10 Ways to Host a Holiday Party with Health in Mind
The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and, of course, delicious food. While it’s easy to get carried away with festive treats, it’s important to approach holiday parties with health in mind. We present 10 ways to indulge in a healthy and mindful manner during your holiday gatherings.
Mindful Holiday Eating
1. Toss a Salad:
Start your holiday feast with a vibrant tossed salad. Combine lettuce greens, shredded cabbage, peppers, and grape tomatoes. Enhance the flavor with a homemade buttermilk ranch dressing that’s sure to impress your guests.
2. Use Frozen Fruits:
Add a burst of flavor to your beverages with bite-sized frozen fruits like cranberries or blueberries. Whether it’s punch, spritzers, or cocktails, these frozen delights will not only taste great but also add a festive touch to your drinks.
3. Veggie Tray Helper:
Create a colorful veggie tray paired with flavorful dips made from healthful alternatives like plain nonfat Greek yogurt, reduced-fat sour cream, or creamy Neufchâtel cheese. This guilt-free combination will satisfy your guests’ appetites without compromising on taste.
4. Festive Cheese Shapes:
Transform your cheese platter into a winter wonderland by using holiday cookie cutters to shape cheeses into fun snowflake and star designs. Pair these artistic cheese pieces with whole-grain crackers and flavorful whipped cream cheese spreads for a delightful experience.
5. Holiday Grazing Board:
Assemble a holiday grazing board that features a variety of cheeses, fresh and dried fruits, vanilla yogurt dip, cucumber slices, nuts, and dark chocolate bark. This visually appealing spread offers a mix of textures and flavors for a festive and healthy snacking experience.
6. Mocktail Magic:
Serve a festive mocktail punch made with a blend of frozen pineapple, orange, apple, and cranberry juice concentrates. This non-alcoholic option is not only delicious but also a refreshing alternative for guests looking to enjoy a tasty beverage without the extra calories.
7. Using Frozen Appetizers:
Heat up your holiday gathering with a selection of frozen appetizers, including mini vegetable potstickers, samosas, glazed cocktail meatballs, buffalo chicken bites, or mini pierogies. Pair them with savory dipping sauces for an irresistible treat.
8. Phyllo Shell Creations:
Get creative with frozen phyllo shells by adding your favorite fillings to make mini brie tartlets, mini quiches, or mini cheesecakes topped with fruit. These bite-sized delights are perfect for those who want a taste of indulgence without overdoing it.
9. Portion-Controlled Party Favorites:
Slice prepared party favorites like frozen pizza, flatbread, or spinach and cheese-filled spanakopita into small, grab-and-go portions. This ensures that guests can enjoy their favorites without overindulging.
10. Move More During the Holidays:
Set aside 30-60 minutes to incorporate some physical activity into your holiday routine. Exercise not only helps reduce stress but also boosts your calorie burn, providing a healthy balance to offset any holiday indulgences.
Healthy Holiday Party Tips
Be mindful of beverages
Beverage calories can add up fast. Wine, beer and mixed drinks add 150 to 250 calories or more, while traditional eggnog contains nearly 400 calories per cup.
Grab a smaller plate
Reduce your plate size from 11-inch to 9-inch to help keep portion sizes in check.
Quality not quantity
Scan all food and beverage offerings on the menu and be selective about including your party favorites.
Balance your choices
Stick to one plate of food. Balance healthier options with more indulgent holiday treats.
Move away from the buffet
Socialize away from food displays to make the occasion more about people than holiday treats!
This holiday season, embrace a health-conscious approach to party planning. With these 10 mindful tips, you can enjoy the festivities without sacrificing your well-being. Cheers to a healthy and happy holiday season!
What foods will you be including in your holiday spread? Share with us on social media @EasyHomeMeals!
