Lean Winter Recipes to Stay Warm and Healthy

Colder temperatures always have us wanting to ditch the salads and reach for some warm comfort foods. Unfortunately, many classic winter dishes tend to be on the heavy side and full of not-the-best-for-you ingredients. 

So, we’ve rounded up just a few of our go-to lean winter recipes that are good for you, but will still satisfy those cozy food cravings.

Photo courtesy of the Kitchn

Chile-lime Salmon Tacos

Not only do these tacos taste amazing, they also make a super quick and easy weeknight meal. Just season, broil, assemble, and boom, you’re eating well.

Tacos are not always a healthy option, especially if you pair them with a big bowl of chips. But this recipe calls for corn tortillas and no cheese, which helps keep the amount of fat low. 

And with the spice of the chili powder and the zesty lime, you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything.

 
Photo courtesy of Delish

Quinoa Vegetable Soup

This soup recipe from Delish is the perfect dish for a hearty Meatless Monday meal without having to load up on pasta or rice. 

Why we love it: Quinoa is a supergrain full of protein and fiber, and even has anti-inflammatory properties. And while this recipe calls for carrots, celery and zucchini, it’s super versatile and can be made with whatever your favorite veggies are.

Vegetarian not your style? While the cannellini beans add plenty of protein and will help fill you up, it’s easy to modify this recipe. Just cook 1 pound of lean ground chicken or italian sausage and add with the broth.

 
Photo courtesy of EatingWell

Green Chili Turkey Burgers

Fire up the grill (or grill pan. Let’s be real, it’s cold outside), because you are going to want to make these burgers from EatingWell.

This recipe is a winner because lean ground turkey has less fat than beef, but the kick from the pepper jack cheese and green chilies provides tons of flavor. 

Plus it calls for whole wheat tortillas instead of buns, which contain more nutrients and less fiber than regular white burger buns. Of course, you can easily swap the tortilla for a gluten-free bun or lettuce wrap.

And to go dairy free, simply skip the cheese and substitute a dairy-free sour cream. Kite Hill has a great almond milk-based sour cream that barely tastes any different, and it’s sold at most Target locations.