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Call it the placebo effect, but there’s something about eating green foods that makes us feel like wellness incarnate. The color naturally suggests health—which may be why, as we’re in the midst of a holiday season jam-packed with slow-cooker comfort foods and a truly dazzling array of sweet treats, we find ourselves drawn to meals in the hue this time of year. And while you might read green and think we’re about to hand you a bunch of sad kale salads, the good news is that these recipes run the gamut from cheesy pizzas to warm soups. Keep these in your back pocket for when you’re craving a light, healthy-ish bite. 

Ginger Miso Soup With Green Tea Soba Noodles

Easy to whip up and ideal for those chilly nights where you just want to curl up with a big bowl of soup, this dish from The Delicious Life really hits the spot. Make a batch of soft-boiled eggs ahead of time and keep them in the fridge to cut down on the prep even more. 

Turkish Eggs and Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

Ya know those mornings where you just can’t bear the idea of a smoothie and need something more filling? That’s where Half Baked Harvest comes in. This savory grain bowl is loaded with protein and packed with flavor thanks to the spicy sesame sauce. 

Matcha Mochi Yogurt Pops

When you want a light dessert, Molly Yeh’s matcha Popsicles are here for you. They’ll also keep in the freezer for a couple of weeks, so you can ration them out. 

Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli Salad

We know we said no sad salads—and this recipe from Half Baked Harvest is anything but. It’s incredibly colorful in addition to being nutritious, making it a real visual treat. How often can you say that about a salad? 

The Verdant Garden Cocktail

All right, this one may not be healthy per se…but if you’re looking to switch up your usual bevvie of choice, consider this vodka (or gin works, too) tipple from Feasting at Home. It’s guaranteed to impress your guests, even if you don’t have edible violets on hand for garnish. 

Garden Greens Goddess Pizza

File this one under “movie night essentials.” Half Baked Harvest has the right idea with a vegetarian pizza piled high with two kinds of cheese, basil pesto, and a healthy (pun intended) serving of leafy greens. 

Green Tomato Soup 

Similar to creamy tomato soup (if not a bit more tart), this concoction by With Food and Love is best served with a gooey grilled cheese. We recommend making a big batch on a Sunday so you can take leftovers to work for lunch throughout the week. 

Creamy Green Shakshuka

The next time it’s your turn to host brunch, resist the temptation to serve up avocado toast and go for this Israeli dish instead. Pinch of Yum’s take also includes rice to make it a heartier meal. 

Green Banana Crepes 

Between the whipped Greek yogurt topping and emerald crepe color, Half Baked Harvest’s recipe is definitely eye-catching. It’s a great substitute for pancakes, and, dare we say, it’s way more photogenic. 

See more recipes we love: 10 Fancy Christmas Desserts That Any Level of Home Cook Can Master Hear Us Out: The Best Holiday Brunch Dish Is Quiche You Don’t Need a Passport to Eat Like You’re on Vacation Every Morning