Festive Fitness Fuel

By Emily Kho, Contributing Blogger

As December is in full swing, bringing with it the festive cheer and a whirlwind of activities, we know how important it is to stay energized and healthy. That's why we're excited to share with you a delightful recipe that not only tastes like the holiday season but also keeps your fitness goals in check. 

In this bustling month of joy and celebration, it's easy to lose track of our health and fitness routines. But fear not, as we've got you covered with a recipe that is as nutritious as it is delicious, ensuring you stay on top of your wellness game while indulging in the seasonal festivities.

Gingerbread Energy Bites

The Gingerbread Energy Bites recipe comes from registered dietitian Alexis Joseph via her blog, Hummusapien. The recipe makes 18 servings, taking 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes of rest for a total cook time of 45 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond flour
• ½ cup oat flour
• ¼ cup ground flax seed
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp fine sea salt
• ½ cup almond butter
• 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 tbsp water

Directions

1. Combine almond flour, oat flour, flax, cinnamon, ginger, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add almond butter, maple syrup, molasses, and water. Use your hands to mix together until a smooth dough forms.
3. Roll into balls. Store in the refrigerator.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Almond Flour: A low-carb alternative to regular flour, almond flour is rich in protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats, which are great for heart health and maintaining energy levels.
• Oat Flour: Made from whole oats, oat flour is a good source of fiber, especially beta-glucan, known for its heart health benefits. It also provides a steady release of energy, perfect for fueling your workouts.
• Ground Flax Seed: Flax seeds are a powerhouse of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber, supporting heart health and aiding in digestion.
• Cinnamon: This aromatic spice is not just for flavor; it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Ground Ginger: Besides adding a warm, spicy flavor, ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits.
• Fine Sea Salt: Just a touch of salt enhances flavors and also provides trace minerals.
• Almond Butter: Almond butter is an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like E and B2. It's perfect for sustaining energy and keeping you satiated.
• Pure Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and can provide a quick boost of energy.
• Molasses: Rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium, molasses adds depth to the flavor while contributing to your daily nutrient intake.

Winter Vegetable Soup

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​​The recipe for Winter Vegetable Soup recipe comes from the blog Cookie and Kate. It makes a total of 4 to 6 servings. This recipe takes 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes to cook, for a total cook time of 1 hour.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 to 2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, sweet potatoes or butternut squash
• 6 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• Scant 1 cup quinoa, rinsed well in a fine mesh colander (use less for a lighter, more broth-y soup)
• 4 cups (32 ounces) vegetable broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
• 2 bay leaves
• Pinch red pepper flakes
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 can (15 ounces) great northern beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup or more chopped fresh kale or collard greens, tough ribs removed
• 1 to 2 teaspoons lemon juice, to taste

Directions

1. Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, seasonal vegetables and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring often, until the onion has softened and is turning translucent, about 6 to 8 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and thyme. Cook until fragrant while stirring frequently, about 1 minute. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and cook for a few more minutes, stirring often.
3. Pour in the quinoa, broth and the water. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 2 bay leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Raise heat and bring the mixture to a boil, then partially cover the pot and reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.
4. Cook for 25 minutes, then remove the lid and add the beans and the chopped greens. Continue simmering for 5 minutes or more, until the greens have softened to your liking.
5. Remove the pot from heat, then remove the bay leaves. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Taste and season with more salt, pepper and/or lemon juice until the flavors really sing. (You might need up to ½ teaspoon more salt, depending on your vegetable broth and your personal preferences.) Divide into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if you’d like.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa is also high in fiber and various vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent post-workout food for muscle recovery.
• Winter Vegetables: A variety of vegetables like onion, carrots, celery, and seasonal vegetables like zucchini, yellow squash, bell pepper, sweet potato, and butternut squash provide a spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.
• Kale: High in vitamins K, A, and C, kale is a nutrient-dense food that supports immune function and overall well-being.
• Herbs and Spices: Thyme and rosemary not only add flavor but also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.