Healthy Holiday Dishes your Family will actually LOVE

Blog Post by Chef Lisa Brown

The holidays don’t have to mean food comas and sugar crashes. These three flavorful dishes are vibrant, comforting, and perfect for gatherings. They’re the same style of meals I prepare for my in-home chef clients who want to keep things fresh, festive, and satisfying during the season—without feeling weighed down afterward.

Whether you're hosting, attending a potluck, or simply trying to keep healthier options on the table, these dishes bring color, nourishment, and that cozy holiday feeling.

Roasted Butternut Squash & Cranberry Wild Rice Salad

Ingredients

1 cup wild rice, cooked

2 cups butternut squash, cubed

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp smoked paprika

¼ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup chopped pecans (optional)

2 handfuls fresh spinach

Salt & pepper

Dressing:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

1 tbsp maple syrup

1 tsp Dijon

Pinch sea salt

Instructions

1. Toss squash with oil, cinnamon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.

2. Add warm wild rice to a bowl with spinach.

3. Toss in squash, cranberries, and pecans.

4. Whisk dressing and pour on top.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

Ingredients

1 head cauliflower, chopped

2 cloves garlic

2 tbsp vegan or regular butter

Splash of unsweetened almond milk

Salt & pepper

Fresh chives

Instructions

1. Steam cauliflower until very soft.

2. Blend with garlic, butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.

3. Top with chives and fresh cracked pepper.

Naturally Sweetened Holiday Apple Crisp

Ingredients

Filling:

5 apples, thinly sliced

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp maple syrup

1 tsp cinnamon

Topping:

1 cup rolled oats

¼ cup almond flour

2 tbsp coconut oil

2 tbsp maple syrup

Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Mix apple filling and add to a baking dish.

2. Combine oat topping and crumble over apples.

3. Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes.

Want These Kinds of Meals Cooked Right in Your Home?

If you love the idea of eating vibrant, healthy dishes this season—but don’t have the time to prep, chop, cook, and clean—We offer personal chef services cooked directly in your home.

www.freeflowinghealth.com