Day 22
High-Protein Holiday Recipes For The Holiday Season
The holidays are a time for gathering, celebration, and, let’s face it—lots of food. But as a bariatric patient, you may feel overwhelmed by traditional holiday dishes that don’t align with your health goals. The good news? You can enjoy festive meals that are delicious, satisfying, and bariatric-friendly! By focusing on high-protein, low-carb recipes, you can stay on track while still indulging in the flavors of the season. Below, you’ll find a collection of winter holiday recipes designed to keep you feeling great—body and mind—throughout the celebrations.
Here are some healthy, high-protein winter holiday dinner recipes perfect for bariatric patients. These dishes focus on low-carb ingredients, lean protein, and festive flavors while keeping portion sizes and bariatric-friendly modifications in mind:
1. Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless turkey breast (2-3 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix olive oil, garlic, and herbs in a small bowl.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the turkey breast and season with salt and pepper.
- Roast for 50–60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Why it’s great: Turkey is a lean protein packed with nutrients, and the herb crust adds flavor without extra carbs.
2. Garlic Parmesan Crusted Salmon
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets (4-6 oz each)
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Mix Greek yogurt, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork.
Why it’s great: High in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, this dish is flavorful, satisfying, and bariatric-friendly.
3. Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms
- 1 lb lean ground turkey or chicken
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Remove the stems from the mushrooms and scoop out the gills.
- Cook ground turkey in a skillet until browned; season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in ricotta cheese and spoon the mixture into the mushrooms.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Why it’s great: A low-carb, high-protein alternative to traditional stuffed dishes.
4. Cauliflower Mash with Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cauliflower
- 2 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
- 4 grilled chicken breasts (4-6 oz each)
Instructions:
- Steam or boil cauliflower until tender, then drain.
- Blend with almond milk, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken breast for a hearty, high-protein meal.
Why it’s great: A comforting, low-carb twist on mashed potatoes paired with lean protein.
5. Festive Protein-Packed Eggnog Dessert
Ingredients:
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sugar-free vanilla syrup
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.
- Sprinkle with additional nutmeg for garnish.
Why it’s great: This festive dessert offers a holiday flavor while keeping you on track with your protein goals.
Sticking to your bariatric goals during the holidays doesn’t mean sacrificing enjoyment. With these high-protein, low-carb recipes, you can savor the season while prioritizing your health and wellness. Whether it’s a perfectly roasted turkey breast or a decadent yet guilt-free protein eggnog dessert, these dishes let you fully embrace the holiday spirit.
Want more support to stay on track?
Join us inside Banana Bariatrics for just $1! As a member, you’ll gain access to exclusive recipes, meal-planning tips, and a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of the bariatric journey—especially during the holidays. Don’t wait—start your $1 trial today and make this season one of joy, connection, and progress. Let’s keep moving forward together into a strong and successful 2025! 🌟
Back to the Countdown Calendar
Having fun? Share the Countdown Calendar with friends, family, colleagues, and/or social media groups you’re in!