THE PULSE

The holidays bring so many delicious treats, but sometimes it’s nice to have healthier options on hand that don’t skimp on flavor. These three recipes are festive, wholesome, and perfect for holiday gatherings or as a little treat just for you.  

1. Spiced Sweet Potato Hummus 

This vibrant hummus combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the warm, festive flavors of sweet potato and spices. It’s perfect as a dip or a spread for wraps and sandwiches! 

Ingredients 

• 1 medium sweet potato, roasted 
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed 
• 1/4 cup tahini 
• 1 clove garlic, minced 
• Juice of 1 lemon 
• 1 tsp ground cumin 
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
• 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional, for a bit of heat) 
• Salt and pepper to taste 
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil 
• Water as needed for consistency 

Instructions 

1. Roast the sweet potato: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the sweet potato with a fork, wrap it in foil, and bake for 40-45 minutes or until soft. 
2. In a food processor, combine the chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, and pepper. 
3. Once the sweet potato is cool, remove the skin and add it to the food processor. Blend until smooth, adding olive oil and water as needed to reach your desired consistency. 
4. Serve with pita, veggie sticks, or crackers. Enjoy this warm, spiced hummus as a healthy appetizer! 

2. Apple Pie Chia Pudding 

This chia pudding tastes like apple pie but is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and a touch of protein. It makes a great breakfast or dessert that feels indulgent without the extra sugar. 

Ingredients 

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice) 
• 2 tbsp chia seeds 
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce 
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract 
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg 
• 1/4 tsp allspice 
• 1 tsp maple syrup (optional) 
• Diced apple and chopped walnuts for topping 

Instructions 

1. In a jar or small bowl, mix the almond milk, chia seeds, applesauce, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and maple syrup (if using). 
2. Stir well to combine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a thicker consistency. 
3. Once ready to serve, give it a good stir and top with diced apple and chopped walnuts. This cozy chia pudding is perfect for a holiday-inspired breakfast or snack. 

3. Gingerbread Energy Bites 

These gingerbread bites are like little holiday cookies in a healthy, bite-sized form! They’re packed with spices, dates, and oats to give you a burst of energy and satisfy your sweet cravings. 

Ingredients 

• 1 cup rolled oats 
• 1 cup pitted dates (about 10-12), soften in hot water for 5 minutes if dry 
• 1/4 cup almond butter (or nut butter of choice) 
• 1 tbsp molasses 
• 1 tsp ground ginger 
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon 
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg 
• 1/4 tsp allspice 
• Pinch of salt 

Instructions 

1. In a food processor, pulse the oats until they form a coarse flour. 
2. Add the dates, almond butter, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Blend until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed. 
3. Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each). 
4. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Enjoy as a quick, festive snack on the go!