5 Cheerful Holiday Recipes to Boost Energy

There are presents to be bought and wrapped. Christmas cookies to be made, parties to plan, events to attend, family to see and friends to entertain… does anyone else feel tired already?!

You might find yourself reaching for an extra cup of coffee to help get you through the “afternoon” slump this holiday season (that now starts at 11:45 am), but instead of coffee, energy drinks or soda, why not snack on festive energy boosting foods that won’t leave you feeling “bah humbug” when the energy crash hits. 

With a mix of sweet and salty and a bit of crunch, who doesn’t love trail mix? Especially when you dress it up with a festive holiday touch (in the form of freeze-dried strawberries) and get a boost of energy after you enjoy a serving or two.

Holiday Trail Mix

What you’ll need:

• 2 cups air popped popcorn

• ½ cup walnuts

• ½ cup almonds

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips

• 1 cup of freeze-dried strawberries

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients into a large mixing bowl and stir together until mixed well.

2. Store in airtight containers and portion out for snacks as desired.

If you’re looking for a few additional energy-boosting holiday recipes, we rounded up four festive recipes that are a tasty way to keep your energy (and spirits) soaring this Christmas.

Beets, pomegranate seeds, nuts, and oranges top the list of energy-boosting foods, making this salad a perfect addition to your winter salad rotation.
Winter Beet and Pomegranate Salad

Do you need another reason to snack on dark chocolate? Not only is it delicious but it is also an energy-boosting food! Dark Chocolate contains caffeine and theobromine, both of which are known for boosting energy.

When eaten in moderation, dark chocolate doesn’t lead to an energy crash. In general, the darker the chocolate, the less sugar and more energy-boosting potential each bite has.

Here is a great, easy recipe to enjoy dark chocolate, Christmas style!
Dark Chocolate Holiday Bark

Quinoa is in granola and energy bars for a reason, it packs a punch when it comes to its energy-boosting benefits. Quinoa is a complex carb that can give you a steady dose of energy throughout your day.

This salad not only looks festive with pops of cranberry and pumpkin seeds but it will also leave you feeling like you can tackle the remainder of your holiday to-do list.
Butternut Squash Cranberry Quinoa Salad

What’s red, white and green and gives you enough energy to finally wrap those holiday presents?

A yogurt parfait with kiwi and pomegranate seeds! Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and it slows your digestion down which can lead to more sustained energy throughout the day.
Yogurt Parfait with Kiwi and Pomegranate Seeds

Hopefully one of these alternative energy boosting options works for you! Now back to wrapping more presents!