Small Possibilities

The holidays are a time to gather around the table, savoring meals that bring warmth and joy. For me, the flavors of the season aren’t just about tradition—they’re about connection, slowing down, and embracing the small, meaningful moments that make this time of year so special. These 5 holiday recipes are simple, nostalgic, and crafted with mindfulness in mind, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy gathering.

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1. Cozy Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

A creamy, warming soup that balances sweet and savory flavors. Perfect as a starter or a light lunch during holiday prep.

This creamy, warming soup is like a hug in a bowl—balancing the sweet notes of roasted apples with the earthy richness of butternut squash. Growing up, I remember my mom always had something warm ready to eat during long afternoons of decorating or holiday prep, and this soup reminds me of those moments. There’s something so grounding about taking the time to roast the squash and apples, letting the kitchen fill with their sweet aroma. It’s not just a dish; it’s a pause in the busy holiday chaos, a moment to breathe and savor. Perfect as a starter or a light lunch, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread and the laughter of loved ones.

Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
– 2 medium apples (like Gala or Honeycrisp), peeled and cubed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional garnish: roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of coconut cream

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash and apples with olive oil, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion in olive oil until translucent. Add the roasted squash and apples, along with the vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a countertop blender. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Serve warm, garnished with roasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of coconut cream for an extra festive touch.

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2. Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

A vibrant side dish that adds color and a sweet-tangy flavor to your table.

Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but in our house, they’re a holiday favorite. When roasted and drizzled with maple syrup, they transform into golden, caramelized bites of heaven. Adding cranberries gives this dish a festive pop of color and a tangy twist that balances the sweetness. I still remember bringing this dish to a Friendsgiving potluck a few years ago—it was a last-minute addition, and I wasn’t sure how it would go over. To my surprise, even the “I hate Brussels sprouts” crowd couldn’t resist coming back for seconds. Now, this recipe has become a tradition, and every time I make it, I think of that night and the joy of sharing food with friends.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1/2 cup fresh or dried cranberries
– 3 tablespoons maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20–25 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Drizzle over the Brussels sprouts and add cranberries during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
3. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

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3. Herb and Garlic Mashed Sweet Potatoes

A comforting alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, packed with flavor and nutrients.

Mashed sweet potatoes are one of those dishes that feel like home—a comforting, wholesome side that’s always welcome at the table. Adding fresh herbs and garlic elevates them from simple to spectacular. One Christmas, I decided to skip the usual marshmallow-topped sweet potatoes my family loved and made these instead. At first, everyone was skeptical. But by the end of dinner, the bowl was empty, and I had multiple family members asking for the recipe. It’s funny how something so simple—sweet potatoes mashed with butter, garlic, and thyme—can steal the show. Now, they’ve become a staple at our holiday gatherings, and every time I make them, I’m reminded of how small changes can make a big impact.

Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme or rosemary, chopped
– 1/2 cup milk or plant-based milk
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Boil sweet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
2. In a small pan, melt butter (or heat olive oil) and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add fresh herbs and stir.
3. Mash the sweet potatoes, adding the butter mixture and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a festive touch.

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4. Rustic Stuffing with Sourdough and Mushrooms

Hearty, savory, and full of earthy flavors, this stuffing is a cozy addition to any holiday meal.

There’s something deeply nostalgic about the smell of stuffing baking in the oven. It instantly transports me to my grandma’s kitchen, where the air was always filled with the scent of herbs and bread as she prepared her holiday feast. This version combines crusty sourdough bread with earthy mushrooms for a rustic twist on the classic. I love how the mushrooms add a richness that pairs so well with the savory herbs, creating a dish that feels both traditional and fresh. One year, I made this stuffing for my first solo-hosted Friendsgiving, and I was so nervous about getting it right. When everyone went back for seconds, I knew I had found a keeper. Now, it’s a recipe I revisit every year, not just for its flavor but for the memories it carries.

Ingredients:
– 1 loaf sourdough bread, cut into 1-inch cubes and lightly toasted
– 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (like cremini or shiitake)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter or olive oil
– 2 teaspoons dried sage
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large pan, melt butter and sauté onion, celery, and mushrooms until softened. Add sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with the vegetable mixture. Gradually stir in the broth until the bread is moistened but not soggy.
3. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden and crisp.

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5. Spiced Pear and Ginger Crumble

A cozy dessert with the warm flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and sweet pears. Perfect for sharing around the fire.

There’s no better way to end a holiday meal than with a warm, spiced dessert, and this pear crumble hits all the right notes. The pears become tender and caramelized, while the ginger adds just the right amount of zing to keep things interesting. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent without being too heavy—a mindful choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the sweet side of the season without overindulging. I remember swapping out the usual pie for this crumble one Thanksgiving. At first, my family was hesitant—where’s the crust?—but by the end of the night, there wasn’t a single bite left in the dish. Now, it’s a favorite request, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of that first attempt and the way traditions can evolve into something even better.

Ingredients:
– 6 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour (or all-purpose flour)
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold butter or coconut oil

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss the pear slices with ginger, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, and butter, mixing with your fingers until crumbly. Sprinkle over the pears.
3. Bake for 30–35 minutes until the topping is golden and the pears are bubbling.
4. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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Create a Holiday Table Full of Joy and Intention

These comforting holiday recipes bring together the nostalgia of the season with a mindful approach to cooking and eating. Whether you’re ladling out warm bowls of butternut squash soup, sharing a vibrant dish of maple-glazed Brussels sprouts, or indulging in a spiced pear crumble, each dish celebrates the warmth and joy of gathering with loved ones.

Let’s make this holiday season about savoring the moments—not just the meals. Which recipe will you try first? Share your creations on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram so I can see your holiday table! And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more cozy recipes and mindful holiday inspiration.

Here’s to a season filled with connection, comfort, and intentional cooking. Happy holidays! 🎄✨

Cas Lin

Small Possibilities

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