As we close the chapter on the 2023 year, what better way to transition into 2024 than with a fun and festive celebration that supports our commitment to good health? Offering a tasty alternative to traditional holiday recipes, we’re sharing healthy New Year’s Eve recipes that are just as delicious as they are nutritious. Designed to add a burst of flavor to the festivities without compromising your goals, these tasty dishes will make you feel like you’re still indulging in holiday deliciousness without guilt. From seasonal mocktails to appetizers and desserts, we’ve got something for everyone to enjoy.
Festive Non-Alcoholic New Year’s Eve Drinks
Berry & Cacao Water Spritzer
Crafted with a cacao water base, an antioxidant-rich beverage that is expected to be a top-trending food in 2024, this mocktail offers a unique pop of flavor. While cacao nibs and cacao powder have long held the spotlight as superfoods, cacao water offers a wealth of health benefits too! A perfect booze-free bubbly beverage to sip into 2024.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cacao water (or sub coconut water)
- ½ cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2-3 tsp raw honey
- Ice, to serve
- Sparkling water, to serve
- Fresh mint, to garnish
Directions:
Step #1: In a high-speed blender, combine the mixed berries, lemon juice, cacao water, and sweetener of choice. Blend until smooth and pureed.
Step #2: Pour mixture over ice, topping it off with sparkling water or seltzer to serve (option to use kombucha).
Step #3: Garnish with fresh mint leaves, berries, or lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Creamy Orange & Olive Oil Mocktail
Rich in polyphenol antioxidants that have been found to support weight loss, improve blood sugar, and benefit heart health, olive oil is the perfect creamy and nutrient-dense addition to this festive drink. Paired with the zesty flavors of orange and lemon, this Orange & Olive Oil Mocktail will have you toasting to good health.
Serves: 1-2
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe orange, peeled and roughly chopped
- 1 ripe lemon, peeled and roughly chopped
- ¼ cup coconut milk (or non-dairy milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp raw honey (adjust to taste)
- Ice, to serve
- Orange and lemon zest, to serve, optional
- Fresh rosemary sprig, to garnish, optional
Directions:
Step #1: Wash and peel the orange and lemon, then roughly chop the fruit. Option to zest the peels and set aside for garnish.
Step #2: Add the fruit to a high-speed blender along with the coconut milk, olive oil, and raw honey. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Step #3: Fill a large glass with ice and pour the mocktail mixture over, option to strain first. Serve with optional citrus zest and a fresh rosemary sprig. Enjoy!
Non-Alcoholic Warm Winter Sangria
This seasonal sangria is not only alcohol-free, but it’s also low in sugar and bursting with fresh flavor from antioxidant-rich fruits and spices. Made with unsweetened cranberry and pomegranate juice, fresh citrus, and spicy cinnamon and clove, it’s a festive and cozy recipe that’s easy to double or triple as needed for all your guests to enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 cups unsweetened pomegranate juice
- 2 cups unsweetened cranberry juice
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 pear, thinly sliced
- ½ cup fresh cranberries
- 1-2 cinnamon sticks
- 4-5 whole cloves
- 1-2 tablespoons raw honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
- Thinly sliced orange, for garnish
- Fresh pomegranate seeds, to serve, optional
Directions:
Step #1: In a large pot, combine the unsweetened pomegranate juice and cranberry juice. Add the orange, lemon, pears, cinnamon sticks, and whole cloves to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step #2: Heat over medium heat until it’s just about to simmer, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste test, stirring in additional sweetener as desired.
Step #3: Remove from the heat and serve warm in mugs. Option to garnish with fresh fruit or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Easy-Prep Apps & Snacks
Festive Baked Brie
This simple, yet flavorful appetizer is a holiday delight! Serve with crostini, a baguette, or your favorite crackers.
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounce) Brie wheel
- ⅓ cup whole berry cranberry sauce (such as the Whole Foods brand)
- ¼ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup pistachios
- Fresh rosemary, to serve
- Fresh thyme, to serve
- Raw honey, to drizzle
- Extra virgin olive oil, to drizzle
- To serve: Crostini, crackers, Sliced baguette
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F.
Step #2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #3: Next, place the Brie wheel on the parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until the middle is soft and starts to ooze.
Step #4: Remove the Brie from the oven and top with the cranberry sauce, slivered almonds, pistachios, freshly rosemary, thyme, and a drizzle of raw honey and olive oil.
Step #5: Serve with crostini, crackers, or a sliced baguette.
Balsamic Hot Honey Ricotta Dip
Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy and spicy with this ricotta hot honey dip. Ideal for drizzling over crostini or dipping fresh vegetables, this dip is versatile and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 15 oz container of whole milk ricotta cheese
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- ½ tsp sea salt
- 2 tbsp hot honey (such as Mike’s Hot Honey)
- Balsamic vinegar for drizzling
- Extra hot honey for drizzling
- Fresh thyme for serving
- Chili flakes, for serving
- Crostini for serving
Directions:
Step #1: Start by adding the ricotta cheese with the 3 tbsp of olive oil, chopped garlic, and sea salt to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until combined.
Step #2: Transfer the ricotta cheese to a serving bowl and add the 2 tbsp of hot honey. Stir well to combine.
Step #3: Top with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, extra hot honey, fresh thyme, and chili flakes.
Step #4: Serve with crostini.
Spicy Roasted Nuts & Seeds
Roasted mixed nuts and seeds are a fan-favorite holiday party snack, especially when they’re healthy, homemade, and full of flavor. Not only are they packed with healthy fats and protein, but they’re also made with a spicy kick, a forecasted food trend in the 2024 year. Roast up your nuts and seeds of choice and adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw almonds
- ½ cup raw walnuts
- ½ cup raw pecans
- ½ cup raw pumpkin seeds
- ½ cup raw sunflower seeds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup, optional
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #2: Meanwhile, combine nuts and seeds in a large bowl.
Step #3: In a separate small bowl, mix the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, cayenne, garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Add the olive oil and optional maple syrup and mix well.
Step #4: Pour the seasoning mixture over the raw nuts and seeds. Toss well to combine until fully coated. Once coated, add the nuts to the baking sheet and spread evenly in a single layer.
Step #5: Roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let cool.
Step #6: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!
Mini Crustless Quiche Muffins
These bite-sized egg muffin cups are a healthy alternative to holiday quiche, which are normally made with pie crust, heavy cream, and fatty cuts of meat. However, rest assured these lightened-up alternatives are one of the healthiest New Year’s Eve recipes on the menu! Not only are they dairy and gluten-free, but they’re also full of protein and veggies. Customize as desired and double or triple the recipe as needed.
Ingredients:
- 6 large eggs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup onion, finely diced
- ½ cup mixed bell pepper, finely diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp nutritional yeast (or ¼ cup shredded mozzarella, parmesan, or cheddar cheese)
- Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
Step #1: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a muffin or mini muffin tin with oil.
Step #2: Prep the egg mixture. Add the eggs, almond milk, and garlic powder to a large mixing bowl and whisk well. Then add the onion, bell pepper, spinach, cherry tomatoes, and optional nutritional yeast or dairy cheese.
Step #3: Pour the egg mixture into the muffin tins, filling halfway.
Step #4: Bake for 20-25 minutes (or until the muffins are set and cooked through). Enjoy!
Greek Yogurt Tzatziki
This Mediterranean-inspired dip is packed with protein and serves as a better-for-you alternative to calorie-laden sides like Spinach & Artichoke dip. Made with five main ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and will be loved by all. Serve with sliced raw veggies, gluten-free chips, or warmed-up pita.
Ingredients:
- 1¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cucumber, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Sea salt & black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, to serve
- Gluten-free pita, to serve
- Sugar snap peas, to serve
- Baby carrots, to serve
- Celery sticks, to serve
Directions:
Step #1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, dill, cucumber, garlic, salt, pepper, and Greek yogurt. Stir well to combine, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to marinate.
Step #2: Serve with a drizzle of olive oil, baby carrots, sugar snap peas, celery, toasted whole wheat pita bread, and any other ingredients of choice.
Pomegranate Salsa
This festive sweet, and spicy salsa dish is an antioxidant-packed alternative to traditional tomato salsa. It’s low in sugar, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, and tastes delicious paired with roasted veggies, crackers, or avocado.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pomegranate arils
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 1 tbsp raw honey or maple syrup
- 1-2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
Directions:
Step #1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pomegranate, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeno.
Step #2: In a separate small bowl, mix the remaining ingredients. Whisk to combine into a dressing, then pour over the salsa mixture. Toss to coat, until evenly combined. Chill in the fridge until ready to serve, or for at least an hour.
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Healthy New Year’s Desserts
Celebratory Chocolate Lava Cake
This chocolate lava cake is the perfect treat for when you need a dessert for a celebration but only need a small serving.
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp coconut oil
- 6 tbsp dark chocolate chips (such as Enjoy Life brand)
- 2 tbsp. all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 2 eggs
- 3 tbsp coconut sugar
- ½ tsp. Pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of ground cinnamon
- Pinch of sea salt
- Coconut whipped cream for serving
Directions:
Step #1: Start by preheating the oven to 425 degrees F and using an olive oil or avocado oil-based cooking spray, spray the bottom of 2 (4-inch) ramekin dishes.
Step #2: Next, add the coconut oil and dark chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 15-20 second increments, stirring in between until melted. Set aside.
Step #3: In a separate mixing bowl, add the eggs, coconut sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine.
Step #4: Add the melted chocolate mixture and stir until combined.
Step #5: Add the gluten-free flour and stir until smooth.
Step #6: Pour the mixture evenly into the greased ramekin dishes.
Step #7: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are set — note that the center will still be gooey.
Step #8: Allow the cake to cool for 2-3 minutes before removing from the ramekin dishes. To remove, flip them over onto a plate.
Step #9: Serve with a dollop of coconut whipped cream if desired.
Red Velvet Cupcake Parfait
A healthier take on red velvet cake! This recipe makes 10-12 parfaits, so it’s great for a gathering. Or, if you only want to make 1-2 parfaits, you can freeze the leftover red velvet cubes for later use.
Serves: 12
Ingredients:
- 1 box of Simple Mills chocolate muffin & cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
- ⅔ cup water
- 1 tbsp. vanilla extract
- 2 tsp natural, plant-based red food coloring
- 1 14-ounce can coconut cream
- 1 tbsp coconut sugar
- 1 tsp tapioca flour
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Chopped pecans for serving
Directions:
Step #1: Chill the coconut cream in the fridge the night before you make the recipe. When ready, chill a freezer-safe bowl in the freezer for 15 minutes. Add the coconut cream to the chilled bowl and beat with a hand-held mixer for about 20 seconds. Then, add the coconut sugar, tapioca flour, and 1 tsp. vanilla extract. Whip for another minute and place in the fridge while you make the red velvet cake.
Step #2: Next, bake the Simple Mills cake mix according to the package directions, mixing in the 2 tsp of red food coloring to the batter before baking.
Step #3: Cool the cake, and then cut the cake into cubes.
Step #4: Add ½ cup of cubed red velvet cake to the bottom of a glass jar and top with whipped coconut cream. Continue to layer and then top with chopped pecans.
Step #5: This recipe should make 10-12 parfaits, so it works great for a gathering. But, if you only want to make 1-2 parfaits, freeze the leftover red velvet cubes for later use!
Step #6: Enjoy!
Whipped Cottage Cheese & Berries
Skip the whipped cream and berries — this high-protein dessert is the perfect healthy holiday alternative! It’s made with a protein-rich cottage cheese base and topped with low-sugar berries that are bursting with antioxidants. Naturally sweetened with a touch of honey, these single-serve dessert cups will have you entering 2024 feeling better than ever.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tsp raw honey or maple syrup
- Fresh berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
Directions:
Step #1: Combine the cottage cheese, vanilla extract, and sweetener in a high-speed blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test, adjusting as desired.
Step #2: Chill in the fridge until cool and firm. Transfer to a serving dish or cup and top with fresh berries and any additional toppings or add-ins of choice!
Holiday Date Bark
Date bark is a trending dessert sensation that’s going viral (with more than 3 million views) for tasting like a healthy Snickers bar. Not only is it much more nutritious, but it’s simple to make and requires just a few wholesome ingredients. For a festive twist, we added chopped pistachios and unsweetened cranberries. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s taking the internet by storm!
Ingredients:
- 20-24 Medjool dates, pitted (about 2 cups)
- ½ – ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (or nut butter of choice)
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- ½ cup unsweetened dried cranberries (or goji berries)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips (option for dairy-free)
- 1-2 tsp coconut oil
- Flakey sea salt, to garnish
- ½ cup almonds, chopped (optional)
Directions:
Step #1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step #2: Open medjool dates lengthwise, and remove the pit. Press the dates into the parchment paper in an even line, placing the open side down. The dates should be close together and touching each other, covering all surface areas of the tray. Once finished, it should look like the dates are forming a single bottom layer.
Step #3: Pour the peanut butter (or nut butter of choice) over the top of the dates and evenly spread over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios, unsweetened dried cranberries, and a pinch of flakey sea salt for a festive twist. Option to add any other toppings, such as chopped almonds.
Step #4: Meanwhile, add chocolate chips and coconut oil to a bowl and microwave until melted, heating in 30-second increments at a time. Once melted, pour over the top and spread until evenly coated. Transfer to the fridge or freezer and chill until firm.
Step #5: To serve, break off into pieces. Enjoy!
No-Bake Peppermint Chocolate Bites
Peppermint + chocolate = the ultimate holiday dessert combo. The best part? You get all the flavor, without the guilt. These peppermint and chocolate bites are simply made with wholesome ingredients like dates, cacao, nuts, and a splash of mint. Aside from tasting delicious, they’re full of fiber, antioxidants, and healthy fats!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup raw cashews or walnuts
- 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 12-14), soaked and drained
- 3-4 tbsp unsweetened cocoa or cacao powder
- 1 tbsp maple syrup, optional
- 2 tbsp water or almond milk, as needed to blend
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- ¼ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup cacao nibs or mini chocolate chips, optional
Step #1: Add the cashews or walnuts to a food processor or high-speed blender along with the cacao. Blend for 20-30 seconds, then add the dates, maple syrup, and liquid of choice. Pulse for another few seconds.
Step #2: Add the remaining ingredients and process again until the mixture comes together. Taste test, adjusting ingredients as needed.
Step #3: Transfer to a bowl and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
Step #4: Once chilled, roll into bite-size balls and store in an airtight container in the fridge until ready to serve. Enjoy!
The Tastiest Ways to Cheers to 2024
No matter your cravings — whether it’s superfood mocktails, savory apps, or festive desserts — we’ve got something for you. With protein-packed options like whipped cottage cheese and bite-sized quiche to trending antioxidant-rich mocktails and date bark, satisfy all your nutritional needs and taste cravings without compromising your New Year’s health goals. With these yummy recipes, here’s to your healthiest year yet!
