Not your typical holiday round up

It’s no secret that I’m madly, deeply in love with food and I come by it honestly: I joke all the time that I learned about cooking in the cradle because my mom used to keep my baby bouncer on the kitchen counter as she cooked. In my family, food is a way of expressing love. And while I do love the food itself during the holidays, especially stuffing (my favorite), for me the holidays are really about love.

So yes, enjoy (and chew!) every bite of your holiday meal and let your belly and body be filled with love, but also show yourself some love by taking a break – clear a little time for yourself to breathe, move your body, and come back to you during this time off.

And since we’re eating so much this time of year, today I’m sharing a few recipes that will give our bellies a break in between big meals.

Quick Pickled Red Cabbage Salad – Cabbage contains insoluble fiber which helps move your digestive system along, and apple cider vinegar has been shown to lower blood sugar (help balance your system after that second slice of pumpkin pie). This dish is great on its own or served with a side of seared tempeh or fish (a lighter protein source is a nice break from all the turkey!).

Bone Broth Egg Drop Soup – You guys have heard me rave about the benefits of bone broth before! This soup is so easy and is great for a breakfast (a nice break from sweet stuff!), lunch, or dinner! I love having it when I need something satisfying, grounding and simple.

Spiced Apple Water – A little bit of sweet, a little bit of spice, this water will have you happily hydrating all day long. Not only does this water taste great, it packs some serious health benefits: Ginger promotes great digestion and cinnamon and cayenne rev your metabolism while curbing sugar cravings. It would also be lovely to make in a pitcher and serve with any holiday meal.