As we enter the chilly month of December, it’s important to find meaningful hobbies that allow us to stay warm, cozy & happy. One way to achieve this is through the creation of delicious home-cooked meals.

Whether you’re making a comforting bowl of soup, a savory pasta dish or a gooey desert, trying out new recipes is a great way to spend a snowy day at home. Although the dishes we make in the winter tend to be rich and decadent, there are many ways to make our favorite recipes healthy and satisfying. Take a look at these nutritious and comforting vegetarian recipes, perfect for warming you up while you stay on track with your goals for the new year!

Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili (serves 4 people):

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion
1 garlic clove
1 large chopped/peeled sweet potato
Chili powder, Cumin, Paprika, Salt, pepper
1 can diced tomatoes
2 cans black beans
1 avocado (optional)
Sharp cheddar cheese

Recipe:

1)Sauté 1 diced onion in olive oil on medium low heat in a large pot until the onion is translucent in color. Add in 1 minced garlic clove and sauté for about 1 minute.

2)Add in 1 chopped sweet potato and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.

3)Add in your spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt and pepper) to taste.

4)Add in one can of diced tomatoes, two cans of black beans rinsed and drained, and two cups of water.

5)Let your chili simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6)Serve with avocado and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese.

7) Enjoy!

Butternut Squash and Goat Cheese Pasta (Serves 4 people):

Ingredients:

1 box of your choice of pasta (use chickpea pasta for some extra protein!)
1 shallot diced
2 cloves of garlic minced
4 cups of butternut squash peeled and diced
1 log goat cheese (2 oz)
½ cup of pistachios finely chopped
2 cups pasta water
Cinnamon, salt and pepper

Recipe:

1)Pre-heat your oven to 400F.

2)Place your butternut squash onto a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, salt and pepper to taste.

3)Once preheated, place your butternut squash into the oven for about 35 minutes. Be sure to give it a toss about halfway through.

4)While your squash is cooking, sauté 1 shallot on medium low heat until translucent in color and bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

5)Once the onion is translucent in color, add in your minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes.

6)Cook your pasta according to the package. Don’t forget to reserve about 2 cups of pasta water for the sauce!

7)Add in the goat cheese and 1 cup of pasta water to your shallots and garlic, whisking until the sauce is creamy.

8)Add in your cooked pasta, butternut squash, and the rest of your reserved pasta water. Toss gently.

9)Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan and finely chopped pistachios on top.

10)Enjoy!

Chocolate Chickpea Brownies

Ingredients:
1 can chickpeas drained and rinsed
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/3 cup almond flour
3 tablespoons apple sauce
3 tablespoons almond butter
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 pinch of salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
½ cup sugar
½ cup chocolate chips

Recipe:

1)Grease an 8-inch pan and preheat your oven to 330F.

2)Blend all ingredients in a food processor or blender until the mixture is completely smooth.

3)Add the mixture into your greased ban and sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top.

4)Bake for 15 minutes, then chill for 12 hours in the fridge.

5)Slice into squares and enjoy!