Between the Holiday Feasts: 10 Healthy & Easy Weeknight Recipes
Got a plan for what you’ll do in between holiday meals?
When most of us think about holiday food, we usually imagine fancy tablescapes, lavish meals, and joyous family members and friends gathered around. Of course. But those two or three grand celebrations are just part of the overall holiday season.
We’ve got to eat in between the holiday feasts, right? And not just any in-between meal will do.
We want holiday feast alternatives that are tasty, nutritious, and ideally, quick to prepare. Those are the recipes that skyrocket to the top of everyone’s “I love it!” list.
So, we’ve gathered together 10 recipes we’re certain you’ll enjoy preparing, eating, and serving between your holiday meals. Enjoy!
Quick Dinner Recipe #1 for Between Holiday Meals: Roasted Chicken with Apple Dressing and Pomegranate Gastrique
A whole chicken is one of our go-to weeknight dinner ideas. One chicken is often enough to satisfy most families, and any leftovers can be used to make a quick sandwich or salad the next day. This elegant recipe echoes the holiday season while also maintaining a casual simplicity. Bonus! Prep for this recipe only requires small bursts of effort with lots of space in between to make a couple simple side dishes, walk your pupper, or take a crucial holiday rest.
Quick Dinner Recipe #2 for Between Holiday Meals: Mediterranean Beef Tacos with Squash Tortillas
If you want the dishes your family enjoys in between holiday meals to offer a noticeable departure from all the usual holiday themes, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe with flourless squash tortillas will hit the spot. And if there are young chefs in your household, expect their enthusiastic participation as you prep this tasty and innovative holiday feast alternative.
Quick Dinner Recipe #3 for Between Holiday Meals: Pork Burgers
What’s easier and more comforting than a handmade burger? This recipe pays homage to the underrated burger excellence of pasture-raised pork and the ideal collection of spices. Pork is a lean alternative to the traditional beef burger, and therefore offers a healthy balance to the many indulgent meals we enjoy during the holiday season.
Quick Dinner Recipe #4 for Between Holiday Meals: Classic Chicken Cobb Salad
Instead of waiting for the usual “New Year, New You” craze, how about incorporating more healthy greens into your diet right now? After a series of heavy holiday meals, this refreshing Chicken Cobb Salad is a lighter option that’s no less gratifying. Plus, this colorful salad is a sight to behold so it’ll elicit several oohs and aahs before, during, and after eating.
Quick Dinner Recipe #5 for Between Holiday Meals: Filet with Cured Asparagus and Lemon Butter
Steak is our go-to when we’re short on time but still craving a meal that feels special. Grass-fed and grass-finished filet delivers that elevated feeling that matches the holiday season while only requiring minimal prep and cleanup. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner, or serve this with a fried or poached egg on top for a hearty brunch dish.
Quick Dinner Recipe #6 for Between Holiday Meals: Pollo alla Lucana (Lucanian Chicken)
This simple and elegant recipe comes from the mountainous Basilicata region in Southern Italy. Green olives, fresh sage, and peperoni cruschi come together to produce an earthy flavor that’s light and sweet, with only the subtlest tones of spice. We like to serve this family style with boiled fingerling potatoes or a side of rice. Buon appetito!
Quick Dinner Recipe #7 for Between Holiday Meals: Pastured Pork Chorizo Breakfast Hash
If you’re also a member of the Breakfast for Dinner crowd, this recipe should be in your regular rotation. For dinner, breakfast, brunch, or even a quick lunch. It hits the spot every time, while also being full of fiber, protein, and nutrients galore.
Quick Dinner Recipe #8 for Between Holiday Meals: Texas-Style Chili with Ground Pork and Beef
Chili is a cozy way to balance the winter chills, and this Texas-Style recipe does not disappoint. It delivers a depth of flavor that even the most discerning chili-lover will appreciate, featuring just the right amount of spicy and smoky.
Quick Dinner Recipe #9 for Between Holiday Meals: Orange Chicken with Broccoli Rice
Try this low-carb delight and watch your nutritionist nod in approval. Similar to the popular flavors of sweet and sour chicken, this variation features a base of fiber-rich broccoli rice and fresh orange zest and juice. For a nutritious dinner idea that offers guilt-free indulgence, this is it.
Quick Dinner Recipe #10 for Between Holiday Meals: Beef Sliders
This recipe took the iconic American hamburger and dialed it up a notch. Or seven. An easy weeknight meal, serve these juicy beef sliders on a warm brioche or ciabatta roll with the right amount of dijon mustard, and don’t forget the pesto! Adult and tiny hands alike will enjoy devouring these fun and flavorful sliders.
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