We’ve all been there: December has come and gone, and with it all the cookies, turkey, and sweet treats.
Come January, we’re ready to get back on track!
While there’s nothing wrong with setting your goals high, sometimes you need a little wiggle room to keep them within reach. Maybe you’re simply hoping to add more vegetables to your diet – or perhaps you’d just like to cut out that second cup of coffee every morning.
Whatever your resolutions are, don’t be too hard on yourself – sometimes it’s good to indulge (in moderation, of course)! If you’d like to make some healthy changes to your food choices in 2019, we’ve assembled 10 of our favourite healthy(ish) recipes to motivate you well into the new year.
1. Spinach Crepes with Roasted Root Vegetables and Tahini Sauce
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Occasionally Eggs]
For those of you who follow a grain-free or gluten-free diet, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on delicious savoury meals! These spinach crepes require only spinach, water, chickpea flour, and seasoning – and can be paired with your favourite fillings.
2. Coconut Cashew Bars
[Photo cred + find the recipe at The Bewitchin Kitchen]
Three all-natural ingredients and 10 minutes is all you need to prepare these sweet and crunchy coconut cashew bars. Eat them for breakfast or grab them for an on-the-go snack!
3. Sweet & Smoky Pineapple Chipotle Chili
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Pups with Chopsticks]
When you think of chili, the word “healthy” doesn’t usually come to mind. However, this recipe features well-rounded flavours like pineapple, chipotle, gochujang, pork, and maple syrup that make for a sumptuous – and nutritious – meal.
4. Healthier Homemade Alphagetti
[Photo cred + find the recipe at My Kitchen Love]
For parents out there who struggle with convincing their kids to eat real food – we’ve found the perfect shortcut! Dupe their favourite canned meal and make your own homemade noodle and tomato dish with a handful of simple, fresh ingredients.
5. Cauliflower Cheeseburger Casserole
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Food & Whine]
It may not be a salad, but this “healthy” take on beef and pasta boxed meals swaps cauliflower-rich in Vitamins C, K, and B6 – for noodles, and requires real ingredients. For those who are gluten-free, omit the flour, butter, and milk in the roux and replace with a cup of heavy cream and extra cheese!
6. The Ultimate Low-Carb Stir-Fry
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Green Healthy Cooking]
Stir-fry meals are a go-to for any household on a time crunch or a budget. Thankfully, you can adapt your stir-fry to whatever food restrictions or preferences you may have. Add chicken, turkey, shrimp, pork, or beef and sprinkle with a splash of soy sauce.
7. Salted Dark Chocolate Sunflower Seed Butter
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Spice and Sprout]
Make your own natural version of the well-known, crowd-pleasing hazelnut butter – but without the excessive sugar and preservatives! Perfect for anyone with nut allergies! Easily blend together sunflower seeds, coconut oil, dark chocolate, and a little bit of icing sugar and salt for a delectable spread.
8. Duck Ramen (Paleo)
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Flash Fiction Kitchen]
Sweet potato and kelp noodles are life savers whenever those following a gluten- and grain-free diet are craving some pasta. Make this fresh duck ramen with rich broth, bok choy, avocado – and any of your favourite soup toppings!
9. Za’atar Roast Chicken
[Photo cred + find the recipe at i am a food blog]
Impress your friends and family while sticking to your nutrition resolutions at your next dinner party or celebration. Filled to the brim with aromatic spices, olive oil, chicken, and red onion – this dish is so tasty your guests won’t even realize what they’re eating is so good for them!
10. Spicy Cabbage Soup (Vegan)
[Photo cred + find the recipe at Eff Yeah Food]
The cabbage craze has taken off – and for good reason, as the vegetable comes packed with nutrients and is a great source of manganese and fiber. Make your own delicious cabbage soup with ingredients you may already have in your pantry, including canned tomatoes and a plethora of spices.
