Holiday gatherings are in full swing! It’s that time of year when we come together with loved ones to enjoy quality time together, celebrate the season, and best of all, devour delicious food. From creamy mashed potatoes and baked macaroni and cheese to sweet pies, cakes, and cookies, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in calorie-filled dishes. And while there’s nothing wrong with savoring your favorite holiday foods, it’s also true that we could all benefit from the addition of a few healthier options. 

This year, try lightening up your festive meals by adding some more nutritious items to the menu. Everyone at your table will appreciate having side dishes like the following ones that include greens, fruits, and vegetables for freshness and balance. And none of these recipes skimp on flavor, so they’re sure to be just as appreciated as your traditional holiday choices. 

Braised Mustard Greens with Bacon

Tender greens with crunchy bacon come together to form a perfectly flavorful combination.

Crunchy Chickpea & Sweet Potato Kale Salad

Add some plant-based protein to your holiday spread with crispy, seasoned chickpeas served with warm kale, roasted sweet potatoes, and a homemade dressing.

Mini Collard Quiche

Cheesy mini quiches are an ideal handheld bite to serve on the side or even as an appetizer!

Winter Farro Salad

As complex carbohydrates, farro and sweet potatoes will provide you and your guests with lasting energy throughout the festivities.

Sautéed Collard Greens with Pomegranate Seeds

Bright red pomegranate seeds make a beautiful (and delicious!) addition to savory collard greens.

Just Beet It Kale Salad

A kale salad with a simple dressing becomes extra-special thanks to nutty quinoa and earthy beets.

Collard Mac & Cheese

Having macaroni and cheese on your holiday table is a no-brainer, but this recipe includes fresh collards to boost your nutrient intake.

Sweet Potato & Kale Casserole

Swap out your traditional sweet potato casserole for this dairy-free version that adds kale into the mix.

Dairy Free Creamed Kale

With no heavy cream in sight, this dairy free creamed kale recipe is a diet-safe choice for all.

Fresh Cranberry Sauce with Maple Collard Crisps

This cranberry sauce is sweetened naturally with maple syrup and adds collard crisps for a festive and healthy garnish.

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Fill mushroom caps with a well-seasoned veggie mixture, and you’ll end up with a perfectly poppable bite to eat.

Ginger, Carrot, Raisin & Collard Salad

This tasty fruit and veggie salad incorporates the classic holiday flavors of ginger and cinnamon.

White Bean Kale Cauliflower Casserole

If you’re looking for a new casserole to add to the usual rotation, this one is filled with veggies for a healthy option.

Basil Balsamic Kale and Cannellini Salad

Fresh basil and bold balsamic vinegar will ensure this salad is a hit amongst your friends and family members.

Roasted Kalettes and Beets

This simple, five-ingredient recipe packs a flavorful punch with a sprinkle of crumbled blue cheese.

As you prepare to host loved ones this holiday season, we hope this list will become a helpful tool. Use it to find new inspiration and bring fresh options to the table. These lighter, healthier recipes will be an excellent complement to the hearty entrées and classic holiday staples you plan to serve. Enjoy this beautiful season and the abundance of love, light, and fantastic food that comes with it!