Tasty and Healthy Winter Recipes

Winter is a season of indulgence and comfort, and what better way to enjoy it than with a delicious, healthy meal? As the weather gets cooler, our bodies crave warm and nourishing food that not only satisfies our hunger but also boosts our immune system.

In this article, we have curated a few tasty and healthy seasonal winter recipes that are easy to make, are packed with nutrients, and will keep you warm and satisfied throughout the chilly months ahead. 

Split Pea Soup

Packed with nutrients, split pea soup is a tasty comfort food that will keep you warm all winter long.

You'll need:

• 2 cups of dried split peas
• 1 cup of diced ham
• 1 onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery sticks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups of vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Olive oil

What to Do:

In a large pot, heat a few tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, or about 5 minutes. Then add the split peas, diced ham, vegetable broth, and dried thyme to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about an hour, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken

This delicious and filling chicken dish pairs well with mashed potato, veggies, or rice.

You'll need:

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
• 2 lemons
• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme leaves
• 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and pepper

What to do:

Preheat your oven to 425°F. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. 

Loosen the skin of the chicken by gently sliding your fingers under it. Then rub the herb mixture underneath the skin, spreading it evenly. Cut one lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken, then put the squeezed lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.

Place the chicken on a roasting pan breast-side up. Roast the chicken for about an hour and a half. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving with the side of your choice. 

Hot Apple Cider

Hot apple cider is a timeless classic that can warm you inside and out as well as strengthen your heart.

You'll need:

• 8 cups of apple cider
• 1 orange, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1 tablespoon of whole cloves
• 1 tablespoon of whole allspice berries
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional)

What to do:

Pour the apple cider into a large pot. Add the orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and whole allspice berries to the pot. If you prefer a sweeter cider, add the brown sugar to the mixture as well. Stir to combine.

Warm the cider on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s just about to boil.

Once heated, reduce the heat to low and allow the flavors to meld for at least 30 minutes. Before serving, strain the cider to remove the spices and orange slices.

Pour into cups immediately and enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade hot apple cider. 

Moorings Park Communities offers an exceptional dining experience, ranging from casual to fine dining, with Simply the Best® restaurants that feature unique menus, celebrated wine lists, and impeccable service. Our trained chefs put together seasonal menus with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. If you're interested in calling a Moorings Park community home, contact us today to schedule a personal tour.