When the weather outside is frightful, and you’re enjoying the company of your family and friends, it sure is delightful isn’t it?
Nothing brings people together on a cold winter's weekend quicker than the promise of a plate of delicious comfort food to warm their bellies.
But sometimes those comfort food recipes are packed with copious amounts of butter and fatty foods - there are healthy options! We're not here saying you should have to eat all raw, green foods, but don't forget that "healthier" doesn't have to be an elimination of foods, but rather, a substitution of your favorite foods with healthier ingredients.
For example, there are some dishes out there that could fool even the most stubborn members of the family into thinking they’re eating the real deal when in fact you’ve switched it up with healthy options!
Don’t believe us? Check out the recipes below.
But first, a note about sourcing your foods…
Why You Should Opt For Grass-Fed Beef
A common misconception for those who eat meat is that all meat is created equally...after all, all cows eat grass, right?
Yes… and no.
It’s important to note that, while all cows start their lives outside eating grass, when they are old enough to prepare for slaughter, they’re brought inside barns where they are fattened up with grains.
This unfortunate fact is why you should opt for grass-fed beef, which is not only significantly higher in nutrients such as vitamin K, and healthy fats such as omega 3 and conjugated linoleic acid, but also because the cows are treated much better than those raised in factory farms.
Why You Should Choose Organic Produce
Did you know that GMO, non-organic foods are the number one reason for the declining health in both adults and children? This includes the increase in obesity, cancer, diabetes, and other infections and diseases.
What does “organic” really mean?
Simply put, it’s the method in which produce is grown and processed. In the U.S., this means that products that grown without using pesticides, GMOs (bioengineered genes), petroleum-based fertilizers, and sewage sludge-based fertilizers.
While buying organic may be more costly, when it comes to your health, prevention is better than finding a cure.
If your local grocery store only carries limited amounts or varieties of organic produce, it’s important to note the “dirty dozen” which, according to the Environmental Working Group, are fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide levels and should be bought organic whenever possible.
Let’s get to the recipes!
Winter Meal Ideas That Taste Delicious And Are Healthy For You
The Best Vegetable Bolognese
Created by Sarah, the whole food blogger behind Making Thyme For Health, this recipe is “The Best Vegetable Bolognese -a plant-based take on classic bolognese that’s bursting with umami flavor. Perfect for special occasions and holidays!”
Vegan Corn Chowder
Self-processed “veggie-obsessed” blogger Julia from The Roasted Root created this “Hearty and healthy veggie-packed vegan corn chowder. Blended up corn, potato, and coconut milk make the chowder base for this super delicious meal!”
Butternut Squash and Spinach Lasagna
Julia over at Julia’s Album creates quick and healthy meals. “This Butternut Squash and Spinach Three Cheese Lasagna recipe is healthy, vegetarian, perfect for the Fall and Winter season, and popular with kids!”
Easy Paleo Grass Fed Meat Balls
“These easy paleo grass-fed meatballs are like a warm hug after a long day,” says Grass Fed Girl, Caitlin, who created this perfect recipe as a super cozy winter meal!
Paleo Beef Stew
Try this whole new twist on beef stew by paleo food blogger, Caroline, “comfort food you can feel good about eating!”
Gluten Free Chicken And Dumplings
“Gluten-Free Chicken and Dumplings; it’s wonderful comfort food and makes an easy weeknight supper!” How scrumptious does this one sound? Check out the recipe by gluten-free blogger Sheena over at Noshtastic.
How amazing do all of these healthy recipes sound? What’s another favorite of yours to indulge in?? Comment below and share with us!