This year, the first day of winter is falling on Saturday, December 21, winter solstice aka the shortest day of the year. Even though winter is a few weeks away, its time to start your holiday meal prep for the colder months. Meals that are not just comforting but also packed with nutrients to boost immunity and keep energy levels high. With shorter days and plummeting temperatures, it’s tempting to reach for indulgent comfort foods, but winter provides a unique opportunity to embrace seasonal ingredients and create dishes that balance flavor with health. From hearty soups loaded with seasonal vegetables to protein-packed stews that warm you from the inside out, healthy winter recipes can be both satisfying and nutritious. Seasonal produce like butternut squash, kale, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes are not only rich in vitamins but also versatile for creating wholesome meals. Incorporating these into your daily diet can help combat winter fatigue and keep your immune system strong against seasonal illnesses. Here are 2 delicious and very healthy recipes that you can indulge in while cosying up in bed, shared by Chef Manish Kashyap, Corp’ Chef of The Cottage Café by La Polo. Many of these ingredients can be locally sourced, ensuring freshness while supporting sustainable farming practices. With the right balance of lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, your winter menu can transform into a celebration of both taste and wellness.Winter Citrus & Roasted Vegetable SaladThis vibrant winter breakfast salad is packed with warm roasted vegetables, citrus fruits, nuts, and a touch of sweetness. It’s hearty enough for a morning meal and full of winter flavours.Ingredients:Salad:1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved1 small beet, peeled and diced1 tablespoon olive oilSalt and pepper, to taste1 cup arugula or mixed greens1 blood orange, peeled and segmented1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented1/4 cup pomegranate seeds1/4 cup walnuts or pecans, toasted1/4 avocado, sliced (optional)Dressing:1 tablespoon fresh orange juice1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey2 tablespoons olive oilSalt and pepper, to tasteInstructions:Roast the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced sweet potato, Brussels sprouts, and beet on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly crispy on the edges. Allow to cool slightly.Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, maple syrup, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the greens, roasted vegetables, orange and grapefruit segments, pomegranate seeds, and nuts. Drizzle with the dressing and toss gently.Serve: Garnish with avocado slices if desired. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!This salad is refreshing yet filling, with a balance of sweet and savoury flavours perfect for winter mornings.Warm Cinnamon OatmealIngredients:1 cup rolled oats2 cups milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)1 tbsp. honey or maple syrup1/2 tsp cinnamon1/4 tsp nutmeg1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds work well)1/4 cup dried fruit (like raisins or cranberries)Fresh fruit for topping (sliced banana or apple work well)A pinch of saltInstructions:Warm the oats: In a medium saucepan, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Add the oats, a pinch of salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.Simmer: Reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and soft.Sweeten: Stir in honey or maple syrup for sweetness, adjusting to taste.Top and Serve: Pour the oatmeal into a bowl and top with chopped nuts, dried fruit, and fresh fruit slices.This breakfast is warm, filling, and packed with nutrients, perfect for a winter morning.