Winter recipes happen to be some of the most comforting. From warm soups to cold-weather salads, there are few things better than getting cozy and eating comfort food as the temperature outside drops. Not only are winter recipes delicious, but they also happen to be high in essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B6, C, fiber, folate, magnesium, riboflavin, and potassium, just to name a few! Here at Wake Forest Pediatrics, we understand the benefits of eating with the seasons. That’s why we have compiled a list of nutritional power-packed recipes that the whole family can enjoy!
1. Hidden Veggie Pasta Sauce — PlantYou
Do you have children who flat-out refuse to eat vegetables? If the answer is yes, then this recipe is for you! This hidden veggie pasta sauce is a wonderful way to supply your family with essential vitamins and nutrients that keep our bodies running smoothly! This recipe calls for
- 4 vine ripe tomatoes, sliced in half
- 1 zucchini, roughly chopped
- 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 1 head garlic, top sliced off
- 1 red bell pepper, roughly chopped
- 1 ½ tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ cup coconut milk, or vegan cream
Being creative in the kitchen with this hidden veggie pasta is half of the fun – especially when you get to enjoy that with your children!
2. Stuffed Peppers — Cookin’ With Mima
Winter recipes like these stuffed peppers are loaded with protein and healthy fats. These peppers boast flavorful fillings and hearty ingredients, all while being nutrient-packed.
- 8 small bell peppers
- 1 lb. ground meat 85/15 or higher
- 1 small onion petite diced
- 1 pack 90 second brown rice
- 1 cup corn
- 1 can tomatoes petite diced
- 1 cup black beans rinsed
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 2 tbsps. olive oil
- 2 cups mixed cheddar cheese shredded
Another great thing about this recipe is you can opt for whatever fillings you and your family like best! To make this recipe vegetarian, swap the ground meat for tofu or your favorite non-meat substitute.
3. Creamy Vegetable Soup — Feel Good Foodie
Winter means soup. This recipe is a warm and creamy twist that is a great staple during the cooler months. The best part? This soup is completely gluten-free and vegan.
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 2 large carrots sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 yukon potatoes diced (3-4 cups chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 3 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups peas frozen
- 2 cups corn frozen
- 2 cups plant-based milk
Because this recipe is plant-based, the consistency can be difficult to nail down. If your soup is too thick, add some more liquid; either oat milk or vegetable broth are good choices. If your soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while longer to thicken up.
4. Turkey White Bean Chili — AllRecipes
Winter recipes like this turkey white bean chili is a great spinoff on original favorites. The creaminess of this chili has a unique taste that even the pickiest of eaters will love! Check out this warm and heart turkey bean chili recipe
- 1 ½ pounds ground turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (4 ounce) cans canned green chile peppers, chopped
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ground cayenne pepper to taste
- ground white pepper to taste
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 3 (15 ounce) cans cannellini beans
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Garnish your turkey white bean chili with cheese, salsa, sour cream, or cilantro leaves, and serve with rolled tortillas on the side for extra flavor.
Take advantage of seasonal ingredients this cold season by trying out one of these winter recipes. Wake Forest Pediatrics is committed to providing our patients with quality, comprehensive care. That includes helping with issues like nutrition. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s health, call our Wake Forest office at 919-556-4779 or our Knightdale office at 919-266-5059 to make an appointment.
