Easter presents the perfect opportunity to get creative with your meals. Whether you’re hosting an Easter brunch, dinner, or family gathering, these 10 healthy and creative recipes are sure to make your meal a success. From stuffed mushrooms to roasted veggies and fruit, there is something for everyone!
Substitute whole grains for white flour in your holiday recipes.
If you’re looking for a way to give your Easter recipes an extra nutrition boost, try substituting whole grains for white flour. When selecting whole grain flours, look for whole wheat pastry flour, which is higher in fiber and usually lighter in texture than regular whole wheat flour. You can also play around with different types of flours like almond flour or oat flour for added flavor and nutrition.
Prepare a salad using greens, fruits and vegetables instead of serving creamy potato salad.
Potato salad is a classic accompaniment to any Easter dinner but you can give it a nutrition boost by substituting greens, fruits and vegetables for potatoes! You still get the creamy texture of a potato salad but with an added health spin. Try making a delicious and creative combination of fresh greens like spinach or kale, tossed with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or peppers and sweet fruits like strawberries or oranges. Top it off with a light dressing made from olive oil, mustard, honey and balsamic vinegar for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
Use herbs and spices to add flavor to your dishes without added calories or fat.
Herbs and spices are one of the most flavorful, economical and nutritious ways to give your dishes a boost. They can be used to enhance the flavor of roasted vegetables, grilled proteins, stews or even pasta dishes. Not only do herbs and spices add remarkable flavor but they also provide health benefits like added antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Try rosemary, thyme or oregano on your next dish for an antioxidant rich punch of flavor!
Try replacing butter with healthier options such as olive oil or avocado oil when baking goods for Easter.
You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture when replacing butter with healthier options! Swapping butter for olive oil or avocado oil makes your bakes more nutritious and just as delicious. Both oils contain healthy monounsaturated fats that can help regulate cholesterol levels and provide essential fatty acids. Additionally, avocado oil is an excellent source of vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against free radicals in the body. Try these oils in cakes, muffins and other holiday treats- they're sure to be a hit at any Easter feast!
Don’t forget about omega-3 fatty acids - include nuts, chia seeds and flaxseeds where possible your meals.
Including sources of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is essential for good health, as these fats provide anti-inflammatory properties and are important for cell membrane formation. Nuts like walnuts, almonds and cashews are an excellent source of omega-3s, as well as ground flaxseeds and chia seeds. Combine these with other ingredients such as oats or dark chocolate pieces to make healthy treats perfect for school lunches or snacks throughout the day. Not only do these provide a nutritious option for the adults during the Easter celebrations, but they ensure that children get their necessary daily dose of Omega-3 fatty acids too!
