

The holidays are coming. Wait, they’re here… That happened fast. This year has flown by, and I would be lying if I said I’m not thinking ahead to all the upcoming holiday get-togethers and parties. Life is busy, and when we offer or are asked to bring a dish to share at the next festivity, it can be hard to think up a memorable and tasty option. As a registered dietitian, I think it’s important to enjoy your food at all times of the year. But, of course, it’s extra fun to embrace this idea at the holidays. Read on for some of my favorite recipes that are delicious, nutritious, and bound to be a hit at your next gathering.
Roasted Sweet Potato Pear and Pomegranate Salad

I’ve made this vibrant salad a couple times, and I love it! The best part? It’s easy to prep the ingredients a day early. Along with beautiful colors, this salad is loaded with antioxidants from the spinach and pomegranates + fiber from the pears and sweet potatoes. Layer it on a platter when you arrive to your destination, and you’re sure to wow the crowd. (This one should be on your go-to list for anytime of the year!)

Ever tried flaxseed + water in place of eggs? Don’t fret. It is easy and it works! Tailored to the gluten-free and vegan crowd, this recipe offers a twist on the typical pumpkin bread. The addition of rolled oats makes it dense but also fluffy, and the sprinkle of the pepitas on top provide a bit of crunch.

This seems too pretty to eat, but I assure you it’ll be a huge hit. Whether you go all-in and create the festive shape, or just use the suggested ingredients and make a pretty board of your own, you can’t go wrong. I love appetizers like this because they allow you to try different items you may have otherwise overlooked. With so many options, this board is perfect for a crowd!
Crispy Garlic Ranch Roasted Potatoes
Running short on time? This is a great option! These potatoes only take 15 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook. Plus, you likely already have the seasonings in your pantry. If not, it would be a quick grocery trip to make an extremely delicious dish. These are perfect for holiday get togethers, but again, would also be suitable year-round!
Potentially unpopular opinion… I don’t love stuffing. I
typically pass on it at any occasion, and I’ve never had the desire to make it. But this is a tasty twist, and it might even make an appearance on my plate. Did you know mushrooms are the only produce item that contain Vitamin D? During the winter months, our exposure to sunshine takes a dip, so add mushrooms to your grocery list to give your body what it needs!
All of these recipes have one thing in common – celebration. Whether this time of year includes for you lots of hustle and bustle or time to slow down and soak in a fresh snowfall, we hope you’re able to do it all with the people and food you love most. What are some of your favorite holiday recipes? Feel free to share them in the comments below or tag us on social (@wearepowerlife) when you present them at your next gathering!
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2025 Power Life, All Rights Reserved.
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Kirk was working 80-hour weeks and wearing his shoulders as earrings when he found yoga in 2005. Forever the competitive athlete, he loved the physicality of yoga. When the spiritual and philosophical side of yoga were exposed to him, Kirk was hooked. Yoga provided him with what other activities couldn’t -- the ability to foster the benefits of practice both on and off of the mat. Yoga was something that Kirk could bring into all aspects of his life.
Kirk knows that yoga can be intimidating, so he crafts a class that is playful and inviting, while still being challenging and safe. His creatively planned classes build strength and flexibility in your body and mind while establishing clarity, giving you more confidence to overcome obstacles in your life, and keeping you injury-free. His classes are themed with a message that is relatable and will inspire you to take it with you off your mat. Kirk has been teaching yoga since 2008 and lead his first teacher training in 2012. Where Kirk truly shines is in coaching, developing and bringing out the best in others.
Kirk enjoys traveling (40+ countries to date!), snowboarding, and cherishes time with his wife and two daughters.
Christen Bakken’s yoga journey began in 1998 in a Bikram studio that provided a safe and secure place to practice. She saw the yoga mat as a place to remember her purpose and a place to play. As she continued her studies and began her journey to teaching in 2006, Christen infused yoga classes with devotion and the yoga mat became a place of personal transformation and healing. Her classes are filled with laughter, song, sweat, and usually heart openers. In 2013, Christen began training yoga teachers. This is the place where she finds the most joy - in community with folks looking to grow and be of greater service in their homes, on their mats, and in the world. Over the years, she has led trainings in Denver, the Midwest, Florida, and now abroad. She has trained in continuing education modules, 200-hour, 300-hour, and 500-hour programs. Beyond the mat, Christen is a passionate adventure seeker - she loves to bike, snowboard, and spend time with her husband and pups. She sees each day as a blessing and hopes to remind all who interact with her of this truth.