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Turkey -

The ultimate dish of the festive season is actually one of the healthiest on this list. Roast turkey is nutritionally rich, filling, and delicious.

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Turkey -

Turkey is low-fat, has zero carbs, and it's a great source of lean protein. It's also rich in B vitamins, potassium, zinc, and iron. Just avoid eating the skin, and don't drown it in gravy.

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Red cabbage -

Raw or cooked, red cabbage is a winner during the holidays. It's rich in vitamin C, which is great for our immune system. Plus, it has plenty of vitamin K, zinc, calcium, and magnesium.

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Carrots -

What is there not to love about carrots? They taste great and are rich in vitamin A, which is important for our eye health.

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Sweet potatoes -

Sweet potatoes are a great option during this time of year. They can be enjoyed as a side or on their own. They're rich in vitamins A and C, as well as manganese. They are also an excellent source of beta-carotene.

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Hot cocoa -

Swap the eggnog for a nice cup of hot cocoa. Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, which have anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Brussels sprouts -

Love them or hate them, Brussels sprouts are a quintessential holiday food—and a pretty nutritious one, too!

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Brussels sprouts -

These miniature cabbages are packed with goodness, including high quantities of vitamins K and C. Brussels sprouts are also rich in other vitamins, as well as fiber and minerals.

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Parsnip -

Rich in potassium and folate, this amazing root vegetable can be a great healthy addition to your table during the festive season.

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Cauliflower -

Because the taste of cauliflower is pretty neutral, you can get really creative with it. Rich in vitamins B6, C, and K, cauliflower is very low in calories, making it a perfect addition to your table during the festivities.

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Cranberries -

If you're looking for a powerful antioxidant to add to your diet during the holidays, cranberries are a great choice. They are also rich in anthocyanins, which are chemical compounds with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Cranberries -

In some countries, cranberry sauce is traditionally served with turkey during the holiday season. Some versions of these have more sugar than others, so beware of that if you consume it.

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Nuts -

Nuts are the perfect snack to place on your table during the holidays. They are rich in both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, as well as protein.

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Nuts -

Nuts are also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They are calorically dense though, so don't overindulge on them.

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Mushrooms -

Fungi are great for us. They're a source of vitamin D (which is particularly helpful during winter) and selenium, and they're also rich in B vitamins.

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Pumpkin -

Pumpkins are quite versatile, and can be cooked in a number of ways. They work equally well in sweet and savory dishes. They are packed with beta-carotene, vitamins A and K, and plenty of cooper and potassium.

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Shrimp cocktails -

Shrimp (or prawn) cocktails are definitely not the unhealthiest option when it comes to starters. These crustaceans are rich in protein, low in calories, and great sources of B vitamins, as well as iron and selenium.

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Pomegranate -

This potent antioxidant fruit can be added to salads or be eaten on its own. In fact, you can pretty much sprinkle their juicy seeds anywhere!

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Green beans -

Green beans are packed with nutritional goodness, including lots of folate and fiber. You can boil, steam, or roast these gorgeous veggies.

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Butternut squash -

This holiday favorite is especially rich in vitamins A and C, as well as other antioxidants, potassium, and manganese.

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Collard greens -

These are cooked in many different ways, but are an excellent addition to a holiday meal. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Collard greens are particularly rich in vitamin K and antioxidants.

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Chestnuts -

What is there not to love about chestnuts? They are rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, gallic and ellagic acids, as well as fiber and potassium.

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Yams -

These are sometimes confused with sweet potatoes, but these root vegetables have their own place on the table, especially in parts of Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean. And just one yam has 369% of the daily vitamin A requirement!

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Acorn squash -

Acorn squash is an excellent source of beta-carotene. As for dishes, it can be served as a side, starter, or anything in between.

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Stuffing -

Stuffing is usually made using bread and herbs, but sometimes a protein source, such as meat or eggs, is added. While not very calorie-friendly, if done with quality ingredients, it can actually be a healthy addition to a dish.

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Fruit -

There are plenty of cooked fruit desserts to choose from. They are a much healthier alternative to the sugar- and fat-rich traditional desserts, and look and taste as festive!

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Fruit -

And the fruit doesn't even need to be cooked, either. You can get creative with some sugar-free whipped cream and strawberries, for example. You'll get the calcium and vitamin A from the cream, and the antioxidants from the strawberries.

Sources: (The Healthy) (Women's Health) (Consumer Reports) (Verywell Fit)

See also: Quick and easy recipes that will save your Christmas

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