New Delhi: The Christmas and New Year season is here, and with it comes a whirlwind of celebrations and party spreads. While it’s tempting to fill your plate with all the tasty options on display, smart snacking can help you enjoy the festivities without compromising your well-being. This guide offers innovative and healthy appetizer ideas that will impress your family and keep your holiday menu fresh, flavorful, and nourishing.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Ridhima Khamesra, Clinical Dietician, listed some of the best, healthiest snacks that can be relished this Christmas.
Healthy Chaat Platters
Chaats are a quintessential part of snacking, and you can make them healthy without losing their tangy, spicy appeal. Try:
Sprouted Moong Chaat: Toss sprouted moong beans with chopped onions, tomatoes, green chilies, and a squeeze of lime. Top with coriander leaves and a dash of chaat masala.
Baked Papdi Chaat: Use whole-wheat papdi baked instead of fried. Layer with yogurt, tamarind chutney, mint chutney, and boiled chickpeas.
Fruit Chaat: Mix seasonal fruits like oranges, pomegranate, and guava with a sprinkle of black salt and roasted cumin powder.
Why it works: These chaats are high in fiber, protein, and antioxidants, making them a flavorful yet health-conscious choice.
Mini Idli Innovations
Idlis are a beloved South Indian snack that can be transformed into creative appetizers:
Masala Idli Skewers: Toss bite-sized idlis in a spice mix of curry leaves, mustard seeds, and chili powder.
Idli Chaat: Use mini idlis as a base, topping them with yogurt, chutneys, and a sprinkle of sev for a unique twist.
Stuffed Idlis: Fill idli batter with spiced vegetable stuffing like grated carrots and peas before steaming.
Why it works: Idlis are light, steamed, and naturally gluten-free, making them a versatile base for healthy snacks.
Stuffed and Baked Indian Snacks
Classic Indian fried snacks can be reinvented as baked versions without sacrificing taste:
Baked Samosas: Use whole-wheat dough and bake samosas stuffed with a filling of boiled potatoes, peas, and mild spices.
Stuffed Paneer Tikkis: Combine grated paneer with mashed sweet potatoes, shape into tikkis, and bake or shallow fry. Add a mint chutney dip for extra flavor.
Multigrain Mathris: Prepare mathris with multigrain flour and bake them until crisp. Pair with a side of tangy pickle.
Why it works: Baking instead of frying cuts down on unhealthy fats while retaining the essence of these beloved snacks.
Creative Uses of Millet
Millets are a powerhouse of nutrition and can be used to create innovative appetizers:
Ragi Dhokla: Prepare soft and fluffy dhoklas using ragi flour for a gluten-free option. Serve with a spicy green chutney.
Foxtail Millet Cutlets: Combine cooked foxtail millet with grated vegetables, shape into cutlets, and bake until golden brown.
Bajra Puffs: Use bajra flour to make small puffed balls seasoned with cumin and black pepper. These make for a crunchy, high-fiber snack.
Why it works: Millets are rich in fibre, iron, and essential amino acids, making these snacks both hearty and nutritious.
DIY Appetizer Stations
Interactive food stations are always a hit at parties. Give them an Indian touch:
Dosa Roll-Ups: Provide mini dosas and a variety of fillings like paneer bhurji, spiced potato, and coconut chutney.
Pani Puri Bar: Set up a DIY station with baked puris, flavored pani options (mint, tamarind, and jeera), and fillings like sprouts or boiled potatoes.
Khakra Nachos: Use khakras as a base, topped with a mix of beans, yogurt, and chutneys for a healthy twist on nachos.
Why it works: Interactive stations allow you to customize your snacks while enjoying traditional Indian flavours.
Final Thoughts
Healthy snacking during Christmas and New Year parties doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or fun. By incorporating vibrant seasonal ingredients, downsizing portions, and experimenting with flavors, you can create a memorable spread that delights your family. Let your appetizer table be the highlight of the season—filled with guilt-free, delectable bites that keep the festive spirit alive!
Healthy snacking during Christmas and New Year parties doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or fun. By incorporating vibrant seasonal ingredients, downsizing portions, and experimenting with flavours, you can create a memorable spread that delights your family. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
