18 Healthy Comfort Foods to Make on Chilly Days

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Vegetable Lentil Soup

A warm bowl of vegetable lentil soup is a nutritious and filling option on a chilly day. It combines lentils, carrots, celery, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices to create a hearty meal that provides plenty of fiber and protein. The combination of vegetables and lentils makes it rich in vitamins and minerals, and the spices give it a deep, satisfying flavor. This soup can be made in a large batch and stored for later, making it an ideal dish to prepare in advance.

To make this soup, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a large pot with olive oil for about 5 minutes. Add 1 cup of dried lentils, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, and your favorite herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Serve with a slice of whole-grain bread for a complete meal.

Sweet Potato Chili

Sweet potato chili offers a warm, flavorful twist on the classic chili. It uses sweet potatoes, beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices to create a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances the heat from the spices, making it a comforting meal that is perfect for chilly weather. The beans add protein and fiber, making this chili a complete and filling meal.

Peel and cube 2 large sweet potatoes, then sauté them with chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Add 1 can of black beans, 1 can of kidney beans, and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender. Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese if desired.

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower mac and cheese is a healthier alternative to the classic comfort food. By replacing traditional pasta with cauliflower, this dish offers a lower-carb, lower-calorie version while still maintaining the creamy, cheesy flavor. The cauliflower is lightly steamed and mixed with a creamy cheese sauce made from a combination of milk, cheese, and seasonings. The result is a rich, indulgent meal that will keep you warm on a cold day.

Steam 1 medium cauliflower head until tender, then blend it with 1 cup of low-fat milk, 2 tablespoons of butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Cook 2 cups of whole-wheat pasta according to package instructions. Combine the cauliflower mixture with the pasta, add salt and pepper to taste, and bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes for a crispy top.

Chicken and Rice Soup

Chicken and rice soup is a classic comfort food that is both nourishing and easy to make. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, rice, and vegetables in a savory broth. The chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the rice offers carbohydrates that give you energy throughout the day. Carrots, onions, and celery add flavor and texture, making each spoonful a cozy delight.

Cook 1 cup of rice and set aside. In a large pot, sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks. Add 4 cups of chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the cooked rice, 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken, and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Let it simmer for 10 minutes before serving.

Stuffed Acorn Squash

Stuffed acorn squash is a flavorful and visually appealing comfort food. This dish uses roasted acorn squash filled with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and nuts, making it both hearty and wholesome. The natural sweetness of the squash pairs perfectly with the savory quinoa filling, and the cranberries add a touch of tartness. The nuts provide a crunchy texture, creating a satisfying combination of flavors.

Cut 2 acorn squashes in half and remove the seeds. Roast them in the oven at 400°F for about 30-40 minutes. While they roast, cook 1 cup of quinoa and mix it with 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts, and a pinch of cinnamon. Fill the roasted squash halves with the quinoa mixture and serve.

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup is a creamy, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly weather. This soup combines roasted butternut squash with onions, garlic, and vegetable broth to create a smooth, velvety texture. The natural sweetness of the squash shines through, and the garlic and onions add savory depth. A touch of nutmeg or cinnamon can add a warming, spicy note to the soup, making it perfect for fall or winter.

Peel and cube 1 butternut squash, then roast it in the oven at 400°F for about 25 minutes. In a large pot, sauté 1 onion and 2 cloves of garlic, then add the roasted squash, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Simmer for 10 minutes and blend the soup until smooth. Serve with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream.

Turkey Chili

Turkey chili is a healthier twist on traditional chili, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. Ground turkey replaces the usual beef, and quinoa is added for an extra boost of protein and fiber. This dish combines beans, tomatoes, and a variety of spices to create a flavorful chili that is both filling and nutritious. The quinoa soaks up the flavors of the chili, adding a unique texture to the dish.

Cook 1 cup of quinoa and set aside. Brown 1 pound of ground turkey in a large pot, then add 1 chopped onion, 1 bell pepper, and 2 cloves of garlic. Stir in 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, then stir in the cooked quinoa and serve.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Tofu

A vegetable stir-fry with tofu is a delicious, plant-based comfort food that is quick to make and full of nutrients. This dish combines a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots, with tofu that is lightly pan-fried to create a satisfying texture. The stir-fry sauce, made from soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, brings the dish together with a savory, slightly sweet flavor.

Cube 1 block of tofu and sauté it in a pan with olive oil until golden brown. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, stir-fry 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers) with garlic and soy sauce. Add the tofu back to the pan, toss everything together, and serve over brown rice.

Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie

Vegetable shepherd’s pie is a healthier, vegetarian alternative to the traditional meat-based version. This dish features roasted root vegetables, such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, combined with peas and a savory herb sauce. The vegetables are topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. This comforting dish offers all the flavors of shepherd’s pie without the meat, making it a perfect option for those seeking a plant-based comfort food.

Roast 3 cups of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and parsnips) in the oven at 400°F for 25 minutes. While the vegetables cook, mash 4 boiled potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. In a baking dish, layer the roasted vegetables, then spread the mashed potatoes on top. Bake for 15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna

Spinach and mushroom lasagna is a comforting yet healthy version of the classic Italian dish. It layers whole wheat lasagna noodles with a mix of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta cheese, creating a dish that is both flavorful and packed with nutrients. The spinach adds a rich source of iron, while the mushrooms contribute to a savory depth of flavor. Tomato sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese complete the layers for a warm, satisfying meal.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Sauté 2 cups of sliced mushrooms and 2 cups of spinach until tender. Layer whole wheat lasagna noodles, the mushroom-spinach mixture, 1 cup of ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Repeat the layers and bake for 30-40 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden

Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto offer a healthy twist on pasta dishes. The zucchini noodles are made using a spiralizer, providing a low-carb, nutrient-packed base that replaces traditional pasta. The pesto is made from fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that complements the zucchini perfectly. This dish is light yet filling, making it an ideal comfort food for a chilly evening.

Use a spiralizer to turn 2 zucchinis into noodles. In a food processor, blend 1 cup of fresh basil, 1/4 cup of pine nuts, 2 cloves of garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to make the pesto. Toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto, then serve immediately. You can also add cherry tomatoes or grilled chicken for extra flavor.

Cabbage and Sausage Stew

Cabbage and sausage stew is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly weather. It combines savory sausage with tender cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, creating a filling stew that warms you from the inside out. The sausage adds flavor and protein, while the cabbage is rich in fiber and antioxidants. The broth is seasoned with herbs, creating a savory base that brings all the ingredients together.

Brown 1 pound of sausage in a large pot, then add 1 chopped onion, 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks. Stir in 1 chopped head of cabbage, 4 cups of vegetable broth, and 2 potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, then simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Chickpea and Spinach Curry

Chickpea and spinach curry is a flavorful, plant-based dish that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. This curry combines chickpeas, spinach, onions, and tomatoes in a fragrant blend of spices, such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander. The chickpeas provide a great source of plant-based protein, while the spinach adds vitamins and minerals. The dish is simmered in a coconut milk base, creating a rich and creamy texture that makes the curry extra comforting.

In a large pot, sauté 1 onion, 2 cloves of garlic, and 1 tablespoon of ginger in olive oil until fragrant. Add 2 cups of cooked chickpeas, 1 can of diced tomatoes, 1 can of coconut milk, and 1 teaspoon each of turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Simmer for 20 minutes, then stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Serve over rice for a satisfying meal.

Quinoa-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Quinoa-stuffed bell peppers are a healthy, colorful meal that is packed with nutrients. The bell peppers are hollowed out and stuffed with a mixture of quinoa, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. This combination of ingredients offers a balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The stuffed peppers are baked until the peppers are tender, making them the perfect comforting dish for chilly days.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut 4 bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Cook 1 cup of quinoa and mix it with 1 can of black beans, 1 cup of corn, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/2 cup of diced tomatoes. Stuff the bell peppers with the quinoa mixture, place them in a baking dish, and bake for 25 minutes. Serve with a drizzle of sour cream or cheese if desired.

Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a healthy take on the classic Italian dish that replaces traditional breaded chicken with tender eggplant slices. The eggplant is lightly breaded and baked, then layered with marinara sauce and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The dish is baked until golden and bubbly, offering all the flavors of the original but in a much lighter version. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly day.

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Slice 2 medium eggplants into rounds and lightly bread them by dipping in egg and then breadcrumbs. Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Layer the eggplant with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken

Lemon garlic roasted chicken is a flavorful and simple dish that is perfect for chilly evenings. The chicken is seasoned with garlic, lemon, and herbs, then roasted until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The lemon adds a zesty brightness that balances the savory flavors, while the garlic provides a rich, aromatic base. This dish is easy to prepare and makes for a comforting meal that is full of flavor.

Preheat the oven to 425°F. Rub 1 whole chicken with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and chopped rosemary. Roast in the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables or a side salad.

Spaghetti Squash with Marinara Sauce

Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce offers a light and healthy alternative to traditional pasta dishes. The spaghetti squash is roasted until tender, then scraped with a fork to create strands that resemble pasta. It is topped with a homemade or store-bought marinara sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This dish is a great way to enjoy the flavors of pasta without the extra calories and carbs.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Cut 1 spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Roast the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet for 40 minutes. After roasting, scrape the squash with a fork to create strands, then top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for a delicious and light meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for a chilly day. The Brussels sprouts are roasted until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, then drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, making them a delicious and healthy side dish.

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Trim the ends off 2 cups of Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 20-25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.