These 10 Healthy Peppermint Recipes Are Perfect for the Holidays
Peppermint photo by LabyrinthX via Flickr/Creative Commons
Goodbye pumpkin spice, hello peppermint.
Nothing says winter better than this little green herb. Lucky for us, it’s healthy and festive—fresh peppermint is full of stomach-soothing menthol and nutrients, like vitamin C and manganese, that can help ward off colds.
Take advantage of peppermint season with these 10 healthy mint-infused recipes:
1. Minted Sugar Snap Peas
via Epicurious
This non-traditional option is a side dish that can be prepared in a pinch: All it takes is three ingredients and a mixing bowl.
2. Tomato Toast with Sardines and Mint
via Eating Well
Since they’re both packed with healthy fatty acids and vitamins, sardines and mint make a winning combination. Arrange them on whole-grain baguette slices for an artful holiday appetizer.
3. Minty Green Smoothie
via All-Smoothie Recipes
Let this simple drink be a healthy alternative to peppermint mochas. For an even more balanced smoothie, add in low-sugar chocolate protein powder, fresh herbs, and raspberries. Go easy on the ice—it’s cold enough outside.
4. Paleo Coconut and Avocado Grasshopper Bars
via Whole New Mom
This vegan and paleo recipe is the perfect stocking stuffer for any health-conscious foodies (or avocado lovers) on your list. Or, just use them to distract yourself from ubiquitous holiday treats.
5. Rolled Chicken Breasts with Almond-Mint Pesto
via Martha Stewart
For a modern addition to this year’s holiday dinner, try these simple-to-make mint chicken rolls. Their spiral shape may seem intimidating, but they only need a few toothpicks to stay put.
6. Cranberry Bean Salad with Basil, Mint, and Feta
via The Kitchn
Mint and basil make excellent complements to these colorful winter legumes’ earthy sweetness. The addition of feta, red wine vinegar, and olive oil make this a great healthy-but-tasty dish.
7. Vegan Peppermint Chocolate Chip Shake
via Pop Sugar
Yes, a shake really can be good for you. The main ingredients in this frozen treat are medjool dates, light coconut milk, and spinach, enhanced by a subtle minty flavor. Don’t knock it ’til you try it.
8. Quinoa Tabouli with Parsley and Mint
via Elizabeth Rider
This fresh, Mediterranean-inspired salad is a nutritional powerhouse. Quinoa, tomatoes, onions, and healthy greens combine to make a great, portable meal to bring to the office or a potluck.
9. Gluten-Free Peppermint Patty Oatmeal
via Athletic Avocado
Get a belly-warming start to cold, wintry mornings with this sweet take on oatmeal. It only takes about five minutes to make, but the oats’ fiber will keep you full throughout your day.
10. Chilled Mint Zucchini Soup
via Yummly
The stovetop does most of the work for you in this simple soup recipe—just sit back and wait for it to heat up, then serve it hot or chill it overnight. Sub in whole-wheat bread for a more virtuous crouton crunch.
