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4 Tips on Making Holiday Food Favorites
Healthier and Delicious
(c) The Right Chef - Immuno Laboratories, Inc.
Many people find it hard to continue with a healthy eating regime over the holidays. The sheer quantity of pre-packed, pre-cooked food that offers convenience may seem irresistible, especially when we are pushed for time. However, these foods tend to ooze fat and calories, leaving us feeling sluggish, tired - and usually very guilty.
 Many recipes that require minimal time and effort will provide tasty and nutritious alternatives to traditional, more fattening holiday snacks and meals. 
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There is an alternative for those who are prepared to put in a little through and effort. Many recipes that require minimal time and effort will provide tasty and nutritious alternatives to traditional, more fattening holiday snacks and meals.
Some very simple examples of low-fat holiday recipes and substitutes include:
Chocolate-dipped orange
This is a great alternative to boxed chocolates, and many different types of fruits can be used. You get the enjoyment of chocolate combined with the vitamins and goodness of fruit. To make these you need:
2 squares dark chocolate (unsweetened)
2 small oranges, peeled and segmented
½ tbsp whipping cream
Dash of vanilla extract
Combine the cream and chocolate in a bowl and microwave for one minute on medium, stirring halfway through. Stir in the vanilla extract and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Dip the orange segments in the mixture until coated. Place segments on baking sheet and refrigerate until set.
Roast Chickpeas
These are a great alternative to fattening nuts, and for those who suffer from nut allergies. You will need:
1 can of chickpeas
Low-fat spray oil
Salt, pepper and coriander
Place the drained and rinsed chickpeas on a baking sheet and spray with low-calorie oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and coriander. Roast on gas mark 7 for around 30 minutes, or until golden and crisp.
Garlic Vegetables
These tasty vegetables can be eaten as a snack or as part of a main meal. Low-fat, healthy, and packed with nutrients and vitamins, this is a great way to serve vegetables. You can use a variety of veggies, including: broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, peppers, courgettes, onions and carrots. You'll need:
Selection of vegetables, chopped and washed
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp salt and pepper
Low-calorie spray oil
Place vegetables in a casserole dish and spray with low-calorie oil. Stir well, cover and roast on gas mark 6 for 15 minutes. Remove from oven - roasting should have produced natural vegetables juices. Add garlic powder, salt and pepper, and stir into the juice and vegetables. Return to over for a further 15-20 minutes.
Healthy Eggnog
A seasonal favorite, this provides the warmth and goodness of regular eggnog but with fewer calories and less fat. You'll need:
½ cup of egg substitute
3 tbsp low cal sugar substitute
13oz evaporated skimmed milk
¾ cup skimmed milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
3oz dry sherry or rum
Nutmeg
Whip the egg substitute and sugar substitute together. Stir in the evaporated and skimmed milk, and the alcohol. Mix well and chill. Sprinkle with nutmeg before serving.
There are many holiday recipe books on the market, which will help you to make festive and elaborate meals with just a portion of the fat and calories. With the quantity of lower-fat substitutes available, healthy cooking is becoming easier and more popular.
Be sure to test yourself for hidden food allergies and be careful to eliminate any food allergens or intolerances that you or your guests may have to any food items. By doing this, you can identify any foods to be avoided and base your recipes around food items that are safe for you to eat.
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