After a long winter’s day, there’s nothing better than coming home to a comfort food dinner. While many comfort foods are heavy, high-calorie and unhealthy, we’ve got some healthy favorites that you can indulge in all winter long.
Skinny Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
This Skinny Cauliflower Mac and Cheese recipe from Damn Delicious is a tasty alternative to the traditional, carb-laden pasta dish. By adding two cups of cauliflower florets to the dish along with the macaroni, you get a veggie boost while also decreasing the amount of carbs. Garlic, onion and a combination of cheddar, gruyère and parmesan cheese all combine to make a flavorful, hearty mac and cheese dish without all the calories you’ve come to expect.
Braised Tomato and Leek Soup With Tilapia
Nothing warms you up faster than a big bowl of soup, and this Braised Tomato and Leek Soup recipe from Regal Springs is sure be a family favorite this winter. It’s got a seafood-based broth that’s been seasoned with roasted garlic and oregano, as well as tomatoes and leeks that are braised in a white wine sauce. The Tilapia is cooked separately to ensure it stays tender and moist and is served on top of the soup. It’s a dish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Spinach and Ricotta Pizza
Pizza that’s healthy and tasty? Yes, it’s possible—thanks to this Spinach and Ricotta Pizza recipe from The Food Network! Instead of unhealthy toppings like pepperoni and extra cheese, this pizza features spinach, low-fat ricotta, basil and part-skim mozzarella. If you’ve got little ones at home, they’ll love helping you top the pizzas before you put them in the oven.
Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia
If you’re a fan of chicken parmesan, you’ll love this lighter, low-calorie variation. This Parmesan-Crusted Tilapia recipe from Recipe Diaries has only six ingredients but has tons of flavor, thanks to the medley of parsley flakes, paprika and garlic powder. All you need to do is coat the Tilapia fillets in the spices and parmesan, drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes.
Mexican Zucchini Burrito Boats
Looking for a simple, gluten-free meal that will fill you up without leaving you weighed down? Try this Mexican Zucchini Burrito Boats recipe from Making Thyme for Health. They’re packed with veggies like tomatoes, bell pepper, corn and zucchini and are flavored with a Mexican-inspired blend of spices. If you’re looking for an extra protein boost, try adding some baked fish fillets alongside the veggies!
Spaghetti Squash Tetrazzini
This delicious Spaghetti Squash Tetrazzini recipe from Chatelaine has the flavor and creaminess of lasagna, but without all the calories. First, cook the cremini and porcini mushrooms in a white wine sauce with garlic and spices. Then, mix them in with strands of spaghetti squash before being topped with light cheese and tomato slices. Spaghetti squash makes a great healthy pasta alternative because it’s in season, gluten-free and low in carbs.
With these tasty comfort food recipes, you’re sure to spend the winter warm, cozy—and healthy.
Photo credits: Jane Rix / Shutterstock.com, Damn Delicious, Regal Springs, Food Network, Recipe Diaries, Making Thyme for Health, Chatelaine
