Soup makes a great lunch or light dinner, but many prepared soups contain excess calories, sodium, and fat. When you make soup at home, you control the ingredients and can ensure that you have a healthy meal.

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Quinoa is a whole grain that's often served as a savory dish, but its nutty flavor goes well with sweet orange and honey too. Quinoa contains high-quality protein with all nine essential amino acids. The orange and the cranberries add both fiber and vitamin C.

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These vegetarian burgers are packed with hearty black-eyed peas, which provide fiber, protein, and B vitamins. The kale adds a burst of flavor and even more nutrition. Kale contains alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid from plants, and it is a source of vitamins A, C, and K.

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Air-popped popcorn makes a filling, whole-grain snack. This version is dressed up with the rich flavors of garlic, rosemary, and a light sprinkle of salt.

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Oatmeal provides dietary fiber that helps to reduce cholesterol. Making your own oatmeal with rolled oats takes just a few minutes and lets you avoid the instant versions, which can be full of artificial flavorings, preservatives, and refined sugar.

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Trade your mashed white potatoes for a more creative side dish made with nutrient-rich root vegetables. This recipe uses parsnips and white sweet potatoes that have been roasted to bring out their deep, caramelized flavors. A little heart-healthy olive oil cuts saturated fat, and fresh herbs reduce the need for excess salt.

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This dip allows you to serve a healthier option at holiday parties. It is loaded with beans that provide plant-based protein and fiber. The nuts and olive oil add heart-healthy fats. It's a delicious snack served with whole-grain crackers or vegetables.

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Meringue cookies are a lighter option for a sweet treat. While they do contain sugar, they are made without butter and egg yolks, which eliminates saturated fat and cholesterol. This version has festive holiday spices added.

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Your favorite comfort foods can be made healthier when you cook them at home. Ground turkey breast is used in this recipe for a leaner source of protein with less saturated fat than traditional meatballs. Homemade sauce and polenta let you cut the sodium content nearly in half compared to other versions.

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Stuffing is a traditional holiday dish that is often loaded with refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats. This version has the familiar flavors but replaces some of the bread with lower-calorie, protein-rich mushrooms and brown rice for extra fiber.

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