Eating out on vacation can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. I often think, “I don’t want my diet to fail in the middle.” But when you’re around so many fun foods, desserts, sweets, and snack foods, it can be hard to find balance on your plate. What if you could enjoy and never feel like you “blew the meal away”?
We spoke directly with a nutrition expert to find out your game plan for this holiday season. They all shared a common belief that indulging in moderation while also bringing food that feels good can balance holiday parties and healthy nutritional choices.
Why Nutritionists Offer These Options
“Bringing veggie dishes to a potluck definitely gives you a variety of options for creating a well-balanced meal, paired with the usual rich meat or casserole dishes.” Bri Bell, RDsharing Frugal Minimalist Kitchen.
Cindy Chow, RDNA chef and registered dietitian at The Sound of Cooking and Cancer Nutrition in a Bowl, she reports that she loves colorful meals. She explained that the focus on fruits and vegetables ensures that the diet has “potassium to help support normal blood pressure and fiber to aid digestion after a holiday meal.” I’m here.
Nutritionist/Cooking Dietitian KeyVion Mirror RDN, LDNshe claims, loves to bring vegetable dishes that “provide fiber and potassium, important nutrients for those suffering from diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.”
“It’s not always easy to find healthy snacks when you’re attending a holiday gathering. Amy Gorin, a plant-based registered dietitian in Stamford, Connecticut. That’s why she recommends opting for options that are high in protein and fiber to help you feel full.
And what will nutritionists bring to holiday parties this year?
Samantha Cassetti, MS, RDNutrition and Wellness Expert, Co-Author sugar shock (also a brand partner of California Walnuts) explained why spiced walnuts are one of her favorite snacks.
“Walnuts are the only nut that provides a good source of the plant-based omega-3 fat ALA and also contain 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per ounce. and vegetarians, so they are a great party snack. I’m here.
“One recent study found that people who consistently ate walnuts had other heart-healthy behaviors, such as better dietary quality and higher levels of physical activity. It suggests that walnuts are a bridge to better health,” she continued.
Get the recipe for Cajun Spiced Walnuts.
“Bringing you my signature side dish: Roasted Delicata Squash with Walnut Crumble! This no-fuss, delicious Nutty Roasted Delicata Squash with Walnut Crumble is an easy treat that everyone will love.” It’s a comforting side dish and the delicatessen squash doesn’t need to be peeled, just sliced and roasted,” says Chef Julie Andrews, MS, RDN, FANDThe Healthy Epicurean founder said: Eat this instead of that!
Get Andrew’s recipe for Delicata Squash with Walnut Crumble.
This seasonal side dish is Chou’s most requested holiday party dish.
“Not only are they sweet and delicious, but they are also rich in nutrients. Fuyu persimmons are high in potassium, which supports normal blood pressure,” Zhou explains. “This dish is also a great source of fibre, with 6 grams per serving, which aids digestion after a holiday meal. Adding fresh lemon juice to finish adds a flavorful touch to the dish.” with added antioxidant properties!”
Obtain Chow’s winter persimmon recipe.
“An easy and fancy appetizer recipe for a party is jam-topped brie. It always looks so impressive and beautiful, but it only takes a few minutes to prepare,” Gorin says. I like to serve it with sliced apples and pears for a healthy addition to .This appetizer provides satiating protein from cheese, fills in fiber from nuts, and berries from berry jam. You also get antioxidants.”
Get the recipe for Brie’s Gorin Topped with Jam.
“Holiday parties aren’t short of meats, carbs, and desserts. They’re usually short of vegetables,” says Miller. “Take a quick side dish with frozen green beans.” Frozen vegetables are packed with freshness.”
Get Miller’s recipe for Cajun Green Beans.
“These gluten-free, bacon-wrapped meatballs are a delicious, protein-packed appetizer that I’ve loved all along! You can make them with beef, turkey, or ground meat in your air fryer.” Lara Clevenger, MSH, RD,state.
Get Clevenger’s recipe for Bacon Wrapped Meatballs.
Lisa Andrews, Medicine, RD, LDand CEO of Sound Bites Nutrition, explains that her go-to holiday party food is a layered hummus dip.
“Great food for vegetarians and vegans. [out] According to Andrews, cheese provides fiber, flavor and phytochemicals. “Serve with your choice of pepper strips, pita chips, or crackers. The plate is empty every time!”
Get Andrew’s recipe for layered hummus.
Michelle Nelson, RDNshares a fun way to eat veggies this holiday season with her cauliflower mac and cheese recipe.
“I love this recipe for several reasons. I added whole wheat penne.Mined before for fiber!Perfect pair!” exclaimed Nelson.
Get Nelson’s recipe for cauliflower mac & cheese.
