For many, baking treats in the kitchen is a holiday tradition, but there may be people on your list who would appreciate a break from all the sweets. Some may be dealing with health issues like Type 2 Diabetes or Metabolic Syndrome and it can be overwhelming having a ton of sweets around.
I don’t believe you need to lighten up favorite recipes especially when there are some healthier food items that already fit the bill just the way they are. If you have people on your holiday list you think may appreciate something a bit different try a few of these options.
- Make some granola. Granola in a Mason jar is a lovely gift and provides a nice healthy breakfast for the busy holiday season. Just make sure to use a healthy granola recipe (they aren’t all on the healthy side). Try our favorite Almond Granola, it’s a good one! Everyone loves this recipe and it’s a low glycemic sweet treat without all the sugar.
- Send a box of cuties. I have a big Italian family and the sweets on the counter top fill every space during the holidays. Every year my aunt and uncle would travel to our house and pick up a big box of mandarin oranges. It was always a nice break between all the sweets. It also provides beauty and color for the table and a wonderful festive aroma for your home.
- Soup in a jar. Putting together dry legumes, rice/pasta and seasonings in a mason jar is a beautiful gift. It looks festive and provides an easy meal during the busy holiday. Just attach a quick recipe and you’re good to go.
- Make some salsa. This is one of my favorite ideas. Everyone loves salsa and it’s great to have on hand for snacking in between shopping or to use on your scrambled eggs in the morning. Here’s one of our recipes for Poblano and Cilantro Salsa.
- Assorted coffees and teas. I’m sure you have some coffee and tea lovers on your list. This is a great way to provide your friend’s home with something completely useful especially when they may have lots of family and friend’s staying at their home.
Giving the gift of food is such a great holiday tradition and a great way to bring people together around the table. Happy Holidays!
About the Blogger:
Meri Raffetto is the founder of Real Living Nutrition, triplet mom and author of the Glycemic Index Diet for Dummies and coauthor of the Glycemic Index Cookbook for Dummies, and Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Dummies.
