Do you find yourself making the same holiday dishes each year? We totally get it — those recipes are classic and probably a bit nostalgic. But if you’re ready to shake things up a bit this holiday season, we’ve got a fantastic selection of healthy and delicious options for you to explore, all under 200 calories per serving.
Our low-calorie recipes for side dishes and desserts cater to diverse dietary preferences and include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Plus, they are extra mindful of those holiday calories. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or just getting started in the kitchen, see what catches your eye on this list — there’s something here for everyone.
Low-Calorie Holiday Sides
Winter Goat Cheese Salad With Orange Vinaigrette (189 calories)
Start your holiday feast on a refreshing note with a leafy green salad that’ll be sure to wow any guest. The combination of crisp arugula, sweet oranges, pops of pomegranate seeds, creamy goat cheese, and perfectly roasted nuts is so good you’ll be craving it on repeat.
Oil-Free Cornbread Muffins (122 calories)
Ditch the traditional cornbread and opt for these oil-free cornbread muffins. It uses unsweetened applesauce instead of oil to add natural sweetness while cutting down the fat.
Herbed Sourdough Stuffing Muffins (108 calories)
Stuffing is a holiday staple, and these herbed sourdough stuffing muffins provide all the festive flavors you love while making portion control a no-brainer.
Blistered Shishito Peppers With Prosciutto (77 calories)
Spice up your plate with the bold flavors of blistered shishito peppers paired with the savory goodness of crispy prosciutto.
Cauliflower Mac and Cheese (131 calories)
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Craving the creamy goodness of mac and cheese? This cauliflower version cuts down on calories while still delivering those comforting flavors you love.
Roasted Green Bean Bacon Salad (170 calories)
Charred green beans, crispy bacon, and a zesty balsamic dressing create a mouthwatering side dish. Plus, it can be prepped ahead, giving you more time to spend with company.
Roasted Artichoke Salad (140 calories)
Artichoke lovers, rejoice! Indulge in the goodness of this roasted artichoke salad, a flavorful and low-calorie option to elevate your holiday meal.
Mayo-Less Potato Salad (150 calories)
This side dish features perfectly steamed red potatoes bathed in an herby mustard vinaigrette. A delicious way to enjoy potatoes — plus, it makes for great leftovers.
Low-Calorie Holiday Desserts
No-Bake Chocolate Peppermint Bliss Balls (65 calories)
Packed with the wholesome goodness of raw cashews and Medjool dates, these naturally sweetened delights are the perfect treat to end your holiday meal on a high note.
Lightened-Up Dark Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake Bars (155 calories)
Hey, cheesecake fans! These dessert bars feature a luscious cheesecake filling nestled on a graham cracker crust, topped with sliced strawberries and a decadent dark chocolate drizzle. You won’t even notice it’s “lightened” up.
Baked Apples With Cinnamon Pecan Topping (135 calories)
Warm, spiced, and utterly satisfying, these baked apples with cinnamon pecan topping provide the sweetness you crave without derailing your weight loss goals.
Greek Yogurt Gingerbread Loaf (185 calories)
Embrace the festive flavors of gingerbread with this homemade loaf. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and spice — and great for gifting, too.
Light & Tasty Speculaas Cookies (48 calories)
These speculaas cookies are a delightful twist on the spiced shortbread tradition. They are typically made for Dutch St. Nicholas Day celebrations. They’re a fun addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Gluten-Free Almond Kiss Cookies (97 calories)
For those with gluten sensitivities, these gluten-free almond kiss cookies offer a delicious alternative without sacrificing taste.
Lightened-Up Homemade Eggnog (80 calories)
Toast to the holidays with a glass of lightened-up homemade eggnog. Give this classic beverage a healthy upgrade!
Healthy Baked Apple Topping (158 calories)
Elevate nearly any dessert with this healthy baked apple topping. It's a versatile and low-calorie option that brings just the right amount of sweetness.
