Let’s be honest – healthy eating is having a major moment right now. Whether it’s the rise of clean eating, plant-based diets, or just a general shift toward mindful living. People are finally starting to make more health-conscious and reasonable food choices. And I’m here for it!
Now, I’m not a certified nutritionist or a dietitian. I’m just a passionate foodie with a soft spot for comfort food and a growing interest in wellness. Over the years, I’ve experimented with different ingredients and recipes. I’ve found a few healthy staples that not only fuel my body but also satisfy my taste buds. These are foods I’ve personally tried, tested, and loved—especially as we head into the colder months.
For me, the “year-end” season starts in October. That’s when I start tweaking our family meals to include more energy-boosting, immunity-supporting, and nutrient-rich foods. And the best part? These foods are not just healthy—they’re delicious too.
So here it is—my list of Top 5 Healthy Foods that I swear by, along with why they’ve earned a permanent spot in my kitchen.
1. Spinach – The Underrated Superfood
Let’s start with the green hero of my kitchen: spinach. I feel like spinach doesn’t get the love it deserves. It’s often overshadowed by trendier greens like kale or arugula, but trust me—spinach is a nutritional powerhouse.
Every week, without fail, I pick up a big box of fresh baby spinach from Sam’s Club. It’s a staple in my fridge. I cook it Desi-style at least twice a week, and I also sneak it into Western dishes like pasta, pizza, and even smoothies.
Some of my favorite spinach-based dishes include:
- Dal Palak – a comforting combo of lentils and spinach
- Palak Fry with Peanuts – a quick stir-fry that’s full of flavor
- Palak Puri – deep-fried spinach bread that’s a hit at family brunches
Spinach is loaded with:
- Vitamin K, A, C, and E
- Manganese, folate, copper, and calcium
- B vitamins like B2 and B6
It’s one of those rare foods that’s low in calories but high in nutrients, making it perfect for winter meals when you want something hearty but healthy.
I buy the baby spinach box from Costco – Welcome to Costco Wholesale
2. Broccoli – The Sneaky Nutrient Booster
Okay, I’ll admit it—broccoli is not my favorite. Neither my husband nor I are big fans of its taste. But here’s the thing: it’s just too good for you to ignore. So I’ve found ways to sneak it into our meals without making it the star of the show.
I usually add small amounts of broccoli to:
- White sauce pasta
- Mixed veggie stir-fries
- Homemade fried rice
When it’s chopped finely and mixed with other flavors, it blends in beautifully and adds a subtle crunch and earthiness to the dish.
Nutritionally, broccoli is a rockstar:
- Rich in vitamins K and C
- A good source of folate, potassium, and fiber
- Contains powerful antioxidants that support immune health
It’s one of those veggies that grows on you—especially when you learn how to cook it right.
3. Avocado – Creamy, Dreamy, and Full of Goodness
If spinach is the hero and broccoli is the underdog, then avocado is the diva—and I mean that in the best way possible. I absolutely love avocados, not just for their health benefits but for their creamy, buttery texture.
My little one is a huge fan too. I often mash up avocado into a smooth purée for him, and it’s a great way to sneak in some serious nutrition. Fun fact: avocados have more potassium than bananas!
My favorite ways to enjoy avocado:
- Guacamole with nachos – my go-to lazy evening snack
- Avocado toast – topped with chili flakes and lemon juice
- Smoothies – for that extra creamy texture
Avocados are packed with:
- Vitamins C, E, K, and B-6
- Folate, magnesium, and healthy fats
- Fiber and antioxidants
They’re a bit on the pricier side, but I consider them a worthy indulgence—especially in winter when your skin and energy levels need a little extra love.
4. Chicken – My Forever Favorite
Ah, chicken. My comfort food, my protein fix, my all-time favorite. I’ve grown up eating chicken in all its glorious forms—thanks to my mom and mother-in-law, who are both culinary wizards when it comes to chicken recipes.
From spicy curries to grilled kebabs, chicken has always been a part of my food story. I’ve had the chance to try chicken dishes in three different countries, and while I’ve enjoyed them all, nothing beats the home-cooked magic of a mother’s recipe.
Why I love chicken:
- It’s carb-free and high in lean protein
- Rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium
- Contains niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin A
Whether it’s a quick stir-fry or a slow-cooked curry, chicken is my go-to when I want something filling, flavorful, and protein-packed.
5. Eggs – The Ultimate Morning Hero
If I had to crown one food as the MVP of my mornings, it would be eggs. They’re quick, versatile, and packed with nutrients. I call them my “convenient morning food” because they require minimal prep and deliver maximum satisfaction.
Some of my favorite egg dishes:
- Scrambled eggs with veggies
- Masala omelet with onions and chilies
- Boiled eggs with a sprinkle of chaat masala
Eggs are a complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. Most of the protein is in the egg white, while the yolk contains healthy fats and essential vitamins.
Nutritional highlights:
- Rich in selenium, vitamin D, B6, B12
- Good source of zinc, iron, and copper
- Affordable and easy to cook
They’re a staple in our household, especially during winter when we need that extra boost of energy and warmth in the mornings.
Final Thoughts: Healthy Can Be Delicious
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or complicated. With the right ingredients and a little creativity, you can whip up meals that are both nutritious and delicious. These five foods—spinach, broccoli, avocado, chicken, and eggs—are my winter wellness warriors. They keep me energized, satisfied, and feeling good from the inside out.
And the best part? They’re all family-friendly, easy to find, and versatile enough to fit into any cuisine—whether you’re cooking Desi-style or experimenting with global flavors.
So tell me—what’s your favorite winter delight? Do you have a go-to healthy food that you swear by? I’d love to hear your picks and maybe even try them out in my kitchen!
You can also checkout our – Culinary Quick Fixes: Speedy Solutions for Kitchen Conundrums – MaddyThinks
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