Healthy Holiday Recipes: Fuel Your Workouts and Enjoy the Season Guilt-Free

Written By: Kaylie Gragnano

The holidays are a time for celebration, joy, and indulgence, but that doesn’t mean your fitness goals have to take a backseat. With a little creativity, you can enjoy the festive flavors of the season while staying on track. Below are a few protein-packed and clean-eating holiday recipes that will fuel your workouts and let you savor the holidays guilt-free.

Protein Gingerbread Pancakes

These fluffy pancakes are packed with protein and the warm spices of gingerbread—perfect for a cozy post-workout breakfast or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop vanilla or unflavored protein powder

• 1/2 cup oat flour (or blended oats)

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground ginger

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp cloves

• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 1 egg (or flax egg for a vegan option)

• 1 tbsp molasses

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the dry ingredients (protein powder, oat flour, baking powder, and spices).

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients (almond milk, egg, molasses, maple syrup, and vanilla).

3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth.

4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.

5. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

   
   

Post-Workout Peppermint Smoothie

This refreshing smoothie is festive, hydrating, and loaded with nutrients to help your muscles recover after a high-intensity workout.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop chocolate or vanilla protein powder

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 1/2 frozen banana

• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract (a little goes a long way!)

• 1 tbsp cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips

• 1 handful of spinach (optional, for added nutrients)

• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth.

2. Top with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candy or cacao nibs for a festive touch.

3. Enjoy immediately!

   
   

Holiday Spiced Energy Bites

These no-bake bites are perfect for a quick pre-workout snack or a healthy holiday treat on the go.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/2 cup almond butter (or any nut butter)

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries

• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.

2. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet.

3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Winter Harvest Salad with Citrus Dressing

Packed with seasonal ingredients, this nutrient-dense salad makes a great post-workout meal or a festive addition to any holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, kale, or arugula)

• 1/2 cup roasted sweet potatoes

• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

• 1/4 cup toasted walnuts

• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)

• 1 grilled chicken breast or baked tofu (for added protein)

Citrus Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh orange juice

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 tsp honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Assemble the salad ingredients in a large bowl.

2. Whisk together the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.

3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.

4. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Peppermint Protein Bars

These homemade protein bars are a healthier alternative to store-bought treats and will keep you energized all season long.

Ingredients:

• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder

• 1 cup rolled oats

• 1/4 cup almond butter

• 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder

• 1/4 tsp peppermint extract

• 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (optional)

• Crushed peppermint candy (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until a dough-like consistency forms.

2. Press the mixture into a parchment-lined baking dish.

3. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours until firm, then cut into bars.

4. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

The holidays don’t have to mean sacrificing your fitness goals. With these recipes, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: festive flavors and fuel for your workouts. Try these ideas and share your favorites with us over on Instagram! We love when you tag us in your stories! Happy Holidays!