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).

Italian-Texan White Bean Stew

Caldo Verde (Portuguese Soup with Cauliflower)

Turmeric-Miso Soup with Shiitakes, Turnips, and Soba Noodles

Easy, Lemony Chicken & Rice Soup with Dill

Miso Charred Carrot Soup

Lentil, Tomato & Olive Baked Cod with Lemon-Caper Vinaigrette

Spicy, Braised Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Baked Tofu with Coconut Kale

Roast Pork Loin

Crispy Coconut Kale with Roasted Salmon and Coconut Rice

One-Pot Kale and Quinoa Pilaf

Miso, Ginger, and Scallion-Crusted Sweet Potatoes

Simple Weeknight Vegetarian Green Curry & Noodles

Deb Perelman’s Winter Slaw with Farro

Spaghetti Squash with Kale Pesto and Burrata

Cauliflower Salad with Pickled Grapes, Cheddar Cheese & Almonds

Kale, Cabbage, and Brussels Sprout Chopped Salad

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