What to Eat to Stay Grounded in Between All Those Holiday Cookies

Don’t get me wrong—I love all the rich, over-the-top dishes we whip up for holiday gatherings. From tender briskets and gooey cheese dips to sugar-dusted cookies and crispy latkes, it’s undeniably a season of joyful eating. But sometimes—and I know I’m not alone in this—too many nights of merrymaking leaves my stomach a little queasy. In those moments, I find myself craving the comfort of vegetables and other lighter fare that will fill me up but not weigh me down.

Now, everyone has their own version of a restorative meal. I turn to soups and stews, but it can be just as satisfying to make yourself fluffy pilaf, a hearty salad, or a beautiful piece of delicate fish. Below, I’ve gathered 17 recipes that make me feel a little more balanced and grounded during this spirited time. I'll have these on repeat over the coming weeks (before heading back to those cookies).

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Soul-Satisfying Soups & Stews

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The Power of Protein

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Pile on the Vegetables

Tell us your favorite dish to balance out your holiday season in the comments below!