Tis the season for entertaining, getting together with friends and family, and ringing in the New Year. If you’re embarking on a weight loss journey, do you want to miss out on all the fun? We didn’t think so, which is why we’re here to share five delicious holiday recipes under 500 calories to keep you slim while enjoying the best flavors of the season.
“One of the best ways to balance flavor and tradition while keeping holiday dishes lower in calories is to focus on fresh herbs and seasonal produce,” The Nutrition Twins®, Tammy Lakatos Shames, RD, CDN, CFTAnd Lyssie Lakatos, RD, CDN, CFTwho sit on our Council of Medical Experts, tell us. “They will still help fill you up with low calories and fiber while giving you a boost of antioxidants that help fight inflammation that contributes to chronic disease. [and] weight gain.”
Additionally, when choosing protein, opt for leaner cuts of meat and fish, such as loin and round, as well as poultry breast. Also keep oil, butter and cheese light.
The meals we’ve rounded up below offer endless possibilities. They’re easy to make and bring to a potluck dinner, serve to guests, or add to your weekly rotation. Now is the time to check them out and update your shopping list!
The recipes
Protein pancakes with pumpkin and banana cream syrup
Nutrition (Per 2 servings):
Calories: 196
Saturated fat: 0.5 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Crabs: 25 g (Fiber: 4 g)
Protein: 20 g
If you want a delicious weight loss breakfast without excess carbs and sugar, these protein pancakes are for you. Pumpkin Banana Cream Syrup adds a decadent touch without derailing your progress.
“At just under 200 calories, they contain 20 grams of protein to keep you feeling full for hours, control your cravings, and help you avoid overeating later,” explain The Nutrition Twins. “But unlike most breakfasts that help you lose body fat, these are so delicious you’ll want to eat the whole batch—and you can!—and for less than 400 calories! Plus, if you want, you’ll get a whopping 40 grams of protein at breakfast.
Incorporating a vegetable into every meal is one of the best things you can do to lose weight. In this recipe, you get the benefits of beta-carotene and antioxidant-rich pumpkin, which provide fiber and decrease inflammation.
Get the recipe from The nutritional twins.
Cheese, Egg and Apple Breakfast
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 203
Fat: 7 g (Saturated fats: 2 g)
Sodium: 499 mg
Crabs: 15 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 10 g)
Protein: 21 g
Let’s be honest: there’s nothing like waking up to a warm, cheesy egg to enjoy!
“This decadent-tasting weight-loss pastry knocks it out of the park when it comes to balancing the warm, comforting flavors and dishes of holidays and tradition with a low-calorie, waistline-friendly meal,” they tell us. The Nutrition Twins. “Eggs are one of the most satisfying foods, and thanks to their protein, they can keep you satisfied for hours.”
This cheese, egg, and apple breakfast recipe calls for additional egg whites to keep the calorie count low while still providing more protein. Plus, while the cheese makes this breakfast option indulgent, there’s only a teaspoon of added oil and a tiny amount of turkey bacon for added flavor without making it too high in calories.
“Warm apples add the perfect cozy sweetness and boost of heart-healthy fiber and flavonoids without adding sugar,” explain The Nutrition Twins. “And for just over 200 calories and over 20 grams of protein per serving, you can’t go wrong with this cheesy pastry! It encompasses many different flavors and textures and is perfect for serving for brunch.”
Get the recipe from The nutritional twins.
Salmon in Grenada
Calories: 500
Salmon with Pomegranate Arils and Fresh Herbs is a perfect holiday meal to enjoy for a weekday dinner or when entertaining guests. The delicious combination of sweet and savory flavors is sure to be a fan favorite!
“In just 500 calories, you’ll feel satisfied and satisfied with 35 grams of protein, so you won’t be hungry hours later. Plus, anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants from pomegranates and herbs will help fight inflammation that leads to weight gain,” The Nutrition Twins point out.
They suggest including a side of steamed broccoli to increase the nutrient content and satiety of the meal and reducing the oil to reduce the calorie count. “Even reducing 2 tablespoons of oil from the recipe will reduce 60 calories from each serving,” the Nutrition Twins explain.
Get the recipe from Jenny Shea Raw.
Chicken stuffed with white cheddar, apples and cranberries
Calories: 375 calories
Two of the most festive foods you can enjoy during the holidays are apples and cranberries, and this recipe pairs them with chicken and white cheddar for a delicious meal.
“The secret to keeping this dish weight loss-friendly and under 400 calories is that it uses lean chicken breast along with modest portions of foods that might add up more quickly, like olive oil, cheddar cheese and cranberry sauce” The Nutrition Twins explain. “The spinach and red onions add extra fiber and antioxidants, while the chicken also helps keep you on track when it comes to satiety.”
Get the recipe from Nutritionist opinion.
Butternut Squash Lasagna Without Noodles
Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 402
Fat: 19 g
Crabs: 30 g
Protein: 29 g
It wouldn’t be the holidays without lasagna appearing on the table. This beloved meal usually gets a bad rap for being loaded with calories, but this recipe offers a healthy twist.
“This version features beta-carotene-rich butternut squash, which is pasta-free, so it doesn’t have the refined carbs and calories found in traditional lasagna,” The Nutrition Twins explain. “It also uses part-skim ricotta and mozzarella, helping to control calories (just 402 calories!). With 29 grams of protein, this lasagna will help keep you full and is perfect for anyone craving food comforting but trying to avoid the weight gain that comes with the holidays.
Get the recipe from Lean taste.
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