Top 10 Holi Recipes for Sweets & Snacks
Holi without colours is incomplete; and so is Holi without delicious treats! This festival of colours is a time of joy, laughter, and togetherness! It’s that magical time of the year when friends and family come together to splash vibrant colours, dance to lively tunes, and, of course, indulge in delicious festive treats.
But while Holi snacks are undeniably tempting, they often come loaded with sugar, refined flour, and excessive oil. What if you could enjoy all the festive flavors guilt-free? Yes, you heard that right! This year, celebrate Holi the healthy way with these 10 scrumptious snacks that keep your energy levels high without compromising on taste or nutrition.
1. Spiced Roasted Chickpeas
Ditch the deep-fried snacks and try Spiced Roasted Chickpeas! These crispy, crunchy bites are rich in protein and fiber, making them a perfect guilt-free munchie for Holi celebrations. Not only are they deliciously crunchy, but they also provide a slow-releasing energy boost, keeping you active throughout the festivities. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and can be customized with a variety of spices to suit your taste preferences. Whether you like them mildly spiced or with a fiery kick, these chickpeas make for a satisfying and healthy snack option.
How to Make It:
Toss boiled chickpeas with olive oil, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Roast in the oven until golden brown and crunchy. Enjoy a delicious, savory snack without the extra oil!
2. Baked Gujiya
No Holi is complete without gujiya! But instead of the deep-fried version, why not bake them this year? This way, you can enjoy the delightful crunch of gujiya without any guilt. Plus, making them at home allows you to experiment with innovative fillings like dates and nuts, figs and coconut, or even a chocolate-infused version for a modern twist on this traditional delight!
Healthy Twist:
Use a stuffing made of dry fruits, nuts, and coconut for added nutrition.
Brush them with ghee before baking for a delicious, golden crust.
3. True Elements Thandai Mix
Thandai is a Holi staple, but most versions are loaded with sugar. True Elements Thandai Mix is a healthier alternative with 31.74% less sugar than regular thandai. It’s crafted with nuts like almonds, cashews and millets like jowar flour offering a deliciously refreshing festive drink.
Why Choose True Elements Thandai Mix?
Lower sugar content without compromising on taste
Packed with nuts, millets, and aromatic spices for added nutrition
Easy to prepare; just mix with milk and enjoy!
4. Baked Mathri
Mathri is another classic Holi snack, but its deep-fried version can be quite heavy. A baked version made with whole wheat flour, methi, and a dash of rock salt is just as crispy and flavourful but without the added calories. Pair it with a side of homemade mint chutney or a tangy yogurt dip for an extra burst of flavor. These baked mathris stay fresh for days, making them an excellent make-ahead snack for Holi celebrations.
Pro Tip:
Pair it with homemade mint chutney for an extra burst of flavour.
5. Chia Seed Fruit Kheer
Instead of a traditional rice kheer, why not try a Chia Seed Fruit Kheer this holi? Chia seeds are packed with omega-3s, fibre, and protein, making them an excellent superfood to include in your holi menu. Not only does this version of kheer have a delightful texture, but it also adds a refreshing twist to the traditional dessert. Plus, chia seeds help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer, making this dessert a nutritious and satisfying choice for Holi celebrations.
How to Prepare:
Soak chia seeds in almond milk, add dates for sweetness, and top with fresh fruits like mangoes and pomegranates.
6. Makhana (Fox Nuts) Chaat
Makhanas are a fantastic, low-calorie alternative to fried snacks, packed with protein and essential minerals. A spicy makhana chaat loaded with tomatoes, onions, green chilies, and a tangy squeeze of lemon makes for a crunchy, nutritious treat that’s perfect for Holi. You can also add roasted peanuts or pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of flavour and texture. Not only is this snack light and wholesome, but it also keeps you energized throughout the festivities without weighing you down.
Health Benefits:
Rich in antioxidants
Supports blood sugar management
High in protein and fibre
7. Oats and Jaggery Laddoos
Laddoos don’t have to be loaded with refined sugar! This Oats and Jaggery Laddoo is made with roasted rolled oats, sesame seeds, jaggery, and a hint of cardamom for a healthy and satisfying sweet treat. These laddoos are perfect for festive snacking, offering a nourishing and delicious way to celebrate without compromising on health. Plus, they are super easy to make and can be stored for days, making them a convenient, wholesome treat for Holi.
Why You'll Love It:
No refined sugar
High in fibre and good fats
Perfect for energy-boosting festive snacking
8. Protein-Rich Besan Chilla
A savory option for Holi celebrations is a delicious, protein-packed besan chilla. Made with gram flour, chopped vegetables, and spices, these pancakes are light yet filling keeping you energized throughout your celebrations. You can enhance the flavour by adding finely chopped onions, tomatoes, and green chilies, along with a pinch of turmeric and cumin for an extra health boost. Serve it hot with a side of tangy mint-coriander chutney or a dollop of fresh yogurt for a refreshing and satisfying holi treat.
Bonus Tip:
Serve with a fresh mint and coriander chutney for a refreshing twist.
9. Dates and Nuts Energy Bars
Instead of indulging in sugar-loaded sweets, opt for homemade energy bars made with dates, nuts, and seeds. These bars are naturally sweet, rich in fibre, and provide sustained energy for all your Holi festivities.
How to Make It:
Blend together dates, almonds, cashews, flaxseeds, and cocoa powder for a naturally sweet, nutrient-dense bar.
10. Greek Yogurt Fruit Dip with Honey
Ditch calorie-heavy dips and opt for a Greek yogurt fruit dip sweetened with honey this holi. Pair it with fresh strawberries, grapes, and banana slices for a light yet indulgent dessert.
Why It's a Great Choice:
High in protein
Rich in probiotics
Naturally sweet and refreshing
Conclusion
This Holi, enjoy the festival without feeling guilty! By making small but smart changes to your festive snacking, you can indulge in mouthwatering treats while staying true to your health goals. So go ahead, play with colours, dance to your favorite songs, and treat yourself to these healthy yet delightful Holi snacks.
Celebrate a guilt-free Holi this year! Have a safe, healthy and happy Holi!
