Cooking and Great Danes
As another year approaches, it’s always good to reflect and list out those things that worked well as we get ready for a fresh healthy start. The New Year always makes me pull out those healthy recipes. Including those that can be prepped ahead to make it easier when weeknights get hectic. It ensures that I won’t fall into the “let’s just order out” mentality.
One thing I find important when considering what might be considered “healthy”, is the nutrient content. Living by the concept of “food as fuel”, this becomes even more important. My goal is to focus on nutrient dense foods and recipes, and eliminate processed food as much as possible. Below are my top 15 recipes as the New Year approaches!
15 Healthy Recipes to start the New Year!
Breakfast
These are not just your traditional waffles. They are highly nutritious and nutrient dense. The waffles can be made ahead and popped into the toaster for a quick breakfast. Also, they make a great snack when on the run!
Fresh homemade granola is so wonderful, not only because it truly is so easy to make, but you can control what goes in it! The nuts do add healthy fat, however, you can omit or reduce as needed to make this your own.
Dips/Sauces/Spreads
Beets have so many benefits: helps reduce inflammation, increases blood flow, and so many other great benefits. This recipe makes a great after workout or mid afternoon snack.
Creamy flavorful sauce that replaces heavy cream. The roasted garlic makes this a great cause for pasta, rice, or over vegetables.
Main Dishes
Hearty plant-based weeknight meal. Quick and easy.
Vegan Creamed Asparagus on Toast with Roasted Chick Peas
Nutritious weeknight meal. Make sauce ahead for quicker prep.
Sides/Salads
Delicious nutritious side salad. The celery adds a nice crunch and the vinaigrette has a crisp fresh flavor.
Arugula Salad with Roasted Delicata Squash and Balsamic Vinagrette
Arugula is high in vitamins and minerals! Makes for a perfect lunch or as a side salad.
Soups
Roasted Tomato and Garlic Soup
Fresh flavorful soup, perfect any season soup!
Creamy Easy Roasted Cauliflower & Garlic Soup
Nutritious low calorie soup.
Warm healthy soup.
This Broccoli Cheddar Soup replaces the typical heavy cream used in traditional recipes with plant-based milk and cream. And uses less cheddar cheese while not sacrificing flavor!
Dessert
If your going to have dessert make it worth it with this delicious nutritious brilliantly colorful dessert!
While this technically is listed as a dessert cookie, it also makes for a great nutritious snack! I love to take these on my bike rides!
Drinks
Get your greens and fruit in one delicious drink!