5 Healthy Holiday Swaps That Still Hit the Spot

The holidays are all about family, fun and festive flavors we look forward to all year. But who says comfort food can’t be good for you, too? These healthy swaps bring all the festive flavor while keeping your goals shining bright, all season long. 

1. Eggnog → Protein Eggnog 
2. Mashed Potatoes → Cauliflower Mashed “Potatoes” 
3. Creamy Dips → Greek Yogurt Dips 
4. Traditional Stuffing → Quinoa and Veggie Stuffing 
5. Traditional Gravy → Mushroom Gravy 

KEEP READING FOR THE HEALTHY RECIPES 

Enjoy the flavors of the season with healthy holiday recipes that don’t sacrifice comfort or celebration.  

This guide offers simple, delicious swaps such as protein-packed eggnog, cauliflower mashed “potatoes,” Greek yogurt dips, quinoa veggie stuffing and savory mushroom gravy, so you can savor your favorite festive dishes while supporting your wellness goals.  

Each recipe keeps the cozy, nostalgic taste you love, just with more nutrients and less heaviness. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners and anyone looking to stay energized and feeling good all season long. 

1. Eggnog → Protein Eggnog 

Traditional eggnog is loaded with sugar and heavy cream. This lighter version packs the same creamy taste with a protein boost! 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or your favorite milk) 
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 
• 1 egg yolk (optional for richness) 
• ½ tsp vanilla extract 
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg 
• ¼ tsp cinnamon 
• 1 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional) 
  
  

Directions: 

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a blender until smooth and frothy. 
2. Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat until warm (do not boil). 
3. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon or nutmeg to serve. 
   
   

Festive tip: Add a dollop of light whipped cream or a cinnamon stick for an extra cozy touch. 

2. Mashed Potatoes → Cauliflower Mashed “Potatoes” 

These “fauxtatoes” have the same creamy texture and comfort you love about potatoes, with fewer carbs and more nutrients. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets 
• 2 tbsp Greek yogurt  
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 clove garlic, minced 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
  
  

Directions: 

1. Steam cauliflower until very tender (about 10–12 minutes). 
2. Drain well and transfer to a blender or food processor. 
3. Add Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic, salt and pepper. 
4. Blend until smooth and creamy. 
   
   

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of chopped chives for extra flavor. 

3. Creamy Dips → Greek Yogurt Dips 

Skip the sour cream. Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess without the extra fat. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt 
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 tbsp lemon juice 
• 1 tsp garlic powder 
• 1 tbsp chopped dill or parsley 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
  
  

Directions: 

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. 
2. Chill for 30 minutes before serving. 
   
   

Festive addition: Add roasted red peppers or caramelized onions for a holiday twist. 

4. Traditional Stuffing → Quinoa and Veggie Stuffing 

This filling recipe has all the cozy comfort of stuffing, but is lighter, fiber-packed and gluten-free. 

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup uncooked quinoa 
• 2 cups vegetable broth 
• 1 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 onion, chopped 
• 2 celery stalks, chopped 
• 1 carrot, diced 
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped 
• 1 tsp dried thyme 
• ½ tsp sage 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
  
  

Directions: 

1. Rinse quinoa, then cook in vegetable broth according to package directions. 
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, celery, carrot and mushrooms until tender. 
3. Stir in thyme, sage, salt and pepper. 
4. Combine cooked quinoa and veggies; mix well. 
   
   

Optional: Add a handful of dried cranberries or chopped walnuts for extra holiday flair. 

5. Traditional Gravy → Mushroom Gravy 

This swap is rich, savory, and totally satisfying, just like your favorite traditional gravy. No meat drippings needed! 

Ingredients: 

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter 
• 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped 
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 tbsp flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) 
• 1 ½ cups low-sodium vegetable broth 
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
  
  

Directions: 

1. In a skillet, heat oil and sauté mushrooms until browned. 
2. Add garlic and cook for one more minute. 
3. Sprinkle in flour, stirring until absorbed. 
4. Gradually whisk in broth and soy sauce and simmer until thickened. 
5. Season to taste and serve warm. 
   
   

Pro tip: Blend for a smoother texture.