Holidays are not only an amazing time to get together with family and friends, but it is also the perfect opportunity to try out new dishes, whip up new recipes, and incorporate delicious flavors that will make everyone's mouth water. Better yet, because of all the variety during the holiday season, it is easy to integrate certain food groups, such as vegetables, which are often forgotten around the holidays, with so many other delectable treats.
Use Vegetables for Your Appetizers and Snacks
Snacking is a staple during the holiday season, especially when visiting relatives and friends or attending holiday parties. And chances are high that if appetizers are out, people will eat them. That is why one of the best ways to incorporate vegetables this holiday season is to set them out as a snack for an easy grazing option.
Take, for example, the following options:
- Put out veggie trays and Greek yogurt to use as a dip
- Serve cucumbers with delicious spreads
- Make salad skewers by combining vegetables and putting them on a stick for easy eating
- Provide steamed edamame
- Serve celery sticks with peanut butter.
Incorporate Veggie Side Dishes
In addition to some traditional favorites this holiday season, it may also be a great time to try some veggie sides that are not only nutrient-packed but rich in flavor that will complete any meal.
Consider the following:
- Flavorful salads
- Vegetable-based soups
- Bowls of roasted vegetables
Add Vegetables to the Sauces
If you are struggling to find ways to incorporate vegetables this holiday season, consider sneaking them into the sauces. Not only will this add nutrients to the dish, but many times, the vegetables blend in so well with the sauce that it is likely nobody will even notice the addition. Don't believe us? Add shredded vegetables, such as chopped carrots, to a tomato sauce, or switch up your standard alfredo sauce using blended cauliflower.
Make a Salad with the Leftovers
Following a big event or holiday dinner, you will likely have a significant amount of leftovers. However, before you reach for the loaf of bread the following day to create a leftover sandwich, turn these leftovers into a mouth-watering salad.
For instance, if you have any chicken or other proteins, put them on top of some leafy greens with a side of roasted vegetables. You will have a delicious feast ready to go in minutes.
Let Senior Helpers of Anderson Help With the Next Holiday Meal
The above recipes are not only tasty options for those looking to incorporate vegetables into their diet, but they are also incredibly easy to do. However, if your senior loved one needs some assistance with meal planning, grocery shopping, or other care services during the holidays and beyond, Senior Helpers of Anderson provides numerous types of assistance that can benefit them. Plus, because we also service Easley, Seneca, Belton, Liberty, Pickens, and Central, we are never too far to ensure your loved one gets the experienced caregivers they need. Contact us today for more information.
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8 Simple Ways to Add More Vegetables this Holiday Season