The holiday season is upon us, and between the family gatherings, festive dinners, and all those delicious holiday treats, it’s easy to feel like you’re either overindulging or missing out. But who says you can’t enjoy the best of both worlds?
From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, it can start to feel like the only options available are rich, calorie-laden foods that weigh us down and lead to “food commas” and tighter clothes the next day. But the holidays don’t have to be a total abandonment of a healthy diet. You can still savour seasonal flavours while making mindful choices that support your health and wellness goals.
These ten healthy holiday dishes are so tasty that your loved ones won’t know they’re a step above when it comes to quality ingredients and nutrition. Try some of these out and taste the difference. You’ll love the way they taste—and the way they make you feel—after the dishes have been cleared and it’s it time to start planning your next gathering.
1. Roasted cauliflower mash
If mashed potatoes are a must-have on your holiday table but you’re looking to cut back on carbs or simply try something a little lighter so you can sample more items without filling up prematurely, roasted cauliflower is the perfect substitute. Simply toss cauliflower florets in olive oil and your favourite seasonings, roast at 425°F for 25 minutes until golden, then blend with a little cream (or try using sour cream for a tangy twist) until smooth. It’s a lightened-up version of mashed potatoes that’s just as creamy and comforting. Here’s one to try.
2. Hearty squash salad
This festive salad is a great way to add some seasonal veggies to your spread without the usual heavy dressings or sugary toppings. Roasted squash pairs beautifully with pomegranate seeds for a pop of sweetness, while a light vinaigrette adds just the right tang. With squash varieties like acorn, butternut, and even kabocha all readily available in Ontario markets, this dish is perfect for a Canadian holiday feast. Plus, it's as beautiful as it is healthy! Try this recipe.
3. Crispy Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a must-have side for any holiday meal. They’re incredibly versatile—especially if you’ve got an air fryer handy (a kitchen favourite these days!). If not, roast them in the oven until crispy, then flavour them with whatever you like—try bacon and caramelized onions for a savoury take, or go sweet and spicy with honey and sriracha. Either way, they’ll disappear off the table faster than you can say, "Boxing Day leftovers." Here’s a winning recipe to try.
4. Broccoli and cheese casserole
Looking for something cheesy that’s a little lighter on carbs? This broccoli and cheese casserole delivers. Packed with fibre and vitamin-rich broccoli, it’s a much lighter option than the traditional casserole with heavy bread or potatoes. You can even use Canadian cheddar for an extra touch of flavour that will have your guests coming back for seconds. It’s a perfect veggie-packed side that still feels indulgent! Give this highly rated recipe a whirl!
5. Hasselback sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are an obvious choice for any holiday table, and they’re especially popular in Ontario’s colder months. They’re rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin A, which supports immune health and vision. Hasselback sweet potatoes are a showstopper and surprisingly easy to make. Simply slice them thinly, drizzle with olive oil, and roast them until crispy. Top with garlic, rosemary, or a drizzle of pure maple syrup for a festive flair. Here’s a simple recipe that only looks like it took you hours.
6. Butternut squash lasagna
Who says you need pasta for lasagna? By replacing noodles with layers of vitamin-packed butternut squash, this dish becomes a lighter, vegetable-rich alternative. Add in a bit of sage for that wintery, comforting taste and layers of ricotta for a creamy texture. It’s a great way to introduce seasonal produce and get all the comforting, cheesy flavours without the heaviness of traditional lasagna. Here’s a gorgeous recipe to try.
7. Lightened up sweet potato casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a holiday classic, but it often gets loaded with excess butter and sugar. This version cuts back on the added sugar and dairy but keeps all the natural sweetness and creamy texture of the sweet potatoes. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavours of the season without the sugar overload. You can even use maple syrup for a local twist. Try this stunner with a pecan oat streusel topping.
8. Pan-roasted squash rings
If you’re looking for a simple but festive side dish, look no further than pan-roasted squash rings. A combination of local squashes like acorn, butternut, and delicata, drizzled with olive oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper, roasted until caramelized—this dish is as easy as it gets. Top with crispy sage or crushed pecans for added texture. It's the perfect comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy. Try this recipe that requires just 10 minutes of hands-on time.
9. Green bean casserole
A healthier take on the classic green bean casserole swaps out the heavy cream and canned beans for fresh green beans and a homemade mushroom sauce. It's lighter and fresher, but just as comforting as the original. And if you’re looking for Ontario farm-fresh ingredients to elevate the dish, try using wild mushrooms or locally grown garlic. This version keeps the comforting qualities of the dish without the processed ingredients. Try this lightened-up take on the classic.
10. Roasted pears with brie and honey
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without dessert, but you don’t need to go overboard with sugary pies and cakes. These roasted pears with brie and honey are a perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth without all the carbs. Simply halve ripe pears, top with slices of creamy brie, drizzle with honey, sprinkle some nuts on for crunch and roast until golden. The result is a beautifully simple, sweet yet savoury dessert that’s perfect for any holiday occasion. Here’s a showstopping recipe to try.
* Disclaimer: The photos featured in this article are for inspiration and example purposes only. The actual dishes may look different depending on how you prepare them.
About the Author
Alicia is a journalist and editor in digital and print media specializing in health, nutrition, fitness, and wellness. She was previously the Editorial Director of Clean Eating and Vegetarian Times. Her work has also appeared in Hone Health The Edge, Yoga Journal, Women’s Running, and Oxygen, among others. In addition to being a content creator, she's an ISSA-certified nutritionist, certified personal trainer, and fitness studio owner in Toronto. Alicia loves spreading the word about helpful, science-backed health information, and she can be contacted via her website at aliciamtyler.com.
