Healthy Holidays

Many people try to stay fit throughout the holidays, or realize they should start making healthier choices around this time. With all the holiday parties spent with family and friends this can be rather challenging. A couple of my biggest weaknesses is the snacking before the meal and the delicious desserts after. Below I gave some of my favorite snacks and dessert recipes that you can make as a healthy alternative without the guilty feeling.

Snacks:

Instead of reaching in the chip bowl time and time again, try making these Cinnamon Apple Chips while you have some down time at home that you can provide at your own party or take with you.

You will need:
1-2 apples of your choice
1 tsp cinnamon


Instructions:
Preheat oven to 200 degrees
Use a sharp knife of mandolin, slice the apples thinly. Prepare baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange apple slices without overlapping. Sprinkle cinnamon over apples.
Bake for about 1 hour, then flip. Continue to bake for 1-2 hours, flipping occasionally, until the apple slices are no longer moist.
Store in airtight container.

Another great healthy appetizer is a fruit tray.

You will need:
Any fruits of your choice sliced. I like to use apples and bananas for this dish.

Instructions:
Mix 1/4 C of peanut butter with 1 C yogurt of your choice. I like to use strawberry.
Slice up your fruit and serve chilled.

Last but not least, a veggie tray is always a go to, quick option. Carrots, snap peas, cucumber, and broccoli are a few simple veggies you can display nicely while providing a nutritious appetizer.

Dessert:

No Bake Brownies

You Will Need:
1 1/2 C Walnuts
Pinch of Salt
1 C Pitted Dates
1 TSP Vanilla
1/3 C Unsweetened Cocoa Powder



Instructions:
Add walnuts and salt to a blender or food processor. Mix until the walnuts are finely ground.
Add dates, vanilla, and cocoa powder to the blender. Mix until everything is combined. As the blender is still running, add a couple drops of water to ensure the ingredients is stuck together.
Use a spatula and transfer the mixture into a bowl.
With your hands, form small round balls by rolling them in your palm.
Store in airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Hope this helps; enjoy the holiday season! Best wishes of health, fitness, and happiness!