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7 festive recipes for healthy holiday dining

November 14, 2024 | UCI Health
sweet potato casserole topped with mini marshmallows

This marshmallow-topped sweet potato casserole is a delicious, low-cal side dish to savor at holiday gatherings.



Looking for mouthwatering fare to please the crowd yet lighten the calorie count? We’ve got you covered!

When traditional Thanksgiving meals can clock in at 3,000 calories, with appetizers, drinks and desserts potentially adding another 1500, it's helpful to plan ahead.

"It's important to be mindful of portion sizes and calories over the holidays to prevent getting derailed from your nutrition and weight-management goals." says Katie Rankell, a registered dietitian and program director of the UCI Health Weight Management Program.

Here are some of our most popular holiday recipes — all guaranteed to tantalize taste buds while keeping you on track with your health goals.

Pumpkin spice mocktail

Two glasses of pumpkin spice mocktail next to a full carafe served on a wood cutting board with mini pumpkins.

It’s pumpkin spice season but unlike traditional lattes, these mocktails are low-cal and are sure to delight kids, teens and even adults who prefer nonalcoholic beverages.

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Brussel sprouts with goat cheese and walnuts

Brussel sprouts with goat cheese and walnuts is displayed on a white platter.

If you’re craving a decadent holiday side dish that’s also good for you, look no further. Brussel sprouts are full of vitamin C to boost immunity. No small thing during cold and flu season.

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Scrumptious sweet potato casserole

Scrumptious sweet potato casserole is served in a dark green square baking dish stacked atop wood cutting boards.

Sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping is a classic side dish at many holiday get-togethers. Wow your guests with this version, which has all the flavors but fewer calories and fat.

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Stuffed pork tenderloin

Slices of stuffed pork tenderloin covered in sauce displayed on a white plate with lemon garnish.

Want to break away from the usual holiday entrees of turkey, ham or roast beef? This juicy, stuffed pork tenderloin is the perfect change of pace.

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Holiday shrimp paella

Colorful holiday shrimp paella is served in a tarnished metal bowl.

This crowd-pleasing dish not only has all the festive Christmas colors but it’s also light on your wallet and waistline!

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Healthy and tasty pumpkin pie

Delicious low-calorie pumpkin pie shines a bright orange in a white ceramic pie dish.

Pumpkin pie is the traditional finale of the Thanksgiving feast. This reduced-calorie version trims the sugar and fat while delivering the same delicious flavors we love.

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Gingered brown rice pudding

Gingered brown rice pudding is served in a clear bowl with star anise and cinnamon stick.

Who needs gingerbread cookies when you can enjoy this creamy dessert? It's loaded with ginger — an ingredient renowned for its ability to relieve indigestion and boost immune function.

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