Leave it to America to turn a religious holiday into an all-day glut of alcohol and bar food. Green beer and hot wings may taste good at the moment, but they won’t feel good tomorrow, and they certainly don’t have much to do with Irish culture.
Pay homage to the people and the country of Ireland with some healthful, wholesome and filling dishes that can still feel like a St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Crock-Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage
The slow cooker does all the work in this simple, savory recipe, which uses a fat-trimmed round of real corned beef and a cooking method that doesn’t rob the cabbage of its nutrients. Keep the lid on, and you’ll keep down that cabbage-y smell, too.
This dish takes the humble root vegetable and turns it into something special. With only a few ingredients, the natural sugars of the turnips are brought out. The sweetness of the side dish is a nice contrast to the savory saltiness of the corned beef, too.
Potatoes don’t have to be drowning in butter and fat to taste good: they just have to be seasoned and cooked well. Fresh herbs enhance the flavors in this simple root vegetable dish that’s hot and wholesome and goes with just about anything.
Hot Broccoli-Cheese Dip
While it’s not specifically Irish, this low-fat dip is decidely green, and the broccoli makes sure you’ll get to eat your greens, as well. Every holiday deserves a party dish, and this is one you can share with friends, even if they’re on a diet. Don't be turned off by the "low fat" designation. This dip is plenty thick and rich-tasting.
No one will deny you a beer or two on St. Patrick’s day, but drink in moderation if you must. Keep the calories down by consulting Examiner’s list of the highest calorie beers, and choose accordingly
Have a happy and healthy St. Patrick’s Day.
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