The holidays usually mean potatoes loaded with cream, cookies covered in icing, meats laden with rich sauces, and all the sugary cocktails you can imagine — but they don't have to. When you want to keep your belt from needing a few extra notches come midnight, try one of these vegan, Paleo, gluten-free, or low-cal mains, sides, and desserts. Your friends and family (and Santa) will thank you.
Get the recipe: vegan pomegranate chocolate chip oatmeal cookies
Get the recipe: almond and coconut macaroons
Get the recipe: Paleo quiche with a grain-free crust
Get the recipe: Paleo sausage, apple, and butternut squash stuffing
Get the recipe: sautéed steaks with wilted arugula
Get the recipe: squash, sweet potato, carrot, and white bean soup
Get the recipe: pear, pomegranate, and spinach salad
Get the recipe: balsamic marinated steak bites with kale
Get the recipe: cranberry raison brussels sprouts