Happy & Healthy Holiday Guide

The holidays are full of good food, favorite traditions, and time with the people we love. They can also bring packed calendars, unpredictable mealtimes, and plenty of mixed messages about what we “should” eat. Some advice says to cut the fat, carbs, and calories from every holiday dish. That’s not our style!
Our dietitians put this guide together to help you enjoy the season with confidence. It’s full of practical tips and delicious, dietitian-approved recipes, because healthy holiday eating isn’t about restriction. It’s about making a plan, savoring what you love, and feeling your best along the way.
DOWNLOAD THE HEALTHY HOLIDAY GUIDE HERE – for free!
What’s Inside the Guide
Plating Your Way Through the Holidays. Use the Plate Method to build a balanced plate while still enjoying your favorite holiday dishes. We’ve sorted every recipe in the guide (plus classic favorites like stuffing, ham, and roasted vegetables) into starches, proteins, and non-starchy vegetables, so building your plate is simple!
Know Your Cuts. Ever wonder why a recipe says “dice” instead of “chop”? This quick guide explains the difference between slicing, dicing, and chopping, so your ingredients cook evenly and your recipes turn out right.
Tips for a Healthy Holiday. Six easy strategies to help you feel your best through every gathering.
Repurposing Holiday Leftovers. Creative recipe ideas to give your leftovers a delicious second life.
19 Festive Recipes for Every Part of the Menu. From the first appetizer to the last sip of cocoa, the guide has you covered
Many recipes include helpful tips, like how to make the Peanut Butter Dark Chocolate Dates a day ahead or how to save time on Cauliflower Stuffing with pre-chopped mirepoix.
More Holiday Resources
Cooking for someone with food allergies or intolerances? Check out Navigating the Holidays with Dietary Restrictions for ingredient swaps and gluten-free and dairy-free recipe ideas.
Looking for more ways to enjoy the season? Read Mindful Holiday Celebrations for tips on parties, setting boundaries, and celebrating on your terms.
We also have our Healthy Holiday Series — three online classes to help you make the most of your holiday season. Join our team of Registered Dietitians to brainstorm recipe ideas, plan your celebrations, and reduce stress so you can focus on the joy.
Personalized Support for the Holidays and Beyond
General tips are a great start, but your dietitian can help you build a realistic plan around your own needs, goals, and traditions. Nutrition counseling is often covered by insurance, with little or no out-of-pocket cost. Our team will check that for you!