Holiday Flavours, Healthy Gains: Delicious Recipes to Keep You on Track

The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy delicious food, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health goals. With a few smart swaps and high-protein ingredients, you can indulge in festive flavours while keeping your nutrition on track. Here are two of our favourite holiday recipes that are perfect for Christmas gatherings, meal prep, or simply treating yourself:

Christmas Protein Vanilla Cheesecake Cups

These cheesecake cups are a sweet treat that’s high in protein, low in fat, and full of flavour—perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients (makes 6 cups):

• 1½ cups thick Greek yoghurt (high protein)
• 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
• ½ cup low-fat cream cheese (softened)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Stevia or honey to taste
• ½ cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
• Optional base: crushed high-protein biscuits or oats

Method:

1. Mix yoghurt, cream cheese, protein powder, vanilla, and sweetener until smooth.
2. Spoon optional base into the bottom of jars or cups.
3. Add cheesecake mixture on top.
4. Finish with berries.
5. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Nutrition per cup: 210 kcal | 24g protein | 10g carbs | 5g fat

These cheesecake cups are creamy, festive, and packed with protein to help you stay full and fuelled during the holiday season.

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Christmas Stuffed Peppers

If you prefer a savoury option, these stuffed peppers are hearty, protein-rich, and full of seasonal flavour.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 500 g lean turkey mince
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
• 4 large capsicums (red or green)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil spray

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Slice capsicums in half and remove seeds.
3. Lightly spray a pan with olive oil and cook onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add turkey mince and cook until browned.
5. Stir through cottage cheese, herbs, salt, and pepper.
6. Spoon mixture into capsicum halves.
7. Bake for 25–30 minutes until capsicums are tender.

Nutrition per serving: 360 kcal | 38g protein | 14g carbs | 8g fat

These stuffed peppers are satisfying, full of protein, and make a beautiful addition to any holiday table.

Why High-Protein Holiday Recipes Matter:

The festive season often brings indulgence, but it’s possible to enjoy the flavours you love while keeping your health goals in mind. High-protein recipes like these:

• Help maintain muscle mass and satiety
• Support energy levels for busy holiday schedules
• Provide balance alongside festive treats

By swapping in Greek yoghurt, protein powder, and lean meats, you can celebrate the holidays with delicious dishes that also nourish your body.