Christmas Recipes & Tips | Healthy Family Project

Raspberry Walnut Salad

Jodi Danen, RD — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 22:51:35 +0000

This light, simple, and refreshing salad combines tender salad greens, fresh raspberries, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy walnuts, topped off with a simple homemade raspberry vinaigrette.

Fruit on salads – yay or nay? I say yay! Technically, tomatoes are a fruit and you see them on salads all the time. Fruit offers a juicy sweetness that can really take a salad to the next level.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Salad Greens – Go with a tender green like spinach, baby kale or spring mix for this salad.
Raspberries – So delicious in this salad! You can also swap or add in other berries, fresh cherries, apples or pears.
Goat Cheese – Plain or honey goat cheese pairs so nicely. Not a goat cheese fan? Fresh mozzarella, shredded Parmesan or Feta work well too.
Walnuts – Great for crunch and heart-healthy fats. Other nuts like pistachios, sliced almonds or pecan are great too.
Vinaigrette – A simple mix of olive oil, red wine vinegar and raspberry jam.

Raspberries are high in fiber and Vitamin C, making them a great addition to any meal. Look for raspberries that are firm with a deep color, and store them unwashed in the fridge. Simply rinse with cool water and pay dry with a paper towel when ready to add to your salad.

Raspberries are also good for gut health and are considered a brain-boosting food thanks to all vitamin C you will find in these beautiful red berries.

Commonly Asked Questions for our Raspberry Walnut Salad Recipe

Q: What are the main ingredients in this Raspberry Walnut Salad?
A: The main ingredients are salad greens (like baby kale or spinach), fresh raspberries, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and raspberry jam for the dressing.

Q: How is the raspberry vinaigrette made for this salad?
A: The vinaigrette is made by whisking together olive oil, red wine vinegar, and raspberry jam. Season with salt and pepper.

Q: What type of salad greens work best in this recipe?
A: Tender greens like baby kale, spinach or a spring mix blend are recommended.

Related: If you love raspberries, try our Raspberry Baked Chicken or our Raspberry & Basil English Muffin!

Q: Can you substitute a different nut besides walnuts?
A: Yes, the recipe notes that other nuts like pistachios, sliced almonds or pecans could be used instead of walnuts.

Q: Can you use a different cheese instead of goat cheese?
A: The recipe suggests fresh mozzarella, shredded parmesan or feta as alternatives to the goat cheese.

Q: What are the health benefits of eating Raspberries?
A: Raspberries provide an excellent nutritional boost to this salad. They are high in fiber to aid digestion and an exceptional source of vitamin C to support immune health. Raspberries also contain beneficial compounds like antioxidants and are considered a brain-boosting food. Their sweet-tart flavor pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and creamy cheese.

Let’s make this Raspberry Walnut Salad!

Raspberry Walnut Salad

This light, simple and refreshing salad combines tender salad greens, fresh raspberries, tangy goat cheese and crunchy walnuts, topped off with a simple homemade raspberry vinaigrette.

Course Appetizers, Salads

Keyword healthy salads, raspberries, salad, walnut

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings servings

Calories 142kcal

Author Jodi Danen

Equipment

Salad Dressing Shaker

Ingredients

2½ Tbsp. olive oil
1 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
1 Tbsp. raspberry jam
1 5 oz. package organicgirlⓇ baby kale
¾ cup raspberries
⅓ cup chopped walnuts
2 oz. crumbled goat cheese

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Whisk oil, vinegar and jam in small bowl or mason jar. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
Combine salad greens, raspberries, walnuts and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat.

Nutrition

Looking for another unique and delicious way to enjoy raspberries? We love them as a topping on English muffins with a bit of basil and cream cheese. Trust me, you gotta try it!

Have you ever added raspberries to your salad?

The post Raspberry Walnut Salad appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Healthy Spinach Dip

Jodi Danen, RD — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 01:13:35 +0000

Looking for a healthy snack or appetizer? Discover how to prepare this healthy spinach dip. It is ready in just 15 minutes and has all the flavors you love in a dip, plus reducing fat and calories!

Spinach dip is one of those great appetizers that can be served year-round – hot or cold. It’s always a must for the Super Bowl or any game day celebration and makes appearances at just about any birthday party, holiday celebration or cookout.

Traditional spinach dip is usually loaded with cream cheese or sour cream. And extra calories and fat. We discovered that you can still make a delicious version of spinach dip without the extra calories! This lightened-up version is made with Greek yogurt for a healthier, but still creamy and delicious, version.

Spinach Dip Ingredients

Here is what you need:

Spinach: No brainer here! We opted for fresh spinach over frozen since there’s no need the thaw or drain out all that extra water.
Onions & Carrots: We like a few extra veggies in our dip for some added crunch. Finely chop them to add.
Plain Greek Yogurt: We used nonfat, but any plain Greek yogurt works.
Mayonnaise: To cut the tartness of Greek yogurt, we also used a little reduced-fat mayonnaise to keep things creamy.
Parmesan cheese: When it comes to Parmesan, always go fresh over the stuff in the green can. You’ll get so much more flavor.
Salt, garlic, and oil: For sauteing and seasoning.

This dip is really easy to throw together too. Saute the onions and carrots, then add the garlic and spinach. Mix the yogurt, mayonnaise, cheese and salt, then add to skillet. Let everything heat together and those flavors combine.

If you’re like me, you’re ready to dip in at this point (let it cool first!) so grab your pita chips, crusty bread or fresh veggies. You can serve this spinach dip hot or cold.

Facts About Healthy Spinach Dip

Enjoy all the goodness of spinach (packed with vitamins A, C, K, and iron) and carrots (a fantastic source of beta-carotene and fiber) while indulging in a delicious appetizer. Serve it up with pita chips, crusty bread, or your favorite fresh veggies for a guilt-free snack or party dish.

By including spinach and carrots in this dip, you get a boost of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that provide various health benefits related to vision, cancer prevention, heart health, and more. The veggies help make the dip more nutritious. We highly recommend making it not just for the health benefits but because it’s delicious!

Looking for other appetizers or dips for your celebration? Here are a few of our favorites:

Lightened-Up Spinach Dip

This lightened-up version of spinach dip is made with Greek yogurt for a healthier, but still creamy and delicious, snack.

Course Appetizers

Keyword appetizers, healthy, recipes, spinach dip, tailgating

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 82kcal

Author Jodi Danen

Equipment

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small sweet onion diced
¼ cup grated carrots
2 cloves garlic minced
1 lb. fresh spinach chopped
½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
¼ cup reduced-fat mayonnaise
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp. salt

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Add onions and carrots and cook 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Stir in garlic and spinach and cook 2-3 minutes or until spinach wilts.
Combine yogurt, mayonnaise, cheese and salt in medium bowl.
Add yogurt mixture to pan and stir to combine. Heat 2-3 minutes, or until warmed.
Serve hot or cold with pita chips, crusty bread or veggies for dipping.

Nutrition

The post Healthy Spinach Dip appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

Jodi Danen, RD — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 20:11:43 +0000

If you’re searching for a new dish to serve this Spring, Easter, or Sunday supper, look no further. These asparagus puff pastry bundles are easy to make and go fantastic alongside a fresh salad or any main dish.

With the busy season right around the corner, we are trying to whip up some new and easy recipes. I went to an appetizer party last week where we all had to bring a dish. I wanted something elegant but also easy to prepare and easy to cook. I prepped these little Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles at home then baked them when I got to the party. Everyone raved that they were delicious and different!

Kids can help prepare this recipe if you want them to get involved in the kitchen. Puff pastry is easy to work with, so they can roll out and cut it. They can add on the goat cheese and the prepared asparagus and roll them up.

Key Ingredients for these Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

Puff Pastry– generally found in the frozen aisle at the grocery store puff pastry can be used in desserts and appetizers like this recipe!
Asparagus– we used a whole pound of asparagus for these bundles and just cut off the ends. See below for some wonderful facts on asparagus.
Goat Cheese– if you have never had goat cheese it is very creamy and has a very distinct flavor. It is rich and perfect for a savory dish like this one!

What we love about asparagus

Asparagus is loaded with wonderful benefits for our bodies. They are rich in anti-oxidants and are high in fiber. Asparagus is also high in iron, copper, folate, calcium, and even protein. Asparagus is also low in fat and calories which can help aid in losing weight, too!

How to Prepare Asparagus:

Always rinse the asparagus under cold water and snap off the pale woody ends of the asparagus and discard.
If the asparagus is stringy, you can peel away the rough skin from the bottom half of the spears with a vegetable peeler.

For tips on selecting, storing, and prep asparagus, check out our Produce Tips page.

How to make these Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

First make sure to thaw out the puff pastry ahead of time. Place in the fridge overnight or sit out on the counter about 30-45 minutes before you’re ready to use it.

When ready to cook preheat the oven to 350°F.

Then lightly dust a clean surface with some flour. Unroll the puff pastry.

Next use a rolling pin to thin out the pastry until it’s about half as thick. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut into 6 rectangles.

Divide the goat cheese equally in a diagonal on the puff pastry rectangles. Top the cheese with five asparagus spears. Season with salt and pepper (or any other seasonings of choice).

Wrap the ends of puff pastry over top and then brush with the milk.

Then place them in the oven and bake for about 14-16 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!

Healthy Benefits of Eating Asparagus

Some key benefits of eating asparagus include:

Rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants that may reduce chronic disease risk
High in fiber which promotes healthy digestion
May help regulate blood sugar levels due to fiber and antioxidants
Excellent source of folate, important for cell growth and preventing neural tube defects in pregnancy
Provides vitamin K for blood clotting and bone health
May boost brain health and provide anti-aging benefits from antioxidants

Incorporating asparagus into your diet through recipes like these bundles can be a tasty way to boost your vegetable intake and reap the nutritional perks.

Check these easy and nutritious recipes to try:

Lemon Dill Salmon Pasta with Asparagus

Tomato, Feta & Pesto Puff Pastry Bites

Make sure to PIN IT!

Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles

Turn asparagus into an elegant appetizer or side dish using puff pastry and goat cheese to make these little bundles. Perfect for any holiday celebration!

Course Appetizer, Sides

Keyword appetizer, asparagus, easter, side dish, spring

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings servings

Calories 267kcal

Author Jodi Danen

Equipment

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry thawed
2 oz. goat cheese crumbled
30 asparagus spears about 1 lb., ends trimmed
1 Tbsp. milk

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

First, make sure to thaw out the puff pastry ahead of time. Place in the fridge overnight or sit on the counter for 30-45 minutes before you use it.
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Unroll puff pastry. Use a rolling pin to thin out until it’s about half as thick. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut into 6 rectangles.
Divide goat cheese equally in a diagonal on puff pastry rectangles. Top cheese with 5 asparagus spears. Season with salt and pepper.
Wrap ends of puff pastry over top. Brush with milk.
Bake 14-16 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot.

Nutrition

The post Asparagus Puff Pastry Bundles appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Festive & Family-Friendly Holiday Mocktails

Andrea Wiggins — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 18:19:23 +0000

Four mocktails that combine seasonal flavors, vibrant colors, and just the right sparkle to make your holiday celebrations shine. No need for anyone to miss out on the fun! Let’s get sipping!

The holidays are here, and you’ve got the decorations up, the playlist ready to set the mood, and a spread of delicious food that’s worthy of any celebration. But what about the drinks? We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for something festive, flavorful, and inclusive for everyone at your table. These mocktails are easy to make, stunning to serve, and perfect for holiday gatherings—from cozy family nights to a big New Year’s Eve toast.

Best Holiday Mocktails Everyone Will Love

The holidays are here, and you’ve got the lights up, your favorite holiday playlist on repeat, and snacks that could win an award. But the drinks? If you’re still offering water, soda, or juice boxes, it’s time to level up.

Whether you’re hosting a family movie night, throwing a holiday bash, or just looking for something a little extra, these festive mocktails will add serious cheer to your celebrations—no stress—just fun, flavorful sips that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Let’s talk about drinks!

Instant Pot Apple Cider

You know that warm, spiced apple-y smell that instantly makes your house feel festive? This is that in a mug. It’s cozy, naturally sweet, and makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a blanket—without any effort thanks to the Instant Pot.

Perfect for: Fireside chats, snow day snuggles, or a family movie marathon.

What You Need:

8 apples, quartered
4 cups water
2 cinnamon sticks
Whipped cream & a sprinkle of cinnamon

How to Make It:

Toss the apples, water, and cinnamon sticks in the Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 15 minutes.
Let it sit for another 15 minutes, then quick-release the pressure.
Strain the apples through a sieve, mash gently, and serve warm. Top with whipped cream and cinnamon for bonus points.

It’s sweet, it’s cozy, and your house will smell like a holiday wonderland. Plus, everyone—kids, adults, grandma—loves it

Pomegranate Citrus Mocktail

This one looks fancy. It’s fizzy, bright, and packs a punch of flavor, with fresh garnishes that make it feel like a celebration in a glass.

Perfect for: Holiday brunches, dinner parties, or ringing in the New Year with style.

What You Need:

2 oz. pomegranate juice
1 oz. freshly squeezed orange juice
1/2 oz. fresh lime juice
2 oz. sparkling water
Ice, pomegranate arils, lime & orange slices, cranberries, fresh mint, and rosemary

How to Make It:

Fill a glass halfway with ice. Add the pomegranate juice, orange juice, and lime juice. Stir it up.
Top it off with sparkling water for that celebratory fizz.
Go wild with the garnish—pomegranate arils, citrus slices, and a sprig of mint or rosemary.

It’s gorgeous, refreshing, and feels special. You’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate with Raspberry Mint Drizzle

This isn’t just hot chocolate; this is next-level hot chocolate. It’s creamy, decadent, and topped with a raspberry-mint drizzle that makes it taste (and look) like a treat from your favorite café. Best part? The slow cooker does the work.

Perfect for: Holiday parties, lazy Sunday mornings, or treating yourself after a day of shopping.

What You Need:

14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
4-8 cups water (depending on how rich you like it)
1/2 cup fresh raspberries, mashed
3 Tbsp. water for the drizzle
5-10 fresh mint leaves

How to Make It:

Add the condensed milk, chocolate chips, and 4 cups of hot water to your slow cooker. Whisk it every 15 minutes for about 55 minutes. Adjust with more water if it’s too rich.
While that’s simmering, heat the raspberries, mint, and water on the stove until it turns into a sauce. Strain out the seeds and set aside.
Serve the hot chocolate in mugs, drizzle the raspberry-mint sauce on top, and drop in a few fresh raspberries.

It’s rich, it’s cozy, and it looks super fancy with minimal effort. Plus, who doesn’t love hot chocolate.

Ginger Lemon Mocktail

Light, fizzy, and full of zesty flavor, this one is perfect when you want something not too sweet but still festive. The ginger gives it a little kick, and the lemon keeps it bright and refreshing.

Perfect for: Dinner parties, New Year’s Eve toasts, or as a light sip between courses.

What You Need:

2 oz. Ginger Lemon Kombucha
1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz. sparkling water
Splash of simple syrup (optional)
Lemon slices for garnish

How to Make It:

Combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, and kombucha in a glass.
Top with sparkling water for that perfect fizz.
Garnish with a fresh lemon slice to keep things fancy.

It’s light, refreshing, and has a little zing from the ginger—great for balancing out all the rich holiday food.

These Mocktails Are Holiday MVPs

Here’s the deal: the holidays are for everyone. These mocktails aren’t just pretty—they’re family-friendly, easy to make, and flavorful.

Need something cozy? Apple Cider and Hot Chocolate have you covered.
Want to add a little sparkle? Pomegranate Citrus and Ginger Lemon are here for you.

These holiday mocktails are perfect to accompany delicious crostini recipes or savory boards. So grab your favorite glass, add some festive garnishes, and raise a toast to a holiday season full of flavor, fun, and all the little moments that matter.
Cheers to you!

The post Festive & Family-Friendly Holiday Mocktails appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Cozy Cheese Fondue Night This New Year’s Eve

Andrea Wiggins — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 17:03:07 +0000

This year, let’s make it fun, festive, and downright delicious with a cozy cheese fondue party that brings everyone together around the table.

New Year’s Eve can be a lot. Restaurants are packed to the brim, menus are overpriced, and you’re lucky if you don’t spend half the night waiting for a table. If you’re anything like me, you might be thinking… maybe staying in is the way to go this year.

And here’s the good news: staying in doesn’t have to feel boring or last-minute.

It’s totally easy—because we’re using a pre-made queso to keep things stress-free. So grab your favorite people, your favorite snacks, and let’s make this New Year’s Eve one to remember (without even leaving the house).

Cheese Fondue Night is Perfect for NYE

There’s something about fondue that feels special, like a little celebration all on its own. It’s interactive, it’s warm and cozy, and it keeps everyone hanging out together while dipping their favorite foods into melty, cheesy goodness.

But here’s the real win: it’s so simple. By using a traditional premade queso, you skip the fuss of melting cheeses, fiddling with cornstarch, and worrying about lumps. Just heat, pour, and dip away.

Staying in suddenly feels like the best idea of the year.

The Easiest Cheese Fondue (With a Premade Shortcut!)

Instead of starting from scratch, we’re keeping it super simple with a traditional queso. You can find great options in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, and they melt beautifully for fondue.

How to Set It Up:

Heat the queso in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warm and creamy.
Transfer it to a fondue pot or small slow cooker to keep it warm and melty. No fancy equipment? No problem—just reheat on the stove as needed.
Boom. Fondue is served!

Cheese fondue is rich and indulgent, so let’s pair it with dippers that feel hearty, balanced, and just plain delicious. Here’s what to serve alongside that melty queso.

Variations

Protein-Packed Favorites:

Chicken sausage (grilled or pan-seared for extra flavor)
Turkey sausage (lean and satisfying)

Roasted Veggies:

Mushrooms (roasted for that earthy bite)
Butternut squash (soft, sweet, and caramelized)
Baby potatoes (crispy or boiled—perfect for cheese dunking)

Fresh & Crisp:

Apple slices (sweet, tangy, and an unexpected hit with queso)
Cherry tomatoes (bursting with flavor)
Broccoli florets (roasted or steamed for a perfect balance)

A Fun Twist:

Grapes (yes, grapes! They’re surprisingly amazing with cheese fondue.)

Set the Scene for Your Cozy Fondue Night

Fondue isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. Here’s how to pull it all together:

Set the Table:
Lay out a big platter with all your dippers arranged nicely (because we’re fancy like that). Add little bowls for extras like grapes or apple slices.
Keep It Warm:
If you don’t have a fondue pot, a small slow cooker or saucepan works perfectly. Just keep the queso warm over low heat.
Make It Festive:
Light a few candles, put on a fun New Year’s Eve playlist, and maybe even add some string lights or sparkly decor for that celebratory vibe.

Add Drinks:
Sparkling cider, champagne, or even a fun mocktail pairs perfectly with this spread.

Fondue Night is the Best of Both Worlds

Look, New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be over-the-top to feel special. A cheese fondue night gives you the best of both worlds:

It’s easy and stress-free (thanks to that premade queso).
It feels festive and fun.
It’s balanced, with protein-packed and veggie-forward dippers that make the whole spread feel hearty without being heavy.

Plus, staying in means you get to celebrate at your own pace. No rushing, no waiting, no stress—just good food, good company, and a cozy night to remember.

Cheers to a Delicious Start to the New Year

So this year, skip the crowds, stay in, and host a cheese fondue night that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or just your closest crew, this cozy, interactive meal brings everyone together in the best way possible.

Grab the queso, gather your favorite dippers, and toast to the year ahead—full, happy, and surrounded by the people who matter most.

Happy New Year—and happy dipping!

The post Cozy Cheese Fondue Night This New Year’s Eve appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Holiday Season Crostini Recipes

Andrea Wiggins — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 21:28:55 +0000

The Holidays are wonderful and wild… Whether you’re hosting, bringing a dish to the party, or need a quick appetizer before the main meal, these crostini recipes are your secret weapon to look put together without losing your sanity.

Let’s be honest: the holidays are magical, but they’re also messy. Between decorating, shopping, work deadlines, and last-minute gift wrapping (hello, 11 p.m. Amazon orders), time feels like a luxury you just don’t have.

Throw hosting or attending a potluck into the mix, and you might be tempted to show up with a sad veggie tray from the grocery store. We’ve all been there. But here’s the thing: Simple doesn’t mean boring. Three ingredients. That’s all it takes!

Crostinis in 10 Minutes (Yes, Really!)

When you’re that busy—juggling errands, prepping gifts, and rushing out the door for yet another holiday event—cooking often feels like just one more thing on the never-ending to-do list. These 3-ingredient crostini are proof that:
-You don’t need 15 ingredients to make something amazing.
-You can be festive without spending hours in the kitchen.
-You deserve a stress-free win during the chaos.

Let’s jump into details and dive into tasty toppings that can accompany these crunchy crostini…

Goat Cheese & Pomegranate Crostini

The perfect mix of creamy, tangy, and bright with a festive pop of red. Holiday chic, done in minutes.

Ingredients:

1 loaf crusty French bread
4 oz. honey goat cheese
1 ½ cups POM Wonderful® Pomegranate Arils

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F.
Slice French bread into ½-inch rounds and arrange on a baking sheet.
Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
Spread goat cheese on each slice.
Top with pomegranate arils and serve immediately.

Mushrooms on Ricotta Crostini

Rich and savory, with a deep flavor that feels fancy but takes zero fuss. Prep ahead, serve in minutes, and watch them disappear.

Ingredients:

4 slices rustic bread, toasted
½ cup fresh ricotta cheese
8 oz oyster mushrooms, sautéed in butter

Directions:

Toast the bread slices until golden and crisp.
Sauté oyster mushrooms in butter over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes until caramelized. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread ricotta cheese on each slice of bread.
Top with sautéed mushrooms and drizzle with a little browned butter, if desired.

Guacamole Sweet Potato Rounds

A gluten-free alternative that’s fresh, colorful, and crowd-pleasing. Healthy, vibrant, and perfect for a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients:

2 medium sweet potatoes (cut into ¼” rounds)
2 avocados, mashed (guacamole style)
⅓ cup pomegranate seeds

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Place sweet potato rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly coat with oil, and sprinkle with salt.
Roast for about 20 minutes until slightly golden and fork-tender.
Top each round with mashed guacamole.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds and serve.

Excited about this recipe?… Watch the prep process in our “Sweetpotato Guacamole Rounds” video!

Because You’re Already Doing Enough

You don’t need complicated recipes this season. You’re already balancing schedules, crossing off endless to-do lists, and making the holidays feel special. These simple, delicious crostini are a little gift to yourself—a “here, take something off your plate” moment of peace.

So toast that bread, sprinkle on the toppings, and pat yourself on the back. You’ve got this! Here’s to keeping it simple, festive, and stress-free this season.

The post Holiday Season Crostini Recipes appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Creative Ways to Use Guacamole for the Holidays

Andrea Wiggins — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 22:52:16 +0000

This year, it’s time to step up your holiday snack game and add a splash of creativity to your spread. Whether hosting a Secret Santa party, heading to a Christmas potluck, or joining the annual office holiday bash, these guacamole-inspired ideas will wow your guests and get everyone talking.

The holiday season is in full swing, bringing with it a whirlwind of parties, family gatherings, and festive potlucks. Yet, let’s be honest—the appetizer table often feels a little… predictable. You’ll find the usual lineup: a bowl of chips and dip, a cheese platter, and maybe a cracker tray for good measure. But what if you could transform a crowd-pleaser like guacamole into something festive, fun, and totally unforgettable?

Ideas to Give Guacamole a Holiday Twist

Here are three ideas for making guacamole the “holiday host” and spreading cheer at your next gathering. They’re easy to prepare, bursting with flavor, and festive enough to transform the appetizer table into the highlight of the evening.

Grinch Guacamole

Everyone loves a good-themed dish, and what’s better than a Grinch-inspired snack to pair with holiday movies or kids’ parties? This fun and vibrant take on guacamole is both adorable and delicious.

Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
Spread the guacamole onto a serving plate in a circle.
Use black olives for the Grinch’s eyes, adding small slices for detail.
Cut a red bell pepper into a curved shape to form his mischievous smile.
Add a little shredded cheese for texture if desired.

Get Full Recipe

It’s interactive and fun and brings a bit of holiday magic to a dip that’s already loved by everyone. Perfect for kids and grown-ups alike!

Holiday Guacamole Wreath

A guacamole wreath is a show-stopping centerpiece for any holiday spread. It looks elegant and seasonal, and it’s incredibly easy to assemble. Ready to make it? Let’s get started!

Ingredients – Guacamole Wreath

Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
Cherry tomatoes (halved)
½ cup fresh cilantro
Pita chips, veggie sticks, or crackers

Instructions

Place a small bowl in the center of a large serving platter to form a mold.
Spread guacamole around the bowl in a thick circular shape, forming the “wreath.”
Carefully remove the small bowl to leave a clean circle in the middle.
Decorate the wreath with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh cilantro sprigs to mimic ornaments and greenery.
Serve with pita chips, veggie sticks, or crackers.

This festive wreath turns guacamole into a stunning centerpiece, giving guests a reason to “ooh” and “ahh” as they grab a chip.

Holiday Tree Mini Pizzas

If you’re looking for an appetizer that feels a little heartier, these guacamole-topped mini pizzas are the answer. They’re bite-sized, festive, and a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Christmas Tree Mini Pizzas

Prepare your favorite guacamole or grab a pre-made option.
1 pound store-bought or homemade pizza dough
⅓ cup red bell pepper (cut into star shapes)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Let pizza dough sit for 2 hours at room temperature.
Sprinkle flour on a clean surface, divide dough into 3 parts, and roll it to ¼-inch thickness.
Use a tree-shaped cookie cutter to cut shapes from the dough.
Place shapes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool.
Spread guacamole onto the cooled tree-shaped pizzas.
Top with red bell pepper stars.

These mini guacamole pizzas are festive and satisfying, making them the perfect addition to a grazing table or kids’ holiday party.

Delicious Guacamole Appetizers

The beauty of guacamole is its versatility. By transforming it into festive creations like a Grinch face, an elegant wreath, or fun Christmas tree pizzas, you solve the age-old holiday appetizer problem: how to make something familiar feel fun, unique, and on-theme.

Each of these guacamole recipes is:
Visually festive and appealing
Simple to make with just a few ingredients
Delicious enough to have guests asking for seconds

So this holiday season, ditch the boring bowl of chips and dip and give your guests something to talk about. Whether it’s a Grinch-inspired platter for family movie night or elegant guacamole wreaths for your next gathering, these recipes prove that guacamole can be so much more than a party sidekick.

Festive, flavorful, and downright fun—guacamole just got a holiday makeover!

For more Holiday recipes and ideas, check the Healthy Family Project Pinterest, if you prepare these delicious appetizers, don’t forget to tag us!

The post Creative Ways to Use Guacamole for the Holidays appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Christmas Tree Mozzarella and Tomato Salad

Andrea Wiggins — Tue, 10 Dec 2024 20:39:10 +0000

Looking for a festive twist on a classic Tomato & Mozzarella Salad? This easy and delicious recipe transforms fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant basil into a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.

Let’s be real—holiday hosting is a lot. Between managing your kids’ excitement, navigating the endless to-do list, and trying not to burn the cookies you swore you’d make from scratch this year, adding one more “fancy” dish to your holiday table feels impossible. But you know what? Sometimes, simple is all you need.

That’s where this Christmas Tree Mozzarella and Tomato Salad comes in. It’s festive, it’s easy, and it’s impressive enough to make your guests say, “Oh wow, did you make that?” (Why yes, yes I did.) The best part? You don’t need a ton of time, ingredients, or energy to pull it off—three things I know we’re all running short on this time of year.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, taking a dish to a potluck, or just need something that looks really cute for your holiday table, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s one of those magical dishes that’s both beautiful and healthy, which balances out all the cookies, hot chocolate, and ahem extra slices of pie we’ve been indulging in lately.

Let’s get started, grab your mozzarella and some tomatoes, and let’s make this holiday magic happen!

Mozzarella and Tomato Salad: What You’ll Need

Here’s the short and sweet shopping list:

8 oz container of mozzarella balls
Tomatoes (cherry tomatoes or larger ones you can slice)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
Sea salt
Fresh basil

That’s it. Six ingredients. You’ve got this!

Why This Salad Recipe Works

I’ll be honest this salad has saved me more than once. I’m a mom of three, which means most holiday prep looks like me running around in 15 different directions while my kids ask me for snacks approximately every three minutes. When you’re juggling all that, you need recipes that are:

Quick: This comes together in about 20 minutes, start to finish.
Kid-Friendly: My kids love helping with the molds and “decorating” the platter.
Stress-Free: No complicated steps, no surprise mishaps. Just festive and fun.
Actually Pretty: You’ll feel like you accomplished something Pinterest-worthy, even if the rest of the house looks like a holiday tornado hit.

Serving Ideas

This salad is a hit on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:

Crusty bread or homemade crostinis
Charcuterie boards (because, cheese and tomatoes—yes, please)
Holiday soups or roasts

It’s also a great dish to bring to a potluck or family gathering. Bonus: It travels well, so you don’t have to worry about it falling apart en route.

For more ideas to side this salad, you can get some inspiration from our Festive Tomato Recipes for this holiday season and enjoy them with family and friends.

Christmas Tree Mozzarella & Tomato Salad

Fresh and Delicious Tomato and Mozzarella Salad. This easy and healthy recipe transforms fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and vibrant basil into a Christmas season piece.

Course 30 Minutes or Less, Appetizers, Salads

Cuisine Italian

Keyword 30 minute meals, salad recipes

Prep Time 20

Total Time 20

Servings

Calories 90kcal

Equipment

1 Christmas Tree Silicon Tray

Ingredients

8 oz container of mozzarella balls
20 piece Cherry Tomatoes cherry tomatoes or larger ones you can slice
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp balsamic glaze
1 Pinch Sea salt
6 leaves Fresh basil

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Prep the Cheese: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grab your cutest Christmas-themed silicone molds (I used little tree shapes), pop them onto a baking sheet, and add a mozzarella ball to each one.
Bake (Briefly!): Stick the molds in the oven for 8-10 minutes, until the mozzarella gets nice and melty. Keep an eye on them—you don’t want them to melt completely, just soften enough to mold into shape.
Cool Down: Once the cheese comes out of the oven, gently blot any excess moisture with a paper towel (because no one likes soggy cheese). Then toss the molds into the fridge for about 10 minutes to let the mozzarella firm up.
Slice the Tomatoes: While the cheese is cooling, slice your tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes are cute and easy, but if you’re using larger tomatoes, just slice them into rounds.
Assemble the Magic: Now the fun part! Arrange your sliced tomatoes on a platter to create the “base” of your salad. Carefully pop the mozzarella out of the molds and place them on top in a festive pattern.
Add the Finishing Touches: Drizzle the whole thing with olive oil and balsamic glaze, sprinkle a little sea salt, and top with fresh basil leaves.

Nutrition

The post Christmas Tree Mozzarella and Tomato Salad appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Brussels Sprouts, Apples, & Pistachio Salad

Jodi Danen, RD — Wed, 14 Aug 2024 21:25:00 +0000

This flavorful and easy Brussels Sprouts salad recipe is ready in 15 minutes. It is sweet and salty, made with shaved Brussels sprouts, fresh apples, pistachios, and feta.

Change up your salad game by using shredded Brussels sprouts as the base instead of greens! This salad is tossed with a simple vinaigrette, apples, pistachios, and feta for a delicious and filling dish.

Brussels sprouts used to have a bad reputation as a sticky vegetable (which they can be when you steam them), but in recent years they’ve surged to greatness thanks to roasted Brussels appearing on menus across the country.

I love roasted Brussels sprouts, but did you know they also offer the perfect crunchy base for your salad? You can often find already-shredded Brussels in the produce department, but if not they’re easy to thinly slice or shred yourself.

This recipe pairs Brussels sprouts with crisp apples, crunchy pistachios and salty feta cheese, all tossed in a simple vinaigrette of olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.

Key Ingredients For Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad

Brussels Sprouts
Apple
Feta
Pistachios
Simple dressing

Simple, yet delicious! Everything about this salad is crunchy, eat bite offers a wide variety of flavors thanks to the apple, pistachios, and that simple homemade salad dressing.

One of the great things about salads, is that the topping possibilities are just about endless! But, I did want to share a few extra ones to get those wheels spinning for added suggestions.

Additional Topping Ideas

Dried cranberries or cherries.
Add in a protein. Grilled chicken would be delicious addition.
Pomegranate seeds.
Chopped bacon.
Sunflower seeds. Or any seeds you prefer.
Leave the feta off for a dairy-free salad.

If you like us, and enjoy recipes with Brussels sprouts, make sure to check out our Sheet Pan Salmon with roasted veggies on a side, or if you feel like twisting it accompany this salad recipe.

Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apples & Pistachios

This shredded Brussels sprouts salad is tossed with a simple vinaigrette, apples, pistachios and feta for a delicious dish.

Course Appetizers, Salads, Sides

Keyword apples, Brussels sprouts, pistachios, salad, side dish

Prep Time 15

Total Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 156kcal

Author Jodi Danen

Equipment

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 pound Brussels sprouts shredded
1 Sage Fruit® apple cored, chopped
1/4 cup Wonderful® shelled pistachios
1/4 cup feta cheese

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Instructions

Add oil, vinegar, salt and pepper to small bowl or glass jar with lid. Mix well and set aside.
Combine Brussels sprouts, apples, pistachios and cheese in large bowl. Add dressing and mix to coat all ingredients.

Nutrition

The post Brussels Sprouts, Apples, & Pistachio Salad appeared first on Healthy Family Project.

Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Amanda Keefer — Mon, 06 May 2024 12:00:00 +0000

Enjoy a new spin on cupcakes with this lightened-up cranberry cupcake recipe! It’s made with canned cranberry sauce and topped with a cranberry cream cheese frosting for a sweet dessert. Perfect for Mother’s Day, holiday celebrations, birthday parties, and more…

I have to admit, I’m not the biggest fan of cupcakes. My sweet tooth tends to lean more dark chocolate than cake and frosting. So, when our friends at US Cranberries reached out about doing a cranberry cupcake, I knew I was going to need some taste-testers to help me out.

Luckily, our team is always ready to try a new dish! After a couple of rounds getting the recipe just right, the team bit in and their eyes lit up – BINGO! We had it.

What makes these cupcakes special?

First, their light, fluffy and super moist thanks to the cranberry sauce. I could eat them just as they are without the cream cheese frosting. There would be no complaints on these for breakfast as a “muffin.”

Second, I love that they have a balanced sweetness. They’ve got a little, but not hit-you-in-the-face sugar sweetness that you often get with boxes or store-bought cupcakes. The average store-bought cupcake can pack around 27g of sugar! This recipe contains 11g with over half of that coming from natural sources like cranberries.

Third, I’m a sucker for cream cheese frosting and love the addition of cranberry sauce to add some flavor and turn it into a pretty pink color with no food coloring needed.

Cranberry Cupcakes Key Ingredients

The ingredients needed for these cupcakes are pretty standard, most of these items you can probably find in your pantry already. Here are a few things to keep in mind with this recipe:

Flour: This recipe called for standard all-purpose flour. I didn’t test these using a different type of flour, so I can’t guarantee that a gluten-free flour would give you the same fluffy texture.
Canned cranberry sauce: I used “whole cranberry sauce” but any type would do. Or if you have leftover cranberry sauce from a holiday celebration, that works too!
Honey: You could also swap for maple syrup (for a slightly different flavor) or agave nectar
Cream Cheese: Make sure to set this out a few hours before making the frosting so it has time to soften. It’ll make a huge difference in how easy it blends!

How many cupcakes does this recipe make?

This recipe made 16 cupcakes when I tested it at home. However, I made them at a friends house and it made 12. I think her muffin tin was slightly larger than mine. Maybe one was a “standard” size and the other wasn’t? Either way, be prepared for this recipe to make 12-16 cupcakes, depending on the side of your pan.

Cupcake Decorating Tips

Wanting to make your cupcakes look like they’re fresh from a cupcake shop? Go for it! Here are some tips.

Use a Piping Bag

Fill a piping bag with your frosting for that professional frosting look. Since the frosting does contain cranberry pieces, I’d use a tip with a larger opening so it doesn’t get clogged

Top with Sugared Cranberries

Give these cupcakes some added flair by topping with a sugared cranberry! Here’s how to make them:

Thaw frozen cranberries in water or small bowl at room temperature.
Toss in a little sugar until coated.
Add to your cupcakes!

Commonly Asked Questions About Our Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Q: What are the main ingredients in Cranberry Cupcakes?
A: The main ingredients in Cranberry Cupcakes are all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, eggs, canned cranberry sauce, melted butter, honey, vanilla, and cream cheese for the frosting.

Q: How many cupcakes does the Cranberry Cupcake recipe make?
A: The Cranberry Cupcake recipe makes 12-16 cupcakes depending on the size of your muffin tin.

Q: Does the cream cheese frosting need to be refrigerated?
A: Yes, any leftovers of the Cranberry Cupcakes with cream cheese frosting should be refrigerated. Let it warm up to room temperature before eating again.

Q: What makes these cupcakes a lighter dessert?
A: These cupcakes use healthier ingredients like Greek yogurt in the frosting and have less sugar than traditional cupcakes, with only 11g per serving.

Other Sweet, but Not Too Sweet Desserts to Try

Cranberry Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Enjoy a new spin on cupcakes with this lightened-up cranberry cupcake recipe! It’s made with canned cranberry sauce and topped with a cranberry cream cheese frosting for a sweet, but not too sweet, dessert.

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Keyword baking, cranberries, cranberry cupcakes, cupcakes, healthier desserts

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 20

Total Time 40

Servings

Calories 205kcal

Author Amanda Keefer

Equipment

Ingredients

Cupcakes

1¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
¼ tsp. salt
2 large eggs
1 cup canned cranberry sauce
½ cup unsalted butter melted
⅓ cup honey
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Frosting

8 oz. cream cheese softened
½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
2 Tbsp. canned cranberry sauce
1 Tbsp. honey
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Cupcakes
Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick cooking spray.
Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in large bowl.
In a separate bowl, beat eggs. Mix in cranberry sauce, butter, honey and vanilla.
Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients until just combined.
Fill muffin cups to about ¾ full. Bake 16-20 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (ovens can vary, check at 16 minutes). Remove from oven and let cool 2-3 minutes before removing from muffin tin and letting cool on wire rack.
Frosting
Beat cream cheese, yogurt, cranberry sauce, honey and vanilla with an electric mixer until smooth.
Spread evenly on top of cooled cupcakes before serving.

Video

Notes

The recipe makes 12-16 cupcakes, depending on the size of your muffin tin.
Make sure to let your cream cheese soften at room temperature before making the frosting. This will make it much easier to mix.
Refrigerate leftover cupcakes. Take out of refrigerator and store at room temperature for an hour if you want them "warmed up" for eating.

Nutrition

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