal or snack you love for events can be empowering. Preparing something (and perhaps sharing your favorite healthy dish with others) ensures you’ll have a meal or snacking option you feel good about. This can also help keep the focus on socializing and enjoying yourself.
- Take care of your body and mind with practices that work for you. If you find relaxation through journaling, meditation, a hot bath, or a phone call with a close friend, prioritize extra time for feeling grounded and cared for. The holidays can be stressful and busy, so slowing down with intention will keep you feeling balanced.
- Be gentle with yourself and ask for support when you need it. As much as possible, give yourself grace during what can be a hectic time of year. If food or other aspects of the holiday are difficult, allowing yourself to be human and imperfect along the way can make a big difference. If you need support, a hug, or a listening ear from someone you trust, ask for help. Find additional tips for getting back on track after the holidays here.
More recipe inspiration for the holiday season
We’re here to answer key questions and help keep you on track with healthy habits. Find more nutrition resources on the Anytime Fitness blog, including step-by-step recipes and educational articles.
