5 Rosh Hashana Dishes with a Healthy Side

poached pears

Much of the celebration surrounding the Jewish New Year, which begins Wednesday night, revolves around foods like the traditional apple dipped in honey, to signify a sweet new year. But there's plenty of more room at the feast.

Pomegranates are traditionally served during the holiday. The fruit, according to tradition, contains 613 perils (or seeds), which signify the number of commandments from the Old Testament.

What's a Jewish holiday without matzo ball soup? A homemade stock contributes many essential minerals (and helps everyone stay hydrated).

A fall favorite, butternut squash is an excellent source of beta-carotene, which helps promote vision and healthy skin. It's also brimming with the antioxidant vitamin C, energy-boosting vitamin B6 and folate and heart-healthy potassium.

The traditional fruit of the holiday can be enjoyed as part of a delicious gravy over turkey.

Finish the meal with seasonal pears flavored with vanilla and grapefruit zest. If you're keeping kosher (with a meat-based dinner), then top the pears with a nondairy whipped cream.

Toby Amidor, MS, RD, CDN, is a registered dietitian and consultant who specializes in food safety and culinary nutrition. She is the author of The Greek Yogurt Kitchen: More Than 130 Delicious, Healthy Recipes for Every Meal of the Day.

Next Up

20 Healthy Easter Side Dishes

Find healthy spring side dish recipes for serving at your Easter celebration.

10 Healthy Rosh Hashana Sides

Celebrate Rosh Hashana with these 10 light and delicious sides.

Healthy Rosh Hashana Menu Planner

Plan a healthy Rosh Hashana menu.

Rosh Hashanah Side Dishes

Scrambling to find creative sides for the Jewish New Year? Look no further. This collection includes fresh ideas and some lightened up classics.

Healthy Swaps: Side Dishes

Side dishes are supposed to be an accompaniment, but many favorites can jam in more calories than you want for an entire meal. Lighten up your plate with these healthy (but still delicious) substitutions.

7 Days of Healthy Side Dishes

Bored of the same-old steamed veggies? Spice your week up with these fun-tastic sides for fewer than 250 calories per serving

5 Fuss-Free Easter Side Dishes — Sensational Sides

After you pin down your master plan for your Easter ham or rack of lamb, feast your eyes on extra-easy side dishes that won't consume your Easter Sunday.

Robin's Healthy Take: 5-Ingredient Memorial Day Sides

Five ingredients is all you need to make each of Robin's easy, flavorful Memorial Day side dish recipes.