Winter’s dark and cold conditions don’t really seem like a time where there would be bountiful fruits and vegetables, but surprisingly, some of the most nourishing and nutritious fruits and vegetables tend to grow in winter. Winter is the best time to have comfort food that won’t be a guilty pleasure, and with these recipes, you’ll have the chance to warm yourself with some delicious, healthy treats. It’s a win-winter!
Pasta with Black Kale, Caramelized Onions, and Parsnips
Who hasn’t heard of kale at this point? Kale is a world-famous superfood, able to provide a high dose of fiber with no fat and low calories. It’s also chock-full of nutrients and antioxidants like iron, vitamin k, carotenoids, flavonoids, calcium, and the superstar of the health-food world, omega-3 fatty acids. In this recipe, kale is paired with parsnips and pasta, to provide some high fiber and filling carbs.
Roasted Brussel Sprouts with Ham and Garlic
Winter is peak time for Brussel sprouts, which are quickly making a come back as the newest health food craze. Brussel sprouts are full of vitamin c, vitamin k, folate, fiber, potassium, and so much more, and this recipe cooks them through an oven roast, one of the healthiest ways to cook a dinner. This recipe elevates the flavor with some lemon juice, ham, and garlic.
Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Anchovy
Roasting vegetables is a great way to add flavor and crunch to an otherwise unremarkable dish. But don’t overlook this recipe just because it’s simple, this recipe combines broccoli, a great source of fiber and vitamins, with anchovies, which are an excellent source of protein and essential fatty acids. And in small doses, then can pack a strong punch in terms of flavor.
What’s more homey and cozy than a nice creamy soup? This recipe kicks up the flavor on the winter staple, butternut squash soup. Butternut squash is full of fiber, antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and low in calories. This recipe blends butternut squash into a creamy puree, then adds a little smokiness using flavorful chipotle peppers.
Not all salads have to be “summery;” this unique take on a salad gathers some of the most nutritious winter vegetables and nuts like potatoes, carrots, parsnips, celery root, beets, and walnuts into a hearty dish with a lean vinaigrette. Ever heard of a celery root? It’s a close relative of celery, and it’s a low calorie vegetable that’s also a great source of fiber and vitamin C.
Want to update more than your diet? Contact Total Body now, for a chance to boost your weight loss journey with nutritional programs, medical weight loss consultations, and personal training.
