Top 5 Nutritious Recipes from 2016 on 80 Twenty Nutrition

A new year is here, and I always take this time to reflect on the past twelve months — what went well, what didn’t, and what goals I want to set for the year ahead. I’m so grateful for each of you who tried my recipes, shared them with friends and family, and supported this blog in so many ways. Thank you for helping make 80 Twenty Nutrition a success. Below is a countdown of the five most popular healthy recipes on the blog from 2016.

5 Best Healthy Recipes of 2016

These five recipes were the most-visited recipe pages last year. If you missed any of them, now’s a great time to catch up on 2016’s most-loved healthy dishes.

#5: Wild Blueberry Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Smoothie

(vegan, paleo, pegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, low calorie)

Turmeric was a big trend in 2016, and this creative smoothie put that golden spice to good use. Frozen wild blueberries, brewed green tea, turmeric and a hint of red pepper flakes combine for an antioxidant- and anti-inflammatory boost. Cashews add a creamy texture plus plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats to keep you satisfied through a busy morning.

More turmeric-inspired recipes:

Roasted Cauliflower Celery Root Soup with Chickpeas and Turmeric

(vegan, gluten-free, slow carb, dairy-free)

Healthy and Simple Curry Chicken

(gluten-free, slow carb)

Paleo Granola with Turmeric and Hemp Hearts

(paleo, vegan, pegan, gluten-free, low carb, ketogenic, dairy-free)

Sumac Tempeh with Braised Cauliflower

(vegan, gluten-free, low carb, ketogenic, dairy-free)

#4: Lentil Coconut Curry with Brown Basmati Rice

(vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, slow carb)

I love transforming favorite takeout dishes into healthier versions you can make at home. This lentil coconut curry showcases warm Indian spices and creamy coconut milk for rich flavor without the takeout price. It’s easy to prepare on the stovetop or in a slow cooker and makes a comforting, nutrient-dense meal that often tastes even better than what you’d order in a restaurant.

#3: Balsamic Baked Chicken Breasts

(paleo, low carb, ketogenic, gluten-free, dairy-free, low calorie)

Meal prep was a major trend in 2016, and for good reason: cooking large batches of protein, whole grains and vegetables saves time and helps you eat well during a busy week. These balsamic baked chicken breasts are perfect for batch cooking — juicy, flavorful, and versatile. Bake a few at once to have ready-to-use protein for salads, sandwiches, soups, stir-fries and more. Having this staple on hand makes healthy eating simple and convenient.

#2: No-Bake Lentil Energy Bars

(vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free)

Energy bars and snack bites were among the most-search recipe types in 2016 — everyone loves a portable, nutritious snack. These no-bake lentil energy bars are soft and brownie-like but contain no added refined sugar. I added lentils as a sneaky way to boost fiber and plant protein, so these bars keep you fuller longer while delivering lots of nutrients. They’re simple to make and travel-friendly for busy days.

And now, the most popular recipe of 2016…

#1: Skinny Zucchini Lasagna

(gluten-free, low carb, ketogenic, low calorie)

By popular demand, the top recipe of the year is my gooey, satisfying Skinny Zucchini Lasagna. Replacing traditional pasta with thin zucchini slices transforms this comfort food classic into a lower-carb, gluten-free favorite. I also swap out higher-fat ingredients for lean ground chicken and low-fat cottage cheese to keep the dish lighter while still delivering the familiar lasagna flavors.

This version packs in vegetables and lean protein so you can enjoy a rich, comforting meal that supports your health goals. If you haven’t tried the Skinny Zucchini Lasagna yet, now’s the perfect time.

There you have it — the five most popular healthy recipes from 80 Twenty Nutrition in 2016. What was your favorite recipe of the year? Which food trends would you like to see carried into 2017? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Thank you again for your support and enthusiasm this past year. I’m excited to share more healthy ideas and recipes with you — feel free to tell me what you’d like to see on 80 Twenty Nutrition this year!