Meal swaps to make this Christmas
This is what to make if you're creating a full (or even half!) plant-based feast this Christmas, according to this nutritionist.
When it comes to the holiday season, it’s all about making healthy swaps – nourishing and delicious versions of your favourite dishes and treats.
I am a nutritionist and unapologetic about my love for veggies. Most of the healthy dishes I make are vegetable based, and I’ve become obsessed with making vegetables tasty and decadent.
The holidays are a perfect time to impress your family and friends with a wholesome take on your favourite comfort foods, which is why, this season, my menu will be brimming with delectable vegan options.
Light, healthy and friendly for all the plant-based guests you'll have at your table (if you're anything like me, there'll be more this year than ever) this is the line-up I'll be saving up for a happy, festive, and yes, healthy day. Easy, delicious and will leave you wanting seconds... and probably thirds, too.
When guests arrive, I love serving my Healthy chips and dips and Crispy Brussels sprouts with Cumin-Tahini dipping sauce. These appetisers are easy to prepare and taste divine – not to mention, they are loaded full of nutrients and good-for-you healthy fats.
Then, for a fresher take on a traditional Christmas main, enjoy my whole roasted Cauliflower with Green Tahini and almonds. Packed with flavour, cauliflower also contains natural detoxing properties, which is helpful this time of year... and a great way to up your protein intake (did you know 6/7 Australians don't get enough?), with the green tahini drizzled on top.
Other great options for vegan-friendly sides include my Roasted Cauliflower Salad (add pistachios and dried cranberries for a pop of Christmas colour!) and my favourite scrumptious dish, Stuffed Mushrooms with Quinoa, Herbs & Almonds. Filling, delicious and perfect for Boxing Day leftovers.
Of course, what Christmas lunch would be complete without dessert? I love serving a big JSHealth dessert board with slices of my four-ingredient brownies, Vegan raw rocky road, Raw Christmas Bark and fresh fruit. If you’re a lover of stone fruit like me, this Summer Fruit Crumble tastes amazing with coconut ice-cream or yoghurt!
Most importantly though, stay calm, centred and give yourself permission to indulge this Christmas. Everything is fine in balance - and the most important part of any celebration is the people we share it with.