Healthy items you can add to your wedding party menu

As couples start planning their dream wedding, considerations often centre around venues, attire, guest list and of course, the culinary experience. While the spread has got to be indulgent and fun, there is no harm in including nutrient-rich choices in the mix. It will not only delights the taste buds of your guests but also contribute to their well-being.

Start the celebration with a vibrant array of appetizers. Opt for colorful vegetable platters accompanied by hummus or guacamole, providing a healthy alternative to traditional pre-meal nibbles. Incorporate lean proteins like grilled chicken skewers or seafood to satiate appetites while offering a nutritious boost.

Our favourite: Quinoa-Stuffed Mini Peppers

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa, cooked
12 mini bell peppers, assorted colors
1 cup black beans, cooked
1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 teaspoon cumin
Juice of 2 limes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the mini peppers and remove the seeds.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked quinoa, black beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each mini pepper with the quinoa mixture.
5. Place the stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the peppers are tender.

When it comes to the main course, consider a well-balanced selection. A variety of salads with leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can serve as refreshing options. Include a diverse range of protein sources such as grilled fish, lean meats, or plant-based alternatives, catering to different dietary preferences.

Our favourite: Herb-Infused Salmon with Roasted Vegetables

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound baby potatoes, halved
1 pound asparagus, trimmed
1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle the salmon with olive oil and sprinkle with dill, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, toss the baby potatoes and asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange the vegetables around the salmon on the baking sheet.
6. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the salmon before serving.

For side dishes, embrace the bounty of seasonal vegetables. Roasted or grilled vegetables, quinoa, and sweet potato dishes not only add colour to the plate but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. Infuse creativity into your sides to make them both visually appealing and delicious.

Desserts can be indulgent yet health-conscious. Opt for fruit-based options like a berry tart or a refreshing sorbet. Alternatively, consider a wedding cake with reduced sugar content or explore trendy alternatives like avocado chocolate mousse. These choices allow for a sweet celebration without compromising on nutrition.

Our favourite: Berry Bliss Parfait

Ingredients:
2 cups Greek yogurt
1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup granola

Instructions:

1. In serving glasses, layer Greek yogurt, mixed berries, honey, and granola.
2. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, ending with a dollop of Greek yogurt on top.
3. Garnish with additional berries and a drizzle of honey.

Hydration plays a crucial role in any celebration. Elevate your beverage offerings with infused water stations featuring herbs and fruits. Provide options like green tea or herbal blends, promoting both hydration and wellness.

Incorporate personalised touches into your wedding by gifting guests with small packages of nutrient-rich snacks. From trail mix to dried fruit, these tokens not only express gratitude but also provide a wholesome treat for later.

Crafting a nutrient-rich wedding menu not only aligns with modern wellness trends but also reflects a commitment to the health and happiness of your loved ones. As you embark on this culinary journey, savour the joy of creating a celebration that nourishes both hearts and bodies, making your wedding a truly memorable and fulfilling experience for all.

Enjoy the feast and the start of a beautiful journey together!

Inputs by Dr. Archana Batra, Nutritionist, Physiotherapist, and Certified diabetes educator, and Eshanka Wahi Culinary nutritionist, Holistic wellness coach, and founder of Eat Clean with Eshanka